Caring Alatana wins high praise

Lakeview School student Alatana Whanau has been been recognised for her generous work with Kandahar House residents in region-wide youth awards.

The Pride Awards, held at Wellington Town Hall on Saturday, celebrate the achievements of children and young people aged 5-17 in categories ranging from academic to overcoming adversity.

Alatana was one of 13 winners, and won the Community First category for the work she did to fundraise for activities for Kandahar House's residents and the time spent with residents.

She struck up an unusual friendship with Dutch-speaking Saartje Vermeer after a number of Lakeview School students started visiting them in their lunch hour.

Alatana said there were "lots and lots and lots" of people at Wellington Town Hall to see her collect her award and certificate, including her mum Gaylene Whanau.

"At first I was shocked and then I was happy," said Alatana.

She said it was a bit scary going up on stage in front of the large audience, but her mum was proud of her and the award will be going in the living room.

"It's just so amazing,' said Gaylene. "It's all of her own accord, no one ever asked her to do it. It's just blown me away what she's doing."

Last term, with Year 6 students Nathan Ballissie and Seni Iasona, Alatana raised money for the dementia unit because they wanted to see residents happier and having more to do.

By holding sausage sizzles they raised $144.75 for a cuttlebug machine used for craft activities.

The Pride Awards were founded by Wellington man Moses Ariama, who said it is important to celebrate young people's successes in every field.

"When young people have pride in themselves they can go on to achieve anything. They become responsible citizens instead of falling into bad behaviours."