A special interview series with people who are making a difference in Auckland's queer communities has been published online. PrideNZ.com's Making a Difference is a series about celebrating and promoting positive role models. "We wanted to highlight a diverse range of people that are having a positive effect on Auckland's queer communities" says PrideNZ.com administrator Gareth Watkins. "Participants didn't necessarily need to identify as queer - it was more about what they have, and are achieving in the queer community". Earlier this year the public was asked to nominate individuals. From that, eight people were selected to be interviewed about their background, the reasons behind why they want to make a difference and to highlight their achievements. "This series is about celebrating achievements and inspiring others to get involved in community activities" says Watkins. The eight interviewees are Jonathan Smith (talking about Queen of the Whole Universe), Miriam Saphira (Charlotte Museum), Katija Vlatkovich (Rainbow Youth), Johnny Givins (Queer Nation), Anne Speir (Hero), Aunty Wai Mason (NZ AIDS Foundation), Karen Ritchie (Cartier Trust) and Geoffrey Marshall (Heroic Gardens). The project was funded by the GABA Charitable Trust.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Thursday, 8th September 2011 - 3:34pm