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Two successful college balls were topped off by an initiative that helped around 25 students attend the evenings who couldn’t have otherwise afforded to go.
Both Mahurangi College and Rodney College held their balls on July 28 at the Crowne Plaza Auckland and Stables Restaurant in Matakana.
The Cinderella Project was inspired by Rodney student Tui McLeod and supported by the Healing
Through Arts and Action Trust, and Te Waka Youth.
Its purpose was to collect donated dresses, make-up and money to buy ball tickets for those who might have otherwise struggled to meet the costs.
Te Waka Youth service manager Melanie Torkington says there was a great response to the call for help.
“We had over 35 amazing dresses donated, over $500 worth of make-up and over $350 to fund student tickets,” Melanie says.
“We held a free boutique at Rodney College where students could pick up items in exchange for one good deed they would do in the community.”
Te Waka Youth also hosted a pre-ball event.
Tui McLeod was given a Wahine Toa Award by Te Waka Youth for her diligence in starting the project.
Both Mahurangi College head girl Liana Sykes and Rodney College social action leader Connor Goodall say their respective events ran just as planned.
“The feedback was all really positive and there is nothing we would change looking back,” Liana says.
Students brought a lot of energy to the Mahurangi College ball at Crowne Plaza Auckland. Photo, Cactus Photography.
Rodney’s best couple went to Nathan Leigh-Malofy (left) and Loren Adams.
Mahurangi student Sander Stam entertained on the night with his saxophone as part of the school band The Mangroves.
