Earlier this year, Variety, The Children’s Charity, surveyed 200 children living in hardship across New Zealand.
Among the aspiring doctors, engineers and athletes, 11-year-old Noah’s answer was one the charity hadn’t heard before: he wanted to own a PAK’nSAVE.
With support from Variety, Noah has been able to access opportunities that have helped him do well, such as attending school camp, participating in sports, and starting the school year with the supplies he needs.
Despite facing early health challenges, including surgery as an infant that left him with limited vision in one eye, Noah approaches life with resilience and positivity.
Recently, Noah had the chance to step into his dream during a special visit to PAK’nSAVE Papakura. There, he met the store owner, Peter Lynch, went behind the scenes at a busy supermarket, and even served customers at the checkout.
The experience brought his ambitions to life, offering a glimpse of what his future could hold, culminating in a job offer for Noah when he turns 16.
Noah’s story is a reminder that communities do more than support daily needs; they create the conditions for ambition, resilience, and growth. It highlights the impact that strong communities can have on young people’s futures.
By investing in potential, providing opportunities, and working together, individuals and organisations can help create pathways to success.
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