Jacob Dombroski is an incredibly talented young man. James Webber from the Wellington Down Syndrome Association wrote the following nomination to describe Jacob’s achievements.
Jacob is well known in the Wellington region and nationally.
He has a passion for people with extra needs and is keen to advocate for people at a Government level.
Jacob is an actor, dancer, musician and basketball player amongst other talents.
I first met Jacob in 2016 when he was performing in a show that he had written, choreographed and performed, BigJStylez.
My eldest son, sister and I watched Jacob perform. It gave us such hope and joy and made the future of my youngest son seem much brighter amongst all the medical issues and fears for the future.
Jacob went on to win many awards for his show and this led to other acting, dancing and performance opportunities.
Jacob Domboski with Governor General Dame Patsy Reddy, right, and NZDSA national executive Zandra Vaccarino.
His acting career became viral when he did a short stint acting on Shortland Street as Winston Kimiora. I’m sure this helped to advocate for people who were born with Down syndrome.
His acting must have been fabulous as he was asked to act again as a barman on Shortland street. There have been many reviews about Jacob and his performance and one described him as “totally a performer who is going to connect to any audience”.
I believe this sums up Jacob well. He definitely connected with the audience when he was asked to speak at the Frances Clarke awards in Wellington in 2019.
During lockdown with Covid 19, Jacob contacted the WDSA chairperson, asking how he could help people with extra needs during this time.
He also created a workout video that he shared with others during COVID.
I don’t know all of Jacob’s story and journey however I am keen to learn more about this amazing young man who inspired me and my whanau when I had a little baby who was starting his journey.
The WDSA is blown away by Jacob’s talent, his empathy for others and his keenness to advocate for many different people.