News from the NZDSA
A selection of articles, stories and updates from the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association
News, Articles & Stories
NZDSA Fortnightly Enews
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New Zealand Down Syndrome Association
We are the National organisation representing the Down Syndrome community in New Zealand.
We are sure you all probably know Luka Willems, the Christchurch swimmer who’s redefining what’s possible, both in and out of the pool! ![]()
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From overcoming early challenges to becoming a medal-winning athlete and a beloved figure in his community, Luka’s journey is all about courage, joy, and chasing big dreams. Whether he’s making waves at international competitions, sharing his life and recipes on YouTube, or brightening days with his signature grin, Luka proves there are no limits to what you can achieve. ![]()
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Dive into his inspiring story and discover why he’s so much more than just a swimmer in the last edition of CHAT 21, free for everyone to read here:![]()
nzdsa.org.nz/chat-21-spring-2025/
Time to get creative!! IHC New Zealands art awards are coming up in May, see full details below!🎨 Get ready for the 2026 IHC Art Awards! 🎨![]()
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Entries open at 9am on Friday 1 May 2026. Now is the perfect time to start preparing your artwork.![]()
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Open to artists across New Zealand aged 13 and over with an intellectual disability or intellectual disability and autism, the IHC Art Awards provide a platform to showcase creativity, gain recognition, have voices heard, and sell artwork.![]()
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Start creating, plan your entry, and get ready to submit in May.![]()
Find out more at www.ihc.org.nz/art-awards
How good is George and his epic unicycle journey around Aotearoa 🚲🇳🇿![]()
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George is an incredible 19-year-old from New Plymouth who’s set off on a dream adventure: unicycling around the entire coastline of New Zealand to raise funds and awareness for the NZDSA.![]()
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As he passed through Auckland, CHAT 21 editor Maddie caught up with George to say hello, hear how the ride is going, and check in on the mission. He was buzzing and it’s pretty hard not to feel inspired by his energy and determination.![]()
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George’s ride is a clockwise coastal lap of both the North and South Islands, bringing together his love of cycling, adventure, and doing something meaningful for a cause close to his heart.![]()
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We’ll keep sharing photos and updates along the way — and if George rolls through your neighbourhood, get out and give him a wave (or a cheer)!![]()
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Want to follow along or donate? Here are the links:![]()
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Instagram: @george.harrrison![]()
Live tracker: live.garmin.com/Track_george06![]()
Donate: www.justgiving.com/page/george-harrison-1769642425300
Join us next week for a special online session to recognise International World Autism Awareness Day.![]()
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This year’s theme is “Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value.”![]()
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This session is for parents and whānau supporting people with Down syndrome and autism. It is an opportunity to connect, share experiences, learn from one another, and be part of a supportive and understanding space.![]()
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Please follow this link to respond:![]()
www.facebook.com/share/1DY6R7csrf/