07/09/2026
Celebrating Shannon’s achievement!
We are proud to share that Shannon has been selected as a finalist in this year’s IHC Photography Awards. Our team has participated in the awards since they began, and Shannon is the second finalist from Enrich+ during the three years.
The Photography group is facilitated by staff member Margaret, who has a great interest of photography herself. Shannon has been a valued member of our Photography Group for many years, developing her knowledge and confidence through learning about camera use, photography techniques, angles, and different genres. The programme also provides a valuable opportunity to develop broader life skills, including communication, decision making, expressing personal preferences, and learning how to interact and participate alongside others.
This year, during a photography session at War Memorial Park in Te Awamutu, Shannon patiently waited for the right moment to capture a monarch butterfly in flight. She then worked alongside staff to review her photographs, select her preferred image, and learn to independently use the printing kiosk at Warehouse Stationery, requiring only minimal support. Shannon also made her own decision to give the photograph a Māori title, Purerehu Atahua, drawing on her understanding of Māori culture and the natural environment developed through her wider participation in our programmes. Shannon was thrilled to learn that her photograph had been selected as a finalist.
Her achievement is a wonderful reflection of the skills, confidence, choice, and participation that our programmes aim to support. Congratulations Shannon, your mahi and dedication have truly paid off! 👏
To see the other finalists and people's choice please go to:
www.ihc.org.nz/ctmvote
