St John
Heart's of St John
|
Photography, Story-telling
St John approached us to help them tell the stories of the people behind the brand. St John is involved with a vast array of community activities. In small towns, St John is the backbone that that touches many lives. The aim of the project was to look behind the brand, and the ambulances, and see the heart of St John. The heart which is the passion and commitment of countless volunteers who drive, rescue, phone, and fundraise for this outstanding charity. The content was displayed at an invite only event for major donors, giving them a valuable insight into the work of St John. |
|
Meet Abdul |
"I was totally overwhelmed with emotion at my graduation. I can remember the looks of relief and pride on my parents faces, and hearing them yelling and screaming as I walked across the stage. My family moved here as refugees in 1998 from Somalia, wanting to give their children a better future. Growing up I got into a bit of trouble, and as the oldest of seven children there was a lot of pressure on me to succeed and set an example. Coming from a country of great need, it made me want to help others.
I started nursing training but switched to paramedicine. I am the first Somali paramedic in New Zealand and I’m pretty proud to say that. I have become a role model for some Somali youth who are doing the things that I used to do. I have even had some of them approach me and ask for support and to mentor them. I never thought I would be a role model because I was not the best behaved child. However, Mum and Dad always had hope. It feels really good though." Abdul |
Meet Jody |
"After my second child was born I became a solo mum. I was quite young and was facing financial difficulties. I felt overwhelmed. I developed depression and ended up almost housebound. However, growing up and living in a rural community means that you know everyone, and your family extends further than your biological lines. My family and friends got me through that journey. They were there for me. It took five years, but its great to see the snowball effect as I enjoy my children and they are able to enjoy me too."
Jody |
"Every human is an artist.
And this is the main art we have:
the creation of our story."
Miguel Angel Ruiz
Meet Jackie |
"Parents are expected to die, but you don't expect to lose your child. Following the death of my 13 year old son it would have been easy for me to run away and hide, and I did for a few years. But I had to figure out if I could live a life with just me and the cows. I decided to be a policewoman, but then realised I hated the law. So I decided to be a fireman, but was told they didn’t take women. My friend suggested ambulance work but I said that I struggle with authority and don’t like hospitals very much. Apparently this makes a fantastic ambulance officer!
After you have lost a child you don't have much fear any more of what could happen to you, so you go where other people won’t go because your boundaries are different. If my son was standing here then I probably wouldn’t be where I am. My life would be a lot different if he hadn’t been killed. Because of my experience I can help others, and have empathy that others don't have." Jackie |
The Outcome: 'Hearts of St John'
A private viewing and presentation at the Kelliher Charitable Trust Art Gallery.
