StarJam Appoints Dr Libby Weaver as Patron

22 October 2014

StarJam Appoints Dr Libby Weaver as Patron

Charity StarJam who provide performance opportunities for young people with disabilities, has appointed internationally acclaimed Nutritional Biochemist, author and speaker Dr Libby Weaver as Patron.

Recognised as a leading author of numerous top-selling books on health and wellness and as a highly sought after speaker, Dr Libby’s holistic approach and unique form of education is embraced by audiences across the world including actors Hugh Jackman and wife Deborra-lee Furness.

Dr Libby has a particular interest in children with special needs, examining the biochemical and nutritional factors in children with autism for her PhD. Her findings led to a change in the way Autism is treated in Australia and New Zealand.

“When StarJam reached out and invited me to be Patron I was truly thrilled. Having done a PhD in biochemistry, which involved working with families with children with autism, I recognise and value the importance of giving children with special needs the opportunity to shine.

“The fact that one in five New Zealanders are less-abled quite often involves a world of can’ts instead of cans; I love that StarJam is all about bringing the talents of these amazing young people to life and showing the world what they can do instead of focusing on what they cannot do.

“StarJam provides opportunities for young Kiwis to stand tall, dream big, build friendships, share their talents, and to inspire others. I look forward to sharing what StarJam does with the rest of New Zealand and the world,” says Dr Libby Weaver.

Dr. Libby replaces Julie Bartlett, MNZM, StarJam’s Founder, who after 11 years as CEO handed the reins over to her successor, Mary Ansell, in November 2013.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr Libby as StarJam’s new Patron. Her enthusiasm and support of StarJam will help us further the work of StarJam in the community,” says Andrew Seerden, Chair StarJam.

About StarJam - www.starjam.org
What matters to us is what our young people can achieve – not what they can’t. At StarJam we create empowering performance opportunities for young people with disabilities, who we call ‘Jammers’. We provide weekly workshops in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch in drumming, singing, dancing and guitar, as well as opportunities for our Jammers to perform gigs at public and private events.

Our unique programmes and our monthly community get-togethers, all free-of-charge, give our Jammers opportunities to learn and develop skill sets, gain confidence, experience respect and build friendships that can last a lifetime. StarJam has been acknowledged in seventeen different awards programmes since 2007 and relies solely on grants and donations as it receives no government funding.

ENDS

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