Office of Ethnic Affairs receives award for service to the Korean community

The Office of Ethnic Affairs has been selected as the first recipient of the Korean Ambassador's Award.

The award has been newly created by the Korean government to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and the Republic of Korea.

It recognises outstanding contributions for the welfare and smooth integration of the Korean community to New Zealand.

His Excellency, Yongkyu Park, awarded the honour to Iain Sands, Ethnic Affairs Advisor at the Office of Ethnic Affairs, on 28 April 2012 at Korean Day celebrations in Auckland.

Ambassador Park chose to give the award to the government agency for its "contribution and efforts in promoting mutual understanding and strengthening the friendship between New Zealanders and the Korean community."

Iain Sands has been involved with numerous projects with the Korean community in New Zealand. In April 2012 he was a key organiser of an employment and career development forum in Auckland for Korean youth aged 15-19 years.

In December last year Iain played a significant role in bringing together Korean non-governmental-organisations for the first time to share information and discuss alliances.

The Director for the Office of Ethnic Affairs, Mervin Singham says the Office is honoured to be the recipient of the award and is looking forward to continuing its work alongside the Korean community in the future.

www.ethnicaffairs.govt.nz

ENDS

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