Women’s Refuge Votes for Teuila Blakely as Ambassador
Tuesday 30 July 2015
Women’s Refuge Votes for Teuila Blakely as Ambassador
“Teuila Blakely has done herself, her family and friends and Women's Refuge proud with her fabulous performances during Dancing with the Stars," says Women's Refuge Chief Executive Dr Ang Jury.
"While we are disappointed for Teuila that she was voted off the show last night, we are very pleased to announce today, the day before our July Annual Awareness and Appeal month , that she has agreed to become an ambassador for Women's Refuge.
"During her time on Dancing with the Stars, Teuila has raised money for, and awareness about, Women’s Refuge which we are delighted about,” says Dr Jury. “She has also through her own story, shed light on what a significant and prevalent issue domestic violence is in our country.”
Teuila’s story of her past experience of domestic violence was published in Women’s Day magazine this week. "Teuila has courageously spoken out about her own experience of domestic violence and her powerful story will speak to many hundreds of New Zealand women. She gives valuable insights into the dynamics of domestic violence and about how we can help ourselves and others leave a violent relationship,” says Dr Jury.
“Teuila is an experienced actress and New Zealand will see more of her in the future. I look forward to working with her strength and passion for preventing domestic violence within her future role as an Ambassador for Women’s Refuge.