Real Stories

Tangaroa Paul is the kind of person who lights up a room just by walking in. With a huge smile and an infectious giggle, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Tangaroa’s life has been non-stop sunshine and laughter. However, dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that Tangaroa’s journey has been anything but straightforward.

Inclusion and cultural understanding is an everyday part of learning at Freemans Bay School. Teacher Yu-Ching Liu hails from Taiwan, and describes celebrating diversity in her classroom as a normal everyday experience.

Elle has regularly faced racism since she moved to Aotearoa 17 years ago. She sees racism as a frequent and distressing part of her life.

Decide whether someone’s opinion is worth listening to

After a tough year for the travel industry, Pink Shirt Day “an opportunity to reset and celebrate”

Bullying can change people’s lives

Jenene Crossan knows what it’s like to be bullied for having COVID-19. As one of Aotearoa’s earliest positive cases, she’s faced ‘heinous online trolling’ and personal attacks since she contracted the virus on her way home from London.

For journalist Aziz Al-Sa'afin, Pink Shirt Day represents an opportunity for Aotearoa to stand united against bullying. “It will be the most amazing thing to see a sea of pink on the day. It’s such a strong, positive and powerful message to send out there – it takes the power back.”

As a plus size style and self-love writer, Meagan Kerr is all too familiar with how challenging it can be to find fashion that fits all shapes and sizes. That’s why, she is pleased that the range of Pink Shirt Day t-shirts has been extended to 5XL, so that more plus-sized people are able to support the Pink Shirt Day kaupapa.