Whether he’s playing soccer, performing kapa haka or taking to the stage, Christian isn’t afraid to give something new a go.
The Southland teenager, who has a cochlear implant, has embraced a wide range of opportunities since returning to Aotearoa New Zealand with his family a few years ago. From sporting achievements to award-winning performances in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), Christian continues to show confidence, resilience and enthusiasm in everything he does.
Christian loves being active and spending time on the sports field. Last year, he played basketball and soccer through school, as well as soccer for Winton, where he received the Most Improved Player award.
Now in his first year of high school, Christian has continued to make the most of every opportunity. As well as playing soccer in both the winter and summer competitions, he has also taken on the role of refereeing junior games.
His parents, Rhys and Ruth, encourage him to get involved in the things he loves, with one important consideration when it comes to sport.
“Our only requirement is that he wears a helmet to protect his implant,” Rhys says.
Away from the sports field, Christian has also found his place in his high school’s kapa haka group, where he is the only male member.
“This has brought unique challenges, including leading many items and using methods such as feeling the beat or following cues to know when to begin a call,” says Rhys.
Christian receiving his Excellence award from Deaf Children NZ
The group has performed at several community events, including Cultural Day and the Winton Community Matariki Light Walk. In recognition of his contribution, Christian is set to receive the Lions Children of Courage Award in front of his school on 3 November.
Christian’s talents extend to the stage, too. He has participated in two talent quests, receiving a Highly Commended award for his performance of This Is Me in NZSL.
He also took the initiative to organise a group of classmates to perform Pepeha in NZSL. Their performance won the Overall Grand Champion Award and Trophy, a fantastic achievement for Christian and his team.
For Rhys and Ruth, seeing their son take on new challenges and pursue his interests with confidence is something to be proud of.
“We have raised Christian to embrace every opportunity and not let his hearing challenges stop him from having a go,” Rhys says.
“We are very proud of the confidence, resilience and enthusiasm he brings to everything he does.”