Voices of Hope New Zealand
Commonwealth Point of Light 142. Jazz Thornton
Commonwealth Point of Light 142. Genevieve Mora
Jazz Thornton and Genevieve Mora, representing New Zealand, founded 'Voices of Hope', using their own personal experiences to provide support and hope to teens struggling with mental illness.
Their first campaign, ‘Dear Suicidal Me’, features suicide attempt survivors and has had more than 800 million views worldwide. Through their leadership, Jazz and Genevieve have been part of the movement that helped push the recent mental health reforms in New Zealand. During the current health crisis, Jazz and Genevieve have continued to engage thousands of young people, helping them combat social isolation through weekly online events featuring leading mental health professionals and advocates.
Laura Clarke, UK High Commissioner in New Zealand, said:
“I am delighted to present Jazz and Genevieve with the Point of Light award. They are two truly inspiring young women, who’s work through Voices of Hope is making a real difference for those who have struggled with mental illness. Mā tini, mā mano, ka rapa te whai. Together we are stronger.”
Jazz and Genevieve said:
“We are so honoured to have received this award from HM The Queen for our work in lived-experience mental health advocacy. As two young females who nearly lost our lives to mental illness, now seeing the greater impact we are able to have through our organisation Voices of Hope is overwhelming. Thank you HM The Queen for naming us as a Commonwealth Points of Light.
“No matter how dark the situation feels, there is always hope.”