HEART Project Fund Hui – June 2026

On the 10th of June, our HEART Project Fund Kaitiaki came together to share updates, discuss new ideas, and hear about the projects and initiatives community members and change agents are leading to strengthen connection and wellbeing across their neighbourhoods.

One of the projects approved for funding was a community BBQ led by HEART Change Agent Julia Friedewald!

During the hui, Julia shared something many of us can relate to. Despite living in her neighbourhood, she realised she didn't really know many of the people around her. After hearing about Ren's experience as a street leader and the connections she had built within her own community, Julia felt inspired to create a similar opportunity for the people living around Taurima Reserve in Point England.

Her idea is simple but powerful! Bringing neighbours together over a shared BBQ and creating a space where people can connect and start building relationships with one another.

The event will utilise the newly approved HEART Movement BBQ trailer and is planned to coincide with the opening of the new playground facilities at Taurima Reserve later in July. Julia hopes the gathering will give neighbours the chance to meet with people they may see every day but have never had the opportunity to get to know.

The  HEART Community Event Kit will also be available for other change agents to borrow in the future, making it easier for more community connection events to happen across our neighbourhoods. 

What makes this project so special is its simplicity. It's about turning strangers into neighbours and neighbours into community. We're excited to see the conversations, friendships, and connections that grow from this initiative!

As we reflect on this hui, we would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Roxanne for her contribution as a HEART Project Fund Kaitiaki. As she begins a new chapter after moving up north, we acknowledge the time, care, and wisdom she has brought to the HEART Movement. Her support has helped empower community-led initiatives and strengthened the HEART Movement in meaningful ways. We wish her all the very best for this next journey and know she will continue to make a positive impact wherever she goes.