Ambassadors

Miriama Smith – Actor, Dancer & Singer

“From a young age I have had a sense of ‘self-worth’ instilled in me which has given me the confidence to get me where I am today. I had a very humble upbringing in Rotorua and Porirua, but I was never in need of love, shelter and basic physical and nutritional needs. It is every child’s right to these necessities but in reality thousands of kiwi children are missing out. BUT, it is not too late to make a difference which is why I am lending my support to KidsCan.

KidsCan recognizes that in order to make the big leaps you have to first take the little steps and focus on the basics. This is reflected in their ‘Raincoats for Kids’ and the ‘Food for Kids' programmes.

I felt extremely honoured to be invited to join KidsCan as an Ambassador and did not hesitate to offer my support to such a valuable and necessary cause. After over fifteen years of work experience in the NZ Film and TV industry it is my desire to give back to the community. I hope my profile, as well as the continued support of other generous ambassadors, may help raise awareness of KidsCan and all the wonderful things that it is doing for underprivileged children in NZ.”

Donald Reid – Singer/Songwriter

"Helping a New Zealand Charity change the lives of kiwi kids in poverty is a real opportunity to make a difference in your own backyard. Kids, poverty and New Zealand are three subjects I care a great deal about so I couldn't refuse giving my full support".

Donald grew up in Christchurch in a family of five children. His passion for music can be attributed to both nature and nurture. His parents and four siblings all play a diverse range of instruments and guitars and singing were commonplace sounds at family parties. Reid also nurtured his own ability and passionate love for music. Starting with ukulele lessons at the age 7, and piano lessons, Reid taught himself, at age 10, how to play the guitar by reading chord charts and watching his father and two sisters play.

Jordan Luck – Music Legend

"When there are children going without in New Zealand what can you do but help. The future is written by our children. I am pleased to endeavour for the KidsCan cause."

It's a pretty safe bet that everyone under 50 in New Zealand knows and loves Jordan Luck's eccentric pop songs. Just like the BBQ & Buzzy Bee, Jordan's music is a part of Kiwiana culture. Today, The Exponents may be gone, but Jordan is back, bigger and brighter than ever with a string of iconic Kiwi musicians behind him in a band simply called LUCK.

Jeetan Patel – Black Cap

“I am very excited and feel extremely privileged to take on my new role as ambassador for KidsCan, a cause I feel very strongly about. As a child growing up I was never short of all the essentials a Kiwi kid needs, I had warmth, love, food and fun - however I was always made aware that all children were not as fortunate as myself. With KidsCan I have the opportunity to give back a bit of all the simple things in life, and a few smiles too, for those who can't always depend on getting them from home.

I was involved in the 'Shoes for Kids' launch; it brought great joy to me to see the excitement on the kids, and even the parents' faces. I'm really looking forward to helping kids through KidsCan in events such as these in the future”.

James Franklin – Black Cap

“When I was asked to become an Ambassador for KidsCan I didn't hesitate to accept. It was an easy decision to make having seen the amazing work that this charity does to help kids who don't have sufficient support to grow and learn. I am fortunate to have had a great upbringing from my parents but I know this is not always the case. Many kids across our country are not provided with shoes, raincoats and/or lunch for school.

KidsCan help to make a difference to kids' lives through different programmes. I am looking forward to contributing and being part of what is already a fantastic charity.”