NZME Hastings Business Association Awards: NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do Honoured as Finalist
Hastings, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand – 29 August — NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do Centre, led by Ben Evans, was proudly recognized as the 3rd Place Finalist for Social Enterprise of the Year at the NZME Hastings Business Association Awards. This prestigious honour celebrates the Centre’s exceptional contributions to the community—especially its work with individuals with disabilities, support for low socioeconomic families, and the operation of a free inclusive fitness gym.
In a highly competitive field of over 150 nominated businesses, only 21 advanced to the finals across seven major categories: Trade of the Year, Emerging Business of the Year, Best Retail, Best Employer, Supreme Business, Customer Experience of the Year, and Wellness or Beauty of the Year. NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do stood tall among respected finalists, including Volunteering Hawkes Bay and the Graeme Dingle Foundation.
“We are still amazed that we made it as a finalist, as the calibre of competition was incredibly strong.”
– Ben Evans
Evans went on to say, “We always remember what ITF President Prof. GM RI Yong Son said in Kazakhstan—that all competing are champions in the room. We want to pay tribute to his strong leadership in ITF, which continues to inspire us to promote the Original ITF Taekwon‑Do for people of all ages and abilities.”
The ceremony was a standout moment for Hastings’ business community, attended by over 200 guests. Dignitaries included Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst and popular television presenter Mr. Jesse Mulligan. The event was masterfully coordinated by Emma and Lucinda of the Hastings Business Association, whose efforts were widely praised.
Following the success of the event, Emma, Lucinda, Sport Hawkes Bay representatives, and local MP Catherine Wedd plan to visit the NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do Centre. They will attend a special demonstration featuring both inclusive and mainstream students, proudly presenting the Original ITF style.
“Thank you, Emma and Lucinda, for your hard work in organizing such a prestigious event.”
– Ben Evans
A potential sponsorship partnership with Tileshed was also discussed during the evening. While not yet finalized, the agreement would involve Tileshed providing demonstration tiles for all future NZ ITF events—a promising step forward in expanding community demonstrations.
In attendance with Ben Evans were key leadership members of the NZ ITF delegation: Ms. Emily Harris (Ben’s partner), Ms. Lei Tanabe, Mr. Aidan McCance, Mr. Rodney Mackay, Ms. Dezaiya Hoeta, Mr. Jah Tapara, and Mrs. Lynne Trafford. These individuals continue to play a vital role in the Centre’s success and mission.
“We gained great support and recognition for the Original ITF Taekwon‑Do,” Evans added. “Congratulations to all who were present, and we look forward to seeing everyone in Hastings City next Thursday for our big demonstration!”
This recognition cements NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do Centre’s position as a leading force in social enterprise, committed to building a better future through inclusive training, discipline, and community empowerment.
