2018 C.A.R.E. Heroes
Following the launch of LifeKeepers in 2017, the second annual LifeKeepers C.A.R.E. Heroes Awards continued to shine a light on the extraordinary people and organisations across Aotearoa who are making a real difference in suicide prevention.
These awards celebrate those who work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to strengthen their communities, support others in times of need, and bring hope where it’s needed most. They embody what it means to create communities of C.A.R.E. – Connecting with compassion, Asking with courage, Responding with confidence, and Engaging with the right support.
We are honoured to share the 12 recipients of the 2018 LifeKeepers C.A.R.E. Heroes Awards, nominated by Suicide Prevention Coordinators from across Aotearoa New Zealand.
LifeKeepers Supreme Award 2018
Brian Lowe – Youthline Otago
Congratulations to Brian Lowe, recipient of the 2018 LifeKeepers Supreme Award, recognising his exceptional contribution to youth wellbeing and suicide prevention in Otago and beyond.
With more than a decade of experience working on helplines, Brian now leads Youthline Otago, ensuring its services are delivered by skilled, compassionate counsellors and volunteers. He is dedicated to helping young people develop confidence, resilience, and transferable life skills that strengthen both individuals and their wider communities.
Under his leadership, Youthline provides affordable counselling, community education, and youth development initiatives that empower rangatahi to reach out, connect, and support each other.
2018 C.A.R.E. Heroes
Dr Chris Bowden: Lecturer, Victoria University of Wellington
Jase Te Patu: Wellness advocate and founder of M3 Mindfulness for Children
Patricia T. Ofa: Coordinator, Talk To Me Community Support Group Trust
Piki Taiaroa: Operations Manager, Taumarunui Community Kōkiri Trust
Rose Allan: Counsellor, ACROSS Te Kotahitanga O Te Wairua, Manawatū
Supporting Families in Mental Illness Canterbury: Family and whānau mental health support
Asian Family Services: Counselling and public health support for Asian communities in Aotearoa
Tara Moala: Founder, Rākau Tautoko, Auckland
Gavin Gibbens: Chief Fire Officer, Runanga Volunteer Fire Brigade; Probation Officer, Department of Corrections
Linda Tiatoa: Founding Member, H.Y.P.E. (Helping Young People Evolve), Kaikohe
Natasha Kemp: CEO, Te Kaha o Te Rangatahi Trust, South Auckland
About the Awards
Communities play a vital role in reducing suicide. Across Aotearoa, countless individuals and organisations are working every day to support those at risk, break down stigma, and create safer, more connected communities.
The LifeKeepers C.A.R.E. Heroes Awards were established to recognise these unsung champions, the people and groups already leading the way in suicide prevention.
Each year, regional Suicide Prevention Coordinators from District Health Boards across Aotearoa nominate those making an outstanding contribution to suicide prevention in their local area.
For 2018, we are especially grateful to Clinical Advisory Services Aotearoa (CASA) for their support as the sole sponsor of the awards.
Together, these remarkable recipients embody the spirit of LifeKeepers: courageous, compassionate, and deeply committed to helping others live a life worth living.
