International Taekwon‑Do Federation

Hastings, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, 29 August— NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do Centre, led by Ben Evans, has been honored with the 3rd Place Finalist award for Social Enterprise of the Year in Hastings. The award recognizes the Centre’s outstanding work in the community, particularly its efforts to support individuals with disabilities, those from low socioeconomic backgrounds, and the provision of a free inclusive fitness gym.

NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do was one of three finalists in the Social Enterprise category, alongside well-known organizations Volunteering Hawkes Bay and the Graeme Dingle Foundation. Out of over 150 nominated businesses, only 21 advanced to the final stages across seven prestigious categories, including 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.

“We are still amazed that we made it as a finalist, as the calibre of competition was incredibly strong,” said Ben Evans. “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 Prof. GM RI Yong Son for his strong leadership in ITF, which continues to motivate us to push the Original ITF Taekwon‑Do for people of all ages and abilities.”

The event, a key highlight for the local business community, was attended by over 200 people, including the Mayor of Hastings, Mrs. Sandra Hazlehurst, and well-known television presenter Mr. Jesse Mulligan. The evening was expertly organized by Emma and Lucinda of the Hastings Business Association, who, along with representatives from Sport Hawkes Bay and local MP Catherine Wedd, will soon visit the NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do training centre. They will witness a special demonstration by both inclusive and mainstream Taekwon‑Do students, showcasing the Original ITF. “Thank you, Emma and Lucinda, for your hard work in organizing such a prestigious event,” Evans remarked.

During the event, a potential sponsorship agreement with Tileshed was discussed, with plans for Tileshed to provide tiles for all future demonstrations hosted by the Centre. While not yet officially announced, this agreement represents a promising opportunity for NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do as they continue to showcase the Original ITF Taekwon‑Do to the community.

In attendance with Ben Evans were key longtime members of the NZ ITF delegation, including Ms. Emily Harris (Ben Evans' partner), Ms. Lei Tanabe, Mr. Aidan McCance, Mr. Rodney Mackay, Ms. Dezaiya Hoeta, Mr. Jah Tapara, and Mrs. Lynne Trafford. These individuals are vital to the leadership and success of the NZ ITF organization.

“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 solidifies NZ ITF Taekwon‑Do Centre's status as a leader in social enterprise, dedicated to fostering inclusivity and community empowerment through the teachings of Original ITF Taekwon‑Do.