Kiwi Indian Indu Bajwa honoured by Governor General
Jonas Salk, American scientist who invented the polio vaccine, once said,The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more.
Recognition for dedication, hard work, and achievements brings a special sense of pride. That’s precisely how Kiwi-Indian community leader Inderjeet Bajwa (fondly known as Indu Bajwa) is feeling right now.
From being a radio presenter, a Justice of the Peace, and a devoted wife and mother of two, Bajwa has worn many hats with grace and commitment. She has now added another feather to her illustrious career by receiving one of New Zealand’s most respected honours.
Bajwa was recently awarded the coveted Member of The Order of St John (MStJ) by Governor-General, Her Excellency the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, in a special ceremony in Auckland. The honour highlights her two decades of outstanding voluntary service.
Commitment to Community Service
Since 2006, Bajwa has dedicated her time to supporting the Caring Caller Programme, which provides regular phone calls to vulnerable and isolated people in the community. Her leadership helped revive the programme when it was struggling, and she later expanded it to include a Hindi-speaking version, ensuring that members of the Indian community also felt supported and included.
Becoming a Member of the Order of St John is no small achievement. The recognition is given strictly on merit and only to those who demonstrate exceptional loyalty and service. Nominations are reviewed by St John’s leadership and sent to the Sovereign Head of the Order. Bajwa’s name was personally approved by the late Queen Elizabeth II before her passing, making this award even more meaningful.
Receiving the Honour
The official list of awardees is published in The Gazette, New Zealand’s record of honours. Speaking about her recognition, Bajwa expressed her surprise and joy:
“The award was a big surprise for me. Seeing my name on the list made me feel delighted and humble. It also inspired me to keep working hard and serving my community to the best of my ability.”
She added, Receiving the award from the Governor-General was mesmerising. It has motivated me to continue my service with even greater enthusiasm.
A Lifelong Journey of Volunteering
Bajwa’s volunteer journey with St John began nearly twenty years ago. She started as a Caring Caller, phoning elderly and vulnerable people to ensure their well-being. Over time, her dedication led her to become a team leader and eventually the Northern District Manager for the programme.
Today, she leads a team of 44 volunteers and two team leaders. She also organises annual gatherings, such as tea parties and Christmas celebrations, to recognise the hard work of her team. Beyond this, Bajwa contributes through fundraising initiatives and by serving on the Manukau Area Committee, helping organise community events across Auckland.
Her story is a powerful example of how one individual’s commitment can uplift an entire community. Through her tireless service, Bajwa continues to strengthen social connections and inspire future generations of volunteers in New Zealand.
Jonas Salk, American scientist who invented the polio vaccine, once said,The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more.
Recognition for dedication, hard work, and achievements brings a special sense of pride. That’s precisely how Kiwi-Indian community leader Inderjeet Bajwa...
Jonas Salk, American scientist who invented the polio vaccine, once said,The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more.
Recognition for dedication, hard work, and achievements brings a special sense of pride. That’s precisely how Kiwi-Indian community leader Inderjeet Bajwa (fondly known as Indu Bajwa) is feeling right now.
From being a radio presenter, a Justice of the Peace, and a devoted wife and mother of two, Bajwa has worn many hats with grace and commitment. She has now added another feather to her illustrious career by receiving one of New Zealand’s most respected honours.
Bajwa was recently awarded the coveted Member of The Order of St John (MStJ) by Governor-General, Her Excellency the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, in a special ceremony in Auckland. The honour highlights her two decades of outstanding voluntary service.
Commitment to Community Service
Since 2006, Bajwa has dedicated her time to supporting the Caring Caller Programme, which provides regular phone calls to vulnerable and isolated people in the community. Her leadership helped revive the programme when it was struggling, and she later expanded it to include a Hindi-speaking version, ensuring that members of the Indian community also felt supported and included.
Becoming a Member of the Order of St John is no small achievement. The recognition is given strictly on merit and only to those who demonstrate exceptional loyalty and service. Nominations are reviewed by St John’s leadership and sent to the Sovereign Head of the Order. Bajwa’s name was personally approved by the late Queen Elizabeth II before her passing, making this award even more meaningful.
Receiving the Honour
The official list of awardees is published in The Gazette, New Zealand’s record of honours. Speaking about her recognition, Bajwa expressed her surprise and joy:
“The award was a big surprise for me. Seeing my name on the list made me feel delighted and humble. It also inspired me to keep working hard and serving my community to the best of my ability.”
She added, Receiving the award from the Governor-General was mesmerising. It has motivated me to continue my service with even greater enthusiasm.
A Lifelong Journey of Volunteering
Bajwa’s volunteer journey with St John began nearly twenty years ago. She started as a Caring Caller, phoning elderly and vulnerable people to ensure their well-being. Over time, her dedication led her to become a team leader and eventually the Northern District Manager for the programme.
Today, she leads a team of 44 volunteers and two team leaders. She also organises annual gatherings, such as tea parties and Christmas celebrations, to recognise the hard work of her team. Beyond this, Bajwa contributes through fundraising initiatives and by serving on the Manukau Area Committee, helping organise community events across Auckland.
Her story is a powerful example of how one individual’s commitment can uplift an entire community. Through her tireless service, Bajwa continues to strengthen social connections and inspire future generations of volunteers in New Zealand.
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