Jonas Salk, American scientist who invented the polio vaccine, once said, “The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more.”
Undoubtedly, one feels special when one is recognised for one’s dedication, hard work and achievements.
And that's precisely how Kiwi-Indian and known face of the Indian diaspora in Auckland, Inderjeet Bajwa (fondly known as Indu Bajwa), is feeling at the moment.
From being a radio presenter, a community leader and a Justice of the Peace to being a caring wife and a doting mother of two, Bajwa now has another feather to her already illustrious hat.
She has recently been awarded the coveted Member of The Order of St John (MStJ) award from New Zealand Governor-General Her Excellency the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro in an award ceremony in Auckland.
Bajwa received this award for serving the community since 2006. Since then, she has uplifted and revitalised the Caring caller programme at St John’s, which was previously struggling. Addedly, she has also shaped the Hindi caring caller program for the Indian community.
It may be noted that becoming a Member of The Order of St John is made on merit. Candidate is admitted because they stand out from their peers. It is an honour only bestowed upon deserving members who have demonstrated loyalty and service to the organisation. The Royal Charter incorporated the order during the reign of Queen Victoria.
Members of the Order were formerly known as Serving Brothers and Serving Sisters. Each year all the countries send their chosen list to the Queen. The process involves getting nominated by St Johns. Then, the nominations are approved by the executive board of St Johns. The finalised nominations are then sent to the Queen, who chooses the final award recipients. Bajwa’s name was selected by the Queen when she was still alive.
The awards are published in The Gazette for official public records. Bajwa was on the list for MStJ from NZ.
Seeming excited about the award, Bajwa said, “The award was a big surprise for me. Usually, someone within the St. Johns community nominates for the awards. 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, "It is inspirational and fulfilling to work with tremendous enthusiasm. The award presentation was very mesmerising and receiving it from the Governor-General made it more appealing.”
As a volunteer, Bajwa's journey with St John's started way back in 2006. Reminiscing, she said, “My journey with St John has been incredible. One learns how to give back to the community through volunteer programs like caring callers, youth programmes, health shuttles, hospital friends, pet therapy and many more ways to reach the community. In 2006, I chose to volunteer as a caring caller (A caring caller has the responsibility of phoning people to ensure their well-being).”
After a couple of years, she stepped up as a team leader for the program and later as the Northern district manager for the caring caller department. “I have a team of 44 callers and two team leaders who help to run the program smoothly and efficiently. I organise a mid-year tea party or a Christmas party for the callers and team leaders. We have fun, discuss the happening all year round, and reflect on improving it. I am also on the Manukau Area committee, where we organise and support different events yearly. We also do lots of fundraising for St. Johns,” Bajwa said.