A local group supporting people and victims affected by the Christchurch mosque attacks has been declared winner of the New Zealand Community of the Year award in a celebration held Wednesday.
The group was recognized for its overwhelming strength, grace and humanity in the aftermath of the March 15 shooting in 2019 which resulted in the death of 51 Muslims, TVNZ reported.
The award prompted a standing ovation from the crowd.
Spokesperson for the group Maha Galal thanked “all New Zealander’s”, on behalf of the March 15th victims and the Muslim community, for the support the country gave for the community to “move on”.
“That’s a huge surprise for all of us. On behalf of March 15 victims and the Muslim community here in New Zealand, I would love to really thank you,” she said.
📚 Read Also: Beautiful Reminder – Allah is in Charge!
The other finalists for the award included Te Puea Memorial Marae Indigenous Homeless Service Delivery Model and Trees That Count groups.
Two years have passed since the grim massacre of 51 Muslims in New Zealand’s Christchurch which shook the worldwide.
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand and the seat of the Canterbury Region.
It is also home to 404,500 residents, making it New Zealand’s 3rd most populous city behind Auckland and Wellington.
📚 Read Also: NZ Marks 2nd Anniversary of Christchurch Terror Attack