Local Board Chairperson Lemauga Lydia Sosene with Jasmine Kovach.
Jasmine received the award for her efforts advocating for Community Action against Alcohol Harm. On top of her work with the KCOCA Jasmine, an Old Collegian herself (1992-1993, Middlemore), is also a member of the Board of Trustees for Fairburn School in Otahuhu.
We sat down to talk with Jasmine about her involvement in the local community and what she does for King’s College.
Take us through your role as the KCOCA Executive Officer? What does it involve?
Jasmine Kovach: Each day I deal with a variety of people. I mainly work promoting engagement with the College to Old Collegians from across the years. This can involve hosting reunion events, liasing with different affiliate groups, such as the Floreat Semper (for Old Collegians that are 70 years of age or above) and working with the KCOCA President Terry Gould.
What’s the best part about working at King’s?
JK: There are so many great opportunities to meet and engage with people. Especially in my role, I get to meet so many Old Collegians from across the years, who all have different stories about their time at King’s. I also love the history of King’s, the tradition and the beautiful architecture. It’s awesome to work somewhere with such a rich culture and tradition.
And you also went to King’s. Do you have any fond memories of your time at the College?
JK: I particularly remember enjoying my English classes with Mr David Barclay.
Tell us a bit more about your work in the community?
JK: I work with Community Action against Alcohol Harm, who object to the increase of liquor licences in the Mangere-Otahuhu area. This often involves appearing at District Licensing Committee hearings, and before the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority to advocate against the proliferation of liquor stores in our community.
What drives your work in the community?
JK: The Mangere-Otahuhu area has one of the highest liquor license rates and has the highest proportion of young people in Auckland. I think it’s really important to speak up for the community on issues that impact children and families. As I live and work in Otahuhu, I am extremely passionate about issues that affect my community.
