StarJam's dedicated founder and CEO Julie Bartlett is celebrating after being named the NEXT Woman of the Year last night at a special awards evening in Auckland.
Ten years ago, in a world first, Julie Bartlett founded StarJam. Julie set out to change the way we perceive those with disabilities by giving them a chance to shine through music and dance workshops. Her philosophy that we can all achieve anything if we believe in it has seen her develop the programme with no performance background of her own, and change the lives of hundreds of Kiwi kids for the better.
“The biggest challenge is taking the risks against everybody’s doubts,” says Julie. “It wasn’t about the performance aspect of StarJam helping the kids, it was about empowering the kids to go on stage and shine so people can see they’re real people who have a lot to contribute.”
Over the years Julie has enlisted the support of A-list heavyweights including Tom Cruise, Taylor Swift and most recently actress Eva Longoria to champion the cause.
The NEXT Woman of the Year judging panel - social crusader Dame Lesley Max; former Rugby World Cup CEO and now head of the Tourism Industry Association, Martin Snedden; and NEXT editor Sarah Henry - described Julie as a true leader in every sense of the word. They called her “a visionary” who went selflessly into unchartered territory to give dignity, respect and fun to the lives of disabled youngsters throughout New Zealand.
“Julie epitomises what we are looking for in our Woman of the Year,” NEXT editor Sarah Henry says. “She is a true inspiration who has made an outstanding contribution to New Zealand through her dedication, drive and determination to succeed.”
“The biggest challenge is taking the risks against everybody’s doubts,” says Julie. “It wasn’t about the performance aspect of StarJam helping the kids, it was about empowering the kids to go on stage and shine so people can see they’re real people who have a lot to contribute.”
Over the years Julie has enlisted the support of A-list heavyweights including Tom Cruise, Taylor Swift and most recently actress Eva Longoria to champion the cause.
“Julie epitomises what we are looking for in our Woman of the Year,” NEXT editor Sarah Henry says. “She is a true inspiration who has made an outstanding contribution to New Zealand through her dedication, drive and determination to succeed.”
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