Oct 2015: By Amy Childs (Rotorua Review)
Bully Free Bro, or BFB, is an anti-bullying initiative created to engage, educate and empower children and adults to become bully free ambassadors.
Tumarae is stepping out of his position as he has been given an opportunity to continue working with youth and the community here as a health promoter, and because he feels now is a good time to give someone new the chance to lead and grow the campaign with new energy and ideas.
He said to have created BFB and see it grow and develop is very special.
"No other work I’ve done has had as strong an impact on me. I woke up each morning excited about my job, and went home at night feeling I had helped someone and made a small impact on the community. I will miss all the amazing people I worked with who have become like a family to me," he said.
"BFB has been a life changing experience. I have done so many things and had the opportunity to meet and work with many amazing people. I have spread the BFB message through programs, events, schools, conferences on TV and social media. I have worked with kids and families dealing with bullying and violence, listened to many stories of abuse, and been there to support those in need. The dynamics of this roll have been ever changing, and I too have had to learn and adjust to its many challenges."
Tumarae said BFB is his baby that he has nurtured and grown, a gift to new coordinator, that is not an easy one to part with.
"This is given to you Darcy with the understanding you will carry it with pride and integrity as it has been carried before you. This comes with the mana of Te Waiariki Purea Trust, the mana of Te Arawa and the mana of me and my family who have sacrificed much for what it is today. Know that you were chosen because it was seen you had the qualities and values necessary to be the new Bully Free Bro."
Hunt said it is a huge honour to be the new face of BFB and he's looking forward to getting out there in the community and schools.
"I love kids and really enjoy coaching and developing youth. It has always been a passion of mine, and becoming a new dad recently has re-sparked that passion," he said.
"I can't wait to just get out there and start making a difference in the community and schools with the hopes to inspire more BFB kids and adults to join the kaupapa."
Hunt said he understands he has big shoes to fill.
"Warren has come across as a bit of a superhero out in the schools and communities," he said.
"I am super excited to be part of this, and as a famous superhero quote says 'with great power comes greater responsibility', watch out Warren, there's a new superhero in town."
