"Jaden has been in and out of Starship all his life, with countless surgeries and lots of pain, but that hasn’t stopped him from achieving great things and inspiring others. Jaden’s tenacity and determination to become a top athlete see him keep on reaching new heights with his sport, and off the field, he is just as impressive.

Jaden has been an amazing ambassador for Starship since he was very young. He has always been driven to give back to the hospital where he’s spent so much time. He started by fundraising as a youngster shaking buckets in street appeals, and now, he has proven to be an empowering speaker at many Starship Foundation events.

Jaden has graciously shared his story with humility, compassion and vitality, and our donors and guests always leave feeling motivated and connected. "

“You are a trail-blazing, mega-talent and much needed in this world.”

“Jaden always shows great commitment in everything he does. His determination and positive attitude shine through in every challenge he takes on. As part of the Halberg Youth Council, Jaden’s hard work and dedication sets a great example for others.”

"As Chief Children’s Commissioner, Jaden’s vision inspires me, his words motivate me and his wero challenges me. I observe that he brings hope and courage to other mokopuna whaikaha – he is a role-model. When decision-makers listen and take action on what Jaden and his peers are advocating for, I know our systems will better support disabled children and young people to flourish.

I am deeply grateful to Jaden for sharing his story and for his ongoing commitment to advocating for children’s rights. "

“Jaden, I hope you had a fun time coming to our school. You were really inspiring showing us that no matter who you are or what you are, you can do anything.”

“Jaden's captivating story of perseverance and resilience resonated deeply with our students. He shared how the Paralympic values of courage, determination, inspiration, and equality have shaped his life journey. Jaden's visit was a highlight of our term.

His kindness, patience, and willingness to answer our questions created a memorable and impactful experience. We are grateful for the opportunity to learn from such an inspiring athlete.”

“Jaden, thank you so much for coming to see the children today. I really think that during these times in hospital, it offers a ray of hope and empowerment when they meet people like yourself who have been through the struggle, the scans, the surgeries, the treatments and have come out the other side still smiling and willing to help and encourage others.

Your strength and determination are a ray of hope to me as well. Being Jack’s voice and advocate can be challenging but meeting you reminded me how strong I am as well and reminded me of why I fight for Jack.”

"We are incredibly proud to have Jaden as part of our Paralympic Education programme 'Seeing is Believing' as a Harvey Norman Para Sport Champion. His impact on our community so far has been immeasurable through his ability to connect with students, share his experiences, and motivate them to reach for their dreams.

Through our programme, Jaden has shown our students what it truly means to overcome adversity and push beyond limitations and his dedication and passion for Para sport and advocacy is a true testament to his resilience and determination. "

"At Kindred Foundation, we are incredibly grateful to be guided by Jaden as we co-develop a strategy to support the mental and physical health of youth living with a physical disability. Jaden brings wisdom, commitment, and expertise to this initiative and we are very excited about what we will accomplish together.

Jaden, we are inspired by your passion and drive to make a difference for youth!"

“It gives me great optimism seeing young activists like yourself leading the charge and pushing the world forward, whether it be challenging discrimination and inequities for fighting for climate action. Your voice and advocacy efforts have a huge potential as a force for good and transformative change.”

"Working with Jaden during his time on the Ministry of Youth Development (MYD) – Te Manatū Whakahiato Taiohi Youth Advisory Group was a real privilege and honour. It was incredibly inspiring to meet such a driven young man with such an unrelenting passion to excel in all areas of his own life while also advocating to enable others to excel in their lives too.

While part of our Youth Advisory Group, Jaden played a vital role in ensuring young people with disabilities’ voices were always brought to the table. This was an invaluable contribution to MYD’s mahi!"