Pride of NZ Awards: Rachel Jenkinson

Baking for others is always rewarding. But it's even more so when it's for a child who is in hospital. Otago woman Rachel Jenkinson has spent almost two years trying to brighten things up for youngsters who are forced to spend long periods away from school and home because they have to be in hospital. "I wanted to be able to put a hobby to good use. It's a small thing - making a cake - but it's a bit of fun for these kids. It makes them happy and they get excited. The mother of three began organising cakes for youngsters in hospital near her home. But as word got out and referrals came in, she started to think outside the box. The Operation Sugar charity was soon established and now includes 850 bakers from around the country.