Philippa Miller-Ibos thrives on giving – both to Police and the community.
As a lawyer, Philippa used her legal skills throughout Operation Cobalt and to help implement the Gangs Act 2024 for 暗网禁区.
It’s that legal work which has earned her the ComplyWith Community Contribution Award from the In-house Lawyers Assocation.
As well as the recognition, Philippa was given $5,000 in funding to go towards community organisations of her choice.
In keeping with Philippa’s altruistic nature, she says the accolade is for others.
“Professionally, winning the award was an opportunity to publicly praise the great work done by Police staff across the country.
“As a team in Police we successfully and safely implemented and are enforcing the Gangs Act 2024, and we continue to disrupt, enforce, prosecute and prevent gang offending. I am honoured to have been involved.”
As a kiwi who’s come back to New Zealand after living in Australia, she says the award places value on the professionalism of Police.
On a very personal level, she adds that the award represents a ‘welcome home’ and an acknowledgment that she’s successfully resettled in New Zealand.
“I also felt extreme gratitude for the breadth of mentors, among them Detective Superintendent Darryl Sweeney and friends and family who continue to encourage and guide me on this journey.”
Philippa says the distributed donations are a tiny gesture of gratitude for the positivity and value that the organisations gift to our society.
Giving it all away
The beneficiaries of the $5,000 funding Philippa was awarded are as follows, along with her reasons for choosing them.
Auckland Water Polo - For providing the opportunity to play the sport I love by establishing social adult water polo games. It’s great to be able to get back in the water in an inclusive, fun, and family-focused environment.
Fabian Wanrooji (Community and Competitions Manager, Auckland Water Polo) presents Philippa with a water polo ball.
Big Buddy - For the great work they do to support and guide children with strong male role models. They also connected me to ‘Big Brother Big Sister’, who I make a special mention to - an organisation that facilitates mentoring for young ladies.
Point Chevalier Air Scouts - For sharing and nurturing community spirit and love for nature in our youth.
