Megan Fairley: The Chocolate Queen and Project Hope & Beyond's Inspiring Journey in Dunedin, New Zealand
In the charming city of Dunedin, New Zealand, a remarkable woman named Megan Fairley, affectionately known as the Chocolate Queen, joined forces with former Cadbury's staff to create an extraordinary fundraising team called Project Hope & Beyond. Driven by their passion for mental health advocacy, this dedicated team embarked on a journey that has raised over $50,000 to support mental health causes in New Zealand. Let's explore the inspiring story of Megan Fairley, the Chocolate Queen, and the incredible efforts of Project Hope & Beyond to make a positive impact on mental health in their community.
The Chocolate Queen's Love Affair with Cadbury's
Megan Fairley, lovingly referred to as the Chocolate Queen, had a long-standing connection with Cadbury's. She was an employee at the Dunedin chocolate factory for over two decades, where she cultivated her deep love for all things chocolate. Her time at Cadbury's not only honed her skills in chocolate-making but also fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among the staff.
The Birth of Project Hope & Beyond
When the Cadbury's factory closed its doors in 2018, Megan Fairley and her former colleagues were faced with the reality of losing their beloved workplace. However, rather than succumbing to despair, they saw an opportunity to rally together and make a difference in their community. Thus, Project Hope & Beyond was born.
The Vision for Mental Health Advocacy
With their shared experience of resilience and determination, Megan Fairley and the former Cadbury's staff members recognized the critical need for mental health support in their community. They envisioned a world where mental health challenges were met with compassion and understanding, and individuals felt empowered to seek help without fear of stigma.
Fundraising and Chocolate-Making Magic
Combining their love for chocolate with their determination to create change, Megan Fairley and the Project Hope & Beyond team devised ingenious fundraising strategies. Their events centred around the art of chocolate-making, capturing the hearts of the Dunedin community and beyond.
The Chocolate Queen herself became the face of their initiatives, hosting chocolate-making workshops and demonstrations, where participants not only learned the secrets of creating delectable treats but also gained insights into mental health awareness. The Chocolate Queen also did a Willy Wonka taking back the Old Cadburys Chocolate Factory before it was pulled down to run factory tours and to give the staff and community closure and along the way the staff have spent thousands of hours fundraising on the old Cadburys site every weekend no matter if it was raining, snowing or below zero, we kept going raising money to support New Zealanders. These events were not only an opportunity for indulgence but also a platform for open conversations about mental well-being.
Support from the Community
The Dunedin community embraced the efforts of Megan Fairley and Project Hope & Beyond wholeheartedly. Local businesses, organisations, and individuals were eager to contribute to the cause. Their support came in the form of donations, sponsorships, and active participation in the chocolate-making events.
The Power of Collective Impact
Driven by their passion and fueled by the support of the community, Megan Fairley and the Project Hope & Beyond team exceeded all expectations. Through their unwavering determination, they raised over $50,000 for mental health causes in New Zealand. These funds were directed towards organisations dedicated to mental health support, research, and awareness campaigns.
Spreading Hope and Inspiring Change
Beyond the impressive fundraising achievements, Megan Fairley and Project Hope & Beyond have played a pivotal role in changing the conversation around mental health. By combining the allure of chocolate with the importance of mental well-being, they have ignited meaningful discussions and shattered the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.
Their story has inspired other communities and individuals to come together and support mental health initiatives, amplifying the message of hope and empathy.
Megan Fairley, the Chocolate Queen, and the former Cadbury's staff members of Dunedin, New Zealand, have proven that resilience and determination can transform loss into an opportunity for positive change. Through Project Hope & Beyond, they are working so hard to push for positive change within a community and inspire everyone to spread a little bit more love.
M xx
