Raj Varma - Big Buddy Ambassador
You might recognise the face of Big Buddy’s latest ambassador, the wonderful Raj Varma.
Raj is the face behind one of New Zealand’s best-known TV dads, the father of the mythical Sharma family.
More importantly Raj, is also himself, a loyal and inspiring Big Buddy for a young boy named Martyn.
Most recently Raj also volunteered as a mentor of our new Big Buddy Group Programme supporting teenage boys. He also MC'd the launch event as we announced the new Group Programme to the Big Buddy supporters and partners.
The ANZ ads which Raj stars in, follow the Sharma family. People have really identified with the family, there are Reddit threads about the dad’s motorbike hallucinations and even a ‘Yes Sameer’ catchphrase on t-shirts.” On this page you can watch a reminder of the Sharma Family and their love of cricket....
Raj Varma has been the centre of the family after returning to NZ when Covid struck, after many years acting in New York.
Another place you might have seen Raj, was on the Project last year, where he and his Little Buddy Martyn generously shared the story of the Big Buddy relationship. Their connection was so strong, that incredibly their story was the most-watched segment of the year.
Raj was drawn to Big Buddy wanting to give back after not having a father presence in his own problematic childhood.
“Spending time together with my Little Buddy is special. Simply being there makes the difference. Turning up regularly and showing you care,” he says
“Young boys challenges change from week to week. As Big Buddies we are there to support them and simply be there for them. We are constantly learning what giving support to a young boy looks like.
“I am so proud to become a Big Buddy ambassador, I have seen first-hand the difference the organisation makes in my role as a Big Buddy and can’t wait to get more involved,” Raj says.
