Helping rangatahi take the next step
Five local rangatahi are preparing for their future thanks to a scholarship programme delivered in partnership between Waipā Networks and Ko Wai Au, designed to help remove barriers to further study.
The five $1,000 scholarships are available to rangatahi engaged with Ko Wai Au who are progressing into tertiary education and training. The programme reflects a shared commitment to helping young people build confidence, pursue opportunities, and work towards their goals.
Last year’s scholarship recipients are already taking important steps towards their future.
For Te Awamutu’s Teegan, who is studying a Bachelor of Law at the University of Waikato, the scholarship is enabling her to work towards a future career helping others.
“I was inspired to go into law because I saw unfairness and how people from different backgrounds often didn’t have the same opportunities,” she says.
“To me, this scholarship means someone understands what I’m trying to do and wants to help me get there. In the future, I’m most excited about helping the people I’m doing this for and helping them get the support they deserve.”
Fellow recipient O’Shae is studying the New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel at the New Zealand School of Tourism in Hamilton.
Since receiving his scholarship, O’Shae has completed Levels 3 and 4 of his programme and progressed into Level 5.
“Receiving the Waipā Networks Scholarship meant so much more than financial support. It gave me reassurance that people believed in my potential and wanted to invest in my future,” he explains.
The scholarship helped O’Shae purchase study equipment, uniforms and fuel for travelling to Hamilton.
“Instead of worrying about how I was going to afford everything I needed, I was able to focus on my studies and make the most of every opportunity.”
Adrian is taking the first steps towards a future career as a mechanic.
He is currently enrolled in the 15-week Quick Start course at Vision College Hamilton, where he is strengthening his skills in reading, writing, maths and computers, while also learning practical skills such as budgeting and building a productive routine.
After graduating from Quick Start, Adrian plans to progress into the Ultimate 1 and Ultimate 2 programmes, which will support him to gain credits towards NCEA Levels 1 and 2.
A hands-on learner with a passion for cars and problem-solving, Adrian hopes to continue into further training and ultimately become a mechanic.
For Alana, the scholarship has helped turn a long-held passion into a future career.
Alana is studying a Certificate in Skincare and Cosmetics at Elite Beauty School.
“I have always been passionate about beauty, skincare and helping people feel confident in themselves,” she says.
“This opportunity removed a huge barrier and allowed me to pursue a career I’ve dreamed about for a long time. It has been such a huge blessing; truly life-changing.”
Waipā Networks General Manager Customer and Community Anna Watson says that supporting pathways to further education is one way the customer-owned organisation invests in the future of its communities.
“We back initiatives that make a positive difference in our communities. These scholarships help remove barriers for young people and give them the confidence to take the next step in their education journey,” she says.
Ko Wai Au General Manager Georgina Christie says the scholarships are helping rangatahi see what’s possible for their future.
“Many of our rangatahi have the drive and potential to achieve great things. Sometimes they just need practical support and someone who believes in them. These scholarships help create opportunities while also sending a powerful message that their goals matter and their futures are worth investing in.”
Christie and Watson say the partnership between Ko Wai Au and Waipā Networks is an important part of the support provided to rangatahi. By working collaboratively and combining their strengths, the two organisations can help remove barriers, create opportunities and better support young people as they pursue their aspirations. In the current funding environment, they say strong partnerships like this are more important than ever.