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Held in Marlborough and Nelson, the events brought together ākonga, whānau, iwi partners, industry and community organisations to recognise the shared commitment to growing the region’s future workforce.
In Marlborough, $33,000 in scholarships was awarded to five students, supported by organisations including the Marlborough Research Centre, Churchill Private Hospital Trust, the New Zealand Aviation Federation and the Zonta Club of Marlborough. The Nelson ceremony followed, awarding $130,000 in scholarships, with strong support from iwi partners and a wide range of industry and community donors.
Speaking at the Marlborough ceremony, Susannah Roddick, NMIT Director Academic and Teaching, highlighted the wider impact of the awards. “Education has the power to open doors, change futures, and create lasting impact, not just for individuals, but for families, industries, and the wider region,” she said.
At the Nelson ceremony, MC Nicole Akuhata, Pouārahi – Director Māori and Learner Success, acknowledged the importance of partnership in making the scholarships possible. “Every scholarship awarded today reflects a partnership between educators, iwi, industry, community leaders and students, all working together to grow talent, build skills and support our region,” she said.
Student speakers at both ceremonies shared personal reflections on their journeys and the impact of the scholarships. In Marlborough, nursing students Hayley Gill and Caitlin Hawkes-Bradding spoke about the confidence and resilience they had gained through study.
“Coming to NMIT has completely changed my perspective on learning and on myself,” said Hayley.
“Receiving this scholarship means far more than financial assistance… it represents recognition of the hard work, growth and perseverance it has taken to reach this point.”
In Nelson, student speaker Joel Jackson thanked donors on behalf of recipients and reflected on the confidence the scholarships provide. “The impact that this award can have on a student can be life changing, not just financially, but in confidence of their ability to achieve something great,” he said.
