WIDE Trust undergraduate scholarship recipients 2024
Thursday 27 Jun 2024
The WIDE Trust is proud to announce that earlier this year 51
grants were awarded by the Trust to undergraduate students
studying towards careers in either the forestry or wood industries in New
Zealand in 2024.
The WIDE Trust awarded a further five grants to
students, selected by the School of Forestry at the University of Canterbury,
who demonstrate exceptional leadership ability and personal commitment to
involvement in community initiatives. These five students, profiled below, were
each awarded a $10,000 grant to further their education and contributions to
their communities.
Ashan Barr
Ashan has shown remarkable dedication both in and out of the academic arena.
He is a second-year student studying a Bachelor of Forest Engineering at
the University of Canterbury and has balanced a strong commitment to
sports. Off the field, Ashan's leadership roles have included serving as a
service prefect, managing the Multicultural Manaaki Centre at his school, and
mentoring and tutoring peers and younger students. For his extensive
service, especially to the refugee community, Ashan has been recognized with
awards, including the Naaz Shah Memorial Trophy.
Manon
Bonar
Manon exemplifies a profound commitment to community, sports, and leadership.
Over the past three years, Manon has actively participated in a variety of
community activities, notably including Run 72 to support men's mental health,
aiding students with different learning needs and involvement in university
clubs leadership. Manon is a second-year student studying a Bachelor
of Forest Engineering.
Rakairoa Joyce
Rakairoa demonstrates a remarkable blend of leadership, community service, and
athletic prowess. In high school, she excelled as Head Girl and contributed
significantly to several committees, including the Taiohi Tu committee, which
promotes Te Reo and organises cultural events. In 2024, Rakairoa is set to
further her impact as the Māori and Pasifika Lead on the University of
Canterbury Student Volunteer Army Executive and as part of the University of
Canterbury Squash Club Executive team. Rakairoa is a second-year student
studying a Bachelor of Forest Engineering.
Hollie
McKay
Leadership is a strong suit for Hollie, evidenced by her roles in mentoring,
coaching, and captaining, which have honed her skills in planning, team
management, and empathetic leadership. An Outward Bound scholarship winner, she
has demonstrated resilience, self-awareness, and an ability to manage group
dynamics effectively. Hollie volunteers with Nelmac and promotes
understanding and inclusiveness with Māori culture and the LGBTQIA+
community. Hollie is a first-year student studying a Bachelor of Forest
Science.
Millan Jeffcote
In 2023 Millan’s year was marked by deep engagement with both his school's
cultural and sports communities. Beyond the classroom, his commitment to
community service is exemplified through his mentorship in the Hāpai Rangatahi
programme, supporting disengaged youths, and his regular academic support
sessions at Cambridge Middle School. These roles highlight his ability to
inspire and guide, underpinned by a significant dedication to volunteering, with
over 250 hours contributing to his silver SVA award. Millan is a first-year
student studying a Bachelor of Forest Science.
Source: WIDE Trust
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