Wellington students empowered to be their best

Wellington students empowered to be their best

On Monday two talented Wellington Year 12 students will be given the chance to achieve their academic potential thanks to Telecom and First Foundation.

Penina Lote from Wainuiomata High School and Luke Boyadjian from Aotea College are to be awarded a First Foundation scholarship that will enable them to benefit from a debt-free tertiary education, paid work experience with Telecom and mentoring over a four-year period.

Both students will receive their scholarships on the 2nd of November at the First Foundation awards ceremony, James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor from 5.30pm.

CEO of Telecom Wholesale and International, Matt Crockett, says, “Penina and Luke were chosen not only for their academic talent but their drive to succeed against the odds. We are very happy to be providing these gifted students with the foundation they need to excel academically and be excellent ambassadors for their community."

Penina Lote says that being awarded the scholarship has given her assurance that she is on her way to tertiary study. “Receiving a First Foundation scholarship is a life-changing experience and I feel honoured to have been given this opportunity.”

Penina is recognised for her ability to motivate her peers as Peer Mentor and leader of her Polynesian Club. Through her scholarship, Penina will be joining a Telecom Retail Store in time for the Christmas rush.

Avid cricketer, Luke Boyadjian is captain of the Aotea College 1st XI Cricket team and is a Wellington rep player.

“Luke is capable of making a positive impact in whatever he is involved with and we look forward to seeing him joining Telecom’s ICT arm, Gen-I in coming months,” says Mr Crockett.

First Foundation scholarships bring together a diverse group of talented and financially disadvantaged New Zealand students to achieve their potential through tertiary education and positively influence their communities.

Founder of First Foundation, Steven Carden says that financial hardship, lack of role models, limited knowledge about career paths, and external pressure to leave school can prevent talented kiwi students from achieving their full potential.

“The scholarships enabled by Telecom help break down these barriers in an empowering way, encouraging students to succeed through their own hard work and become role models for others,” says Mr Carden.

Telecom’s association with First Foundation began in 2003 when they became principal sponsor.

"Telecom is committed to supporting organisations and initiatives that result in a better future for New Zealanders. We are extremely proud to have expanded our involvement with the organisation this year by taking on 12 of First Foundation’s 40 scholarships,” says Mr Crockett.

ENDS

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