PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2024

NZCT contribution changes communities

In 2008, Brooke Leota became one of the first two scholars supported by New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT). Fast forward to 2024 and NZCT has supported more than 72 bright young people through the First Foundation, becoming one of the programme’s biggest supporters. 

“I just know that I wouldn’t have been where I am today or have had the opportunity to help other people without the support from NZCT and First Foundation. One of the most important things was simply having this special group of people believing in me and believing I could do it.”

Karleigh O’Connor (Ngati Raukawa, Ngā Rauru, Ngati Ruanui) is another young doctor whose studies and aspirations were supported by a First Foundation scholarship from NZCT. She was recently named Te Tāura Taiea Aotearoa NZ Junior Doctor of the Year and is equally grateful she could pursue her ambitions.

“Even when I couldn’t see it, they would push me and tell me I could do these things. And that’s why I’m happy to talk about it because if someone else can be inspired in the same way, then I’m happy to be an example,” she said.

Belief is behind scholar success

Mike Knell, Chief Executive of NZCT, agrees in the power of the programme, to transform the lives of young people from a wide cross-section of society.  

Brooke says it’s not only the outcome that was fantastic but the journey itself.

“When I went down to Otago to study, it was a massive change and challenging in so many ways. I’d left home for the first time and moved to a completely different island where I had no family or anyone I knew. It was also a huge culture shock as there were very few other Māori in my cohort.

“Mike always told me it’s not only the destination that matters but how you get there. Whatever you do, it’s about more than the degree. It’s everything along the way you add to your kete: learning about yourself, how to live away from home, how to budget and pay your bills, how to be someone that gives to your community.”

NZCT distributes over $40 million in grants to thousands of charities across the country each year, from sports teams to rescue services and from community groups to arts organisations.

From Wellington to Whakatāne

Dr Karleigh O’Connor moved from the capital to Whakatāne just over two years ago, specifically to work with the large Māori population of the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

“It’s hugely rewarding. It’s pretty full-on at times, especially in the emergency room, where I am for the most part. But it is the most rewarding work I can think of. It’s a privilege to help people in what can be the most stressful moments of their lives. People trust in you.

“Your training and study kicks in, but a lot of it is just being human,” she said.

Following her BSc, she next graduated as a doctor and has also completed the subsequent two years of post-qualification practice alongside further university papers related to health system management.

O’Connor admitted the thought of attending Ōtago University was initially daunting. There were only two other students from her year at Waiopehu College who also enrolled there that year. She credits “unwavering” support from school teachers, mentors and whanau as giving her the confidence to set such goals.

The NZCT team sees transformation

Mike says supporting First Foundation Scholars is a highlight for the NZCT team.

“It’s amazing to see these young people go to university, become capable adults, and succeed in their careers, ultimately giving back to their communities.”

Ben Hodges, GM Grants, Marketing and Communications at NZCT with NZ Community Trust scholars at First Foundation’s 2024 Awards Ceremony. NZCT have sponsored 5 scholars in 2023.

The impact of NZCT’s support is evident in the stream of success stories of First Foundation scholars. Since 2008, NZCT has granted more than $1.5 million towards First Foundation scholarships. While 19 of the NZCT-funded scholars are still studying, many more have graduated and are making remarkable contributions across society:

• 34% are now healthcare professionals in frontline or support roles, strengthening the well-being of our communities. 

• 17% are driving innovation and economic growth in the business and finance sectors. 

• 7% are shaping our built environment, working in engineering and property. 

• 7% are advocating for justice and equity in the legal field. 

• 14% are inspiring the next generation as educators. 

• 3% are making a difference in the field of veterinary science. 

Mike encourages other organisations to get involved in funding First Foundation scholarships. It’s a truly life-changing programme for the scholars, their whanau and the communities they go on to serve.