PUBLISHED JUNE 2026

Potential is everywhere funding is not

This year 88 rangatahi crossed the stage at our Night of Firsts. We also said no to 86, every one already shortlisted, talented, ready. This is the story of the potential behind that number, and how you can help open the next door.

The 86 we couldn’t say yes to

A young Tongan woman from Auckland, first in her family, who wants to be a midwife. A young Samoan man in Canterbury studying chemistry. A student from Gisborne who wants to serve the region that needs her.

Eighty-six per cent would have been first in their family to attend university. Half are Māori or Pasifika, from Northland to Nelson. One in three wants to work in health and medicine.

Their talent is ready to go. They’re locked out by circumstance, not by ability.

It took First Foundation 27 years to reach our first 1,000 scholars. We’ve committed to the next 1,000 by 2030. We’re 200 in, and there are still 800 more doors to open. We don’t want to say no to another 86 each year, especially when they’re exactly who we’re trying to reach.  

A scholarship costs $7,000 a year, $28,000 over four years. Every scholar earns a million dollars more over their working life. Aotearoa gets $39 back for every dollar invested.

The gains transform families, communities and every generation thereafter. 

If you’re committed to making a difference, you want to see more than a donation receipt at the end of the year.

A giving circle lets you meet your scholar and follow their journey. Four people contribute $1,750 each a year; six people just $1,167.

Together, four people can do this contributing $1,750 each a year. With six people, $1,167. The more people in your circle, the easier it becomes. But best of all, that young person will know exactly who showed up for them.

Find out how collective giving works and take the next step today.

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