The Youth Excellence Awards initiative, launched over 20 years ago, has since recognised and supported more than 260 exceptional young individuals, helping them pursue their goals and expand their opportunities. These scholarships have provided recipients with support to assist with covering a wide range of expenses—from tertiary education costs to essential sports equipment and travel—making a real difference in their lives and future prospects.
Each year, scholarships are awarded across four categories: academic excellence, sporting excellence, outstanding community service, and excellence in arts & culture. This year, we were thrilled to receive 43 nominations, all of which highlighted the dedication, passion and remarkable achievements of young people across our district. Nominations are open to the entire community, though many are thoughtfully submitted by the recipients’ schools, reflecting the high regard these students hold within their respective colleges.
On behalf of the Council, I’d like to extend our appreciation to everyone, including College Principals and staff, who took the time to nominate these deserving young people. Your commitment to recognising and nurturing talent and hard work is appreciated, as well as your support for this kaupapa.
These awards are a celebration of the dedication, hard work, and the positive impact of our district’s exceptional scholars, athletes, artists, and young volunteers who contribute so meaningfully to our community. Tonight, we recognise their drive, commitment, and the positive influence they have on those around them with a $500 award.
Youth Excellence Scholarships were awarded to:
Amelie Williamson - Art and Culture
We are delighted to recognise Amelie Williamson, a Year 12 student at Horowhenua College. Amelie has achieved outstanding success across a diverse range of performing arts, showcasing her talent in singing, musical theatre and dance.
Her dedication to musical theatre has brought her significant accolades, including two nominations at the 2023 Manawatū Regional Theatre Awards for her role as Morticia in The Addams Family Junior Musical with Hype Theatre. She was also recognised for her role as Sniff the Cat in Puss in Boots with the Levin Little Theatre, a performance that earned her a finalist position for Best Connection between Characters in a Play. Amelie’s talents extend to roles in Mamma Mia and High School Musical with the Levin Performing Arts Society.
Amelie’s musical journey is equally impressive; she is currently preparing for her Grade 7 vocal examination with the St. Cecilia Institute. She has performed solos at the Tauranga Primary Schools Music Festival, competed in Manawatū Performing Arts Singing Competitions, and sang with the Horowhenua/Waiopehu Colleges choir at the Big Sing Festival.
Since age five, Amelie has trained in dance, excelling in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and rhythmic gymnastics.
Amelie has managed to achieve all this while also maintaining a high level of academic excellence at Horowhenua College. This scholarship will support Amelie as she continues her artistic and academic journey, helping to unlock further opportunities in the arts.
Congratulations Amelie, we wish you all the very best and I’m sure we will be seeing more of you in the future.
Ataahua Hirini - Art and Culture
Mid-way through college studies, Ataahua has already shown remarkable talent and dedication to her culture, community and artistic practice. Currently pursuing Level 1 NCEA, she has plans to continue her study of art through to Level 3, demonstrating her commitment to excellence in the field.
Ataahua’s dream is to become a ta moko artist for her hapū, addressing the current shortage of ta moko artists in her region. This career path beautifully merges her passion for art and her deep connection to her culture. Ataahua’s natural talent is undeniable, but it is her diligence, hard work, and passion that truly set her apart.
The artwork created by Ataahua is not only a reflection of her talent, but also a profound expression of her cultural heritage. Each piece she creates resonates with the stories and traditions of her hapū, beautifully intertwining her identity with her art. Her use of vibrant colours, intricate designs, and meaningful motifs captures the essence of her culture, making her work both visually stunning and deeply impactful.
This award will provide Ataahua with essential art supplies to further develop her craft outside of school, contributing to her growth as an artist. Her work already surpasses expectations for her age and level, and this award will help foster her continued excellence and pursuit of her dreams.
Ataahua is an incredibly talented young woman with immense potential, and we have no doubt that she will make a significant contribution to the arts in her community.
Please join me in congratulating Ataahua on her incredible achievements and bright future, congratulations.
Irene Vehikite - Art and Culture
Irene Vehikite has had a remarkable five years at Horowhenua College which has culminated in many achievements in arts and culture, academically and in sports. Irene was the Student representative to the Board of Trustees in 2022 and 2023, and this year was Student Council Chairperson and has represented proudly as Head Girl. Irene leads by example and works hard to achieve the goals she sets for herself.
Irene’s passion for arts and culture is evident both in her performance and leadership where she is an exceptional role model to her peers. Her cultural pride shines through in her leadership of the Lototaha Pacific Culture Group. In 2024, under the co-leadership and guidance of Irene, the Group achieved first place Cultural Performance at Pasifika Fusion the regional competition, and 1st place in Dance.
Additionally, Irene has participated in the Rangatahi Ora programme where she was awarded excellence in leadership as a Rangatahi Ora Tuakana and was the leader in the House Haka competition in 2023 and 2024. Her athletic spirit is evident in volleyball, where her team won the 2023 Manawatū Regional competition and was named Sports Team of the Year.
Academically, Irene earned NCEA Level 1 with Excellence in 2022, receiving the Level 1 Waharoa Award and the Poutama Trophy for Best All-Round Year 11 Girl. Her achievements continued in 2023, when she completed NCEA Level 2 with Excellence. She is currently on track to achieve NCEA Level 3 and University Entrance.
Irene plans to commence studying towards a Bachelor of Law and Arts next year at Victoria University.
Congratulations Irene on your outstanding accomplishments, we wish you continued success in 2025.
Myah Snow - Art and Culture
Myah Snow is a Year 12 student at Waiopehu College who has shown exceptional talent and dedication in performing arts, all while excelling in academics and extra-curricular activities.
Myah has made a lasting impact on both the school and community’s performing arts scene. She played the lead role of Cosette in the Levin Performing Arts Society’s production of Les Misérables, where her powerful performance captivated audiences and critics alike, showcasing her deep commitment to her craft. Beyond theatre, Myah has excelled in music, winning the Manawatū Star Search competition, achieving high placements in national and regional barbershop competitions, and excelling in the national choir competition.
Her dedication to her art was further recognised when she was invited to visit the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Arts, where she explored her future in performing arts, solidifying her aspirations to pursue a professional career in the field.
Myah has consistently shown exceptional talent and dedication in the Performing Arts, earning multiple awards over the past three years. In 2023, her achievements included Outstanding Achievement in Drama, Attainment Awards in Music, Barbershop, Choir, and Community Theatre, as well as recognition for excellence with the Taitoko Kanikani Collective. She also represented her school nationally at the Barbershop Nationals.
Myah’s exceptional talent, dedication and versatility across multiple disciplines make her an outstanding recipient of a Horowhenua Youth Excellence Scholarship. She is undoubtedly poised to achieve great things in the arts and beyond.
Please join me in congratulating Myah on her remarkable achievements.
Bear Starstrider - Community Service
Bear Starstrider has been a dedicated volunteer at the Shannon Kai Hub Complex since June 2021, starting at the young age of 11. Over the past three years, she has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to her community, initially working in the Kai Hub, where she played a vital role in gifting food and helping meet the community’s food security needs. Known for her reliability and punctuality, Bear has covered extra shifts when needed and even worked full days on Fridays due to her home education. Her cheerful and kind presence has made her a beloved member of the team and the community.
In December 2023, Bear went the extra mile by helping pack and distribute additional food parcels for Christmas, ensuring that more families were supported during the festive season. More recently, Bear transitioned to the Op Shop, where she is learning all aspects of the service and continues to brighten the lives of customers and team members alike.
Now 14 years old, Bear remains committed to serving her community and she is set to begin another service role, packing specific food parcels for those in need. Her passion for giving back is evident in everything she does.
Beyond her work at the Kai Hub, Bear has a passion for advocacy, particularly focusing on impoverishment. She is a member of a rainbow youth group in Palmerston North and recently completed a Te Tiriti o Waitangi workshop.
Congratulations Bear for your outstanding service to the community, we can see the community is lucky to have you and you have a bright future ahead.
Torina Ngaluafe - Community Service
We proudly recognise Torina Ngaluafe for her exceptional dedication and commitment as a netball umpire – with umpiring being one of the most challenging roles in sports.
Torina understands the critical need for officials in the game, especially given their shortage and is aware of the direct impact her performance has on the quality of netball in the Horowhenua. Her steadfast commitment raises the standard of play and serves as an inspiration to younger players, encouraging them to view umpiring as an exciting and rewarding path.
In 2023 and 2024 Torina received Netball Horowhenua ‘Most Valuable Young Umpire Award, and in 2024 she received an umpiring Zone Award.
Torina’s impact goes beyond the court; she actively mentors new umpires, offering them guidance and encouragement as they begin their own umpiring journeys. Her dedication to studying theory and passing practical assessments has set her apart, as many peers who began umpiring alongside her have since stepped back, yet she remains committed to continuous improvement and development.
With ambitious goals of attaining the New Zealand Theory and eventually the NZ C Grade award, Torina demonstrates both the talent and determination needed to reach these milestones. We are confident that her passion and skill will see her excel in umpiring and make meaningful contributions to the sporting community. We wish Torina all the best in her journey towards excellence and continued growth in the world of netball officiating.
Next year Torina will commence a Bachelor of Education at Victoria University in Wellington, congratulations and all the very best for your studies in 2025.
Cole Campbell - Academia
It is with great pleasure that we recognise Cole Campbell, a Year 13 student and Head of Academics at Waiopehu College, for his exemplary academic achievements and leadership.
Cole has consistently demonstrated exceptional ability throughout his time at college, receiving numerous accolades, including the General Excellence Award in 2020 and 2021, and the Principal’s Excellence Award in both 2022 and 2023. Cole’s academic excellence was further acknowledged by the Board of Trustees Award for Academic Excellence in 2023.
In addition to excelling academically, Cole achieved First in Class for Level 3 Calculus in Year 12 and was awarded the prestigious Dave Herries Memorial Cup for Excellence in Senior Maths. His academic journey extends beyond the walls of Waiopehu College, having completed a university-level Canterbury University math paper in calculus and linear algebra with an outstanding 97.77% overall pass rate.
Cole’s pursuit of knowledge is matched by his commitment to leadership and community service. He participated in the London International Youth Science Forum, met Nobel Prize winner Sir Gregory Winter, and has volunteered his time with the Science Outreach Programme to inspire young students in the Horowhenua District. His participation in the Rotary National Science and Technology Forum and earning the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award further highlight Cole’s dedication, resilience and well-rounded abilities.
With aspirations to pursue a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Mathematics and Physics, and a keen focus on Computational Fluid Dynamics, Cole’s future is bright. In addition, he was awarded Co-Dux a the Waiopehu College Prizegiving last week.
Cole, congratulations on being awarded a Youth Excellence Award and best wishes for your studies next year.
Heer Patel - Academia
From Horowhenua College, Heer Patel is a student whose conscientious effort, dedication and hard work have consistently produced outstanding academic achievements throughout her time at college. In 2022, Heer achieved NCEA Level 1, endorsed with Excellence, and was recognised at the end-of-year prizegiving with first place in Level 1 Commerce, second in Level 1 Mathematics, and second in Level 1 Art.
Heer’s academic journey continued with remarkable success in 2023, where Heer achieved NCEA Level 2, again endorsed with Excellence. She was awarded first place in Level 2 Statistics and Sociology, second place in Level 2 Art and Chemistry, and received both an Academic Honours Award and the prestigious NUA Award for earning the most Level 2 excellence credits – an impressive 75 credits. Heer’s achievements culminated in her being named joint runner-up to the top academic student in Year 12.
Beyond her academic success, Heer has shown exceptional dedication to service. She has been actively involved in volunteer work within the college and local community, earning her the Student Volunteer Army Bronze Badge. Her leadership has been equally commendable, serving as a peer support leader, a college ambassador, and a key organiser of the 2024 College Ball.
Heer’s commitment to her school and community was further reflected in her selection as the 2024 Academic Prefect, where she successfully led academic initiatives and house competitions.
Heer, your unwavering work ethic, leadership, and selfless contributions make you an outstanding role model and we can see that your future is very bright, congratulations.
Isabel Paroli - Academia
We are delighted to recognise Isabel Paroli, a Waiopehu College student whose leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to her community makes her very deserving of this award. As Deputy Head Student and Head of Events, Isabel has demonstrated remarkable leadership and organisational skills, seamlessly managing major school events while excelling academically. Her ability to balance these demanding roles showcases her maturity, dedication, and strong time management abilities.
Since her first year, Isabel has consistently been a top performer, earning the Principal’s Excellence Award in both 2022 and 2023, along with Outstanding Achievement certificates across all subjects. Her academic dedication is evident in her early completion of NCEA Level 3 English and Architecture, both with Excellence Endorsement, while still in Year 12.
Beyond the classroom, Isabel’s accomplishments continue to inspire those around her. She was selected for the prestigious New Zealand Defence Force ‘School to Skies Programme’, aimed at encouraging young women in aviation and technology. Her involvement in the London International Youth Science Forum and ‘Space Up!’ by Women in Space Aotearoa New Zealand reflects her passion for science, technology, and space exploration.
Isabel actively advocates for youth interests, and her volunteer work with the Waiopehu College Science Outreach Programme, showcases her dedication to community service.
With aspirations to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering focused on aerospace, Isabel’s future in science and technology is exceptionally promising. Isabel was also awarded Co-Dux at Waiopehu College Prizegiving last week.
Congratulations Isabel.
Steffani Miradores - Academia
We are proud to acknowledge Steffani Miradores, a student who has consistently demonstrated academic excellence throughout her time at Horowhenua College. As a Year 11 student in 2022, Steffani achieved NCEA Level 1 endorsed with Excellence, excelling in multiple subjects such as first place in English, Science, Health, and Design and Visual Communication, as well as second in Social History. Steffani was named top academic student in Year 11.
Steffani’s academic achievements continued in Year 12, where she once again achieved NCEA Level 2 endorsed with Excellence. She received first place in English, Biology, and Design and Visual Communication, and second in Chemistry, earning her the title of top academic student for the second consecutive year. Her remarkable ability in science was recognised through her selection to attend the Otago University Advanced Schools Science Academy.
In addition to her academic achievements, Steffani has proven herself to be an invaluable member of the college community. As International Prefect in 2024, Steffani played a crucial role in supporting students from Europe, Japan and Brazil, ensuring they were welcomed and well-integrated into the school environment. Her kindness, reliability, and exceptional time management have made her a trusted and respected figure among both staff and peers.
Also, of note is that Steffani designed the Electra Business & Innovation Awards trophy this year which looked stunning. Steffani’s dedication, work ethic, and leadership have been exemplary, and we are confident that she will continue to succeed in her future academic endeavours.
Congratulations Steffani on this very well-deserved award, and all the very best for your studies next year.
Thea Pacure - Academia
We are thrilled to recognise Thea Pacure, a highly talented and dedicated student whose contributions to her college have been truly outstanding. Throughout her Year 13 at Manawatū College, Thea pursued a comprehensive academic programme, excelling in subjects such as Health, Visual Art, English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Thea's academic achievements are remarkable. As Head Student in 2024 and Academic Captain in both 2023 and 2024, she has consistently demonstrated leadership and commitment. She achieved Excellence endorsement for NCEA Level 3, completing all three levels of NCEA with Excellence endorsements. Her success in earning both Merit and Excellence endorsements across numerous courses highlights her dedication to academic excellence.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Thea has displayed exceptional leadership and compassion. She organised a mentoring programme for Year 11 students sitting external exams, helping them navigate the challenges of academic life. Her contributions to events like Youth Week reflect her ability to collaborate effectively with peers and staff, further demonstrating her organisational skills and kindness to all.
Thea’s personal drive, future goals, and determination to exceed expectations make her a true standout. She is an asset to any institution, and her remarkable achievements serve as a testament to her hard work, perseverance, and dedication. We are confident that Thea will continue to excel in all her future endeavors.
Thea, we wish you all the very best for 2025, congratulations and well done.
Johnathon Kipa-Tahu - Sport
Johnathon Kipa-Tahu is a Manawatū College student who is a remarkable young athlete, dedicated to improving his swimming strength and skills, and exceeding personal best times. His passion for swimming not only drives his own development but also inspires those around him to strive for their best.
In recent competitions, Johnathon has showcased his talent and determination, achieving significant results at the Te Kawau Swimming Carnival. His accomplishments include:
- 50m Breaststroke: Third Place
- 100m Freestyle: First Place
- 50m Butterfly: Third Place
- 50m Freestyle: Third Place
- 100m Individual Medley: Third Place
Additionally, Johnathon earned a Foxton Surf Life Saving Club Patrol Service Award and excelled in the Swimming Manawatū League One Competition, achieving the following:
- 100m Freestyle: Personal Best
- 200m Freestyle: Personal Best
- 50m Breaststroke: Third Place
- 200m Freestyle: First Place
Above all, Johnathon joins in with the team management, coaches and fellow team members and he immerses himself within the team environment and culture.
Johnathon is committed to furthering his swimming journey and plans to use the award funds for entry fees and travel expenses to various swim meets. I am confident that with continued encouragement and resources, Johnathon will achieve even greater heights in his swimming career and serve as an inspiration to others.
Congratulations and well done Johno.
Jorja Horn - Sport
It is with great pleasure that we acknowledge Jorja Horn, a talented athlete whose impressive achievements in Football and Futsal reflect her exceptional dedication and skill. Jorja began her journey in sports with the Manawatū Reps at the Federation Talent Centre, where she earned multiple MVP awards in 2014 and 2017, along with the Players Player title in 2019.
At Levin AFC Junior, she was recognised as the Most Promising Junior Female in 2019 and Youth Player of the Year in 2021. At Horowhenua College, Jorja showcased her leadership as Captain of the 1st XI Football team for 2023/24 and received the Wally Graves Cup for Best Performance in both 2021 and 2022. Her dedication was further recognised with the Armstrong Trophy for Most Improved Year 10 in 2021.
Jorja has represented New Zealand Secondary Schools Football in Futsal in 2022 and 2023 and participated in Tournament Week Football for three consecutive years. She was a key player for the Levin AFC Women's 1st Team in 2021, achieving Top Goal Scorer and Most Promising Player honours.
On the national stage, Jorja contributed to the Central Districts Futsal Team U16, achieving 3rd place at the Youth Futsal Nationals, and represented Palmerston North Marist U19 in the Lotto U19 Nationals in 2023.
Jorja’s commitment to excellence makes her an inspiring role model for her peers. Congratulations Jorja on your outstanding list of achievements and all the very best for the future.
Lazzoryss Tovo - Sport
We are thrilled to recognise the outstanding achievements of Lazzoryss Tovo, also known as Lazzy. His dedication and talent across multiple sports makes him a deserving recipient of a Youth Excellence Award in Sport.
Lazzy’s skill and commitment have been showcased as a key player for the Manawatū U19 Basketball team, where his leadership helped secure a silver medal at the National Regional Championships. His on-court prowess and strategic gameplay were instrumental in this achievement, underscoring his capacity to excel at high levels of competition.
At Waiopehu College, Lazzy has been an integral part of the Senior A Basketball team since 2022, following a successful tenure with the Junior A team. His impact on the court extends beyond personal accolades; he fosters team spirit and consistently motivates those around him.
His contributions earnt him nominations for the General Sporting Excellence Award and the prestigious Dux Ludorum at Waiopehu College, alongside Sporting Excellence awards in both Senior and Junior Basketball categories.
Lazzy’s athletic versatility shines through in Rugby as well. He is a dedicated member of the Waiopehu College First XV Rugby team and was recently selected for the Horowhenua Kāpiti U18 Rugby team, as well as the U18 Rugby League for Levin Wanderers.
Known for his interpersonal skills and great humour, Lazzy is a supportive teammate and an inspiration to younger players, embodying true sportsmanship. His commitment to nurturing future athletes reflects his passion for sports and community.
Congratulations Lazzy on your remarkable achievements, and all the very best for 2025.
Minnie Collins - Sport
We are thrilled to acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of Minnie Collins.
Minnie is an exceptional young athlete with a bright future in Cycling. Her dedication and passion for her sport are evident through her continuous commitment to training and competition at the highest levels. Minnie’s focus is on achieving elite status within New Zealand Cycling, and her short- and long-term goals are a testament to her determination.
Minnie recently earned third place at the School Track Nationals and was accepted into New Zealand High Performance Sport last week. With these achievements, she is now focused on the upcoming National Track Championships in February 2025—a crucial qualifier for the Junior World Track Championships in Amsterdam. Minnie’s long-term goal remains to represent New Zealand on the world stage, aspiring to compete in both the Olympic and Commonwealth Games—a dream she has worked towards for over two years and is now within reach.
In February 2025, Minnie will travel to Brisbane to compete in the Oceania Track Championships, followed by the Track National Championships in the same month. These competitions represent critical milestones in her journey to achieving international success and realising her dreams.
Minnie’s unwavering commitment, combined with her remarkable achievements in Cycling, make her a truly deserving candidate for the Horowhenua Youth Excellence Award. She is a shining example of youth excellence and a proud representative of her community.
Congratulations Minnie, we wish you all the very best in your endeavours.
Rawiri Tristram-Brown - Sport
We are delighted to recognise Rawiri Tristram-Brown, a dedicated athlete whose accomplishments in Wheelchair Basketball and Swimming showcase his remarkable determination and talent. Rawiri is a Year 10 student at Horowhenua College.
In February 2024, Rawiri received an invitation to train with New Zealand’s Roller Blacks, marking a significant milestone in his athletic career. By May 2024, he secured a spot on the Northland A Team in the National League, where he made a successful debut, impressing both teammates and competitors alike. His commitment to excellence was further demonstrated at his first training camp with the Roller Blacks in July 2024, where he refined his skills at an elite level.
In addition to his achievements in Basketball, Rawiri consistently excels in Swimming on both national and international stages. He earned a Bronze medal in the 50m Backstroke at the NZ Short Course Swimming Champs in December 2023 and secured another Bronze in the 400m Freestyle at the Victoria State Champs in Australia in February 2024. His impressive performances continued in April 2024 at the NZ Age Group Swimming Champs, where he placed in multiple events, and again in August with a Bronze at the NZ Short Course Swim Champs.
Rawiri’s has set himself many goals including Paralympic qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Games and was last week awarded Champion Male Athlete with Disabilities at the Sport Manawatū Awards, a massive accomplishment.
Congratulations, Rawiri, we are very proud of you and look forward to hearing about your journey as you reach new heights and inspire others along the way.
Isabel Paroli - Academia
We are delighted to recognise Isabel Paroli, a Waiopehu College student whose leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to her community makes her very deserving of this award. As Deputy Head Student and Head of Events, Isabel has demonstrated remarkable leadership and organisational skills, seamlessly managing major school events while excelling academically. Her ability to balance these demanding roles showcases her maturity, dedication, and strong time management abilities.
Since her first year, Isabel has consistently been a top performer, earning the Principal’s Excellence Award in both 2022 and 2023, along with Outstanding Achievement certificates across all subjects. Her academic dedication is evident in her early completion of NCEA Level 3 English and Architecture, both with Excellence Endorsement, while still in Year 12.
Beyond the classroom, Isabel’s accomplishments continue to inspire those around her. She was selected for the prestigious New Zealand Defence Force ‘School to Skies Programme’, aimed at encouraging young women in aviation and technology. Her involvement in the London International Youth Science Forum and ‘Space Up!’ by Women in Space Aotearoa New Zealand reflects her passion for science, technology, and space exploration.
Isabel actively advocates for youth interests, and her volunteer work with the Waiopehu College Science Outreach Programme, showcases her dedication to community service.
With aspirations to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering focused on aerospace, Isabel’s future in science and technology is exceptionally promising. Isabel was also awarded Co-Dux at Waiopehu College Prizegiving last week.
Congratulations Isabel.
Steffani Miradores - Academia
We are proud to acknowledge Steffani Miradores, a student who has consistently demonstrated academic excellence throughout her time at Horowhenua College. As a Year 11 student in 2022, Steffani achieved NCEA Level 1 endorsed with Excellence, excelling in multiple subjects such as first place in English, Science, Health, and Design and Visual Communication, as well as second in Social History. Steffani was named top academic student in Year 11.
Steffani’s academic achievements continued in Year 12, where she once again achieved NCEA Level 2 endorsed with Excellence. She received first place in English, Biology, and Design and Visual Communication, and second in Chemistry, earning her the title of top academic student for the second consecutive year. Her remarkable ability in science was recognised through her selection to attend the Otago University Advanced Schools Science Academy.
In addition to her academic achievements, Steffani has proven herself to be an invaluable member of the college community. As International Prefect in 2024, Steffani played a crucial role in supporting students from Europe, Japan and Brazil, ensuring they were welcomed and well-integrated into the school environment. Her kindness, reliability, and exceptional time management have made her a trusted and respected figure among both staff and peers.
Also, of note is that Steffani designed the Electra Business & Innovation Awards trophy this year which looked stunning. Steffani’s dedication, work ethic, and leadership have been exemplary, and we are confident that she will continue to succeed in her future academic endeavours.
Congratulations Steffani on this very well-deserved award, and all the very best for your studies next year.
Thea Pacure - Academia
We are thrilled to recognise Thea Pacure, a highly talented and dedicated student whose contributions to her college have been truly outstanding. Throughout her Year 13 at Manawatū College, Thea pursued a comprehensive academic programme, excelling in subjects such as Health, Visual Art, English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Thea's academic achievements are remarkable. As Head Student in 2024 and Academic Captain in both 2023 and 2024, she has consistently demonstrated leadership and commitment. She achieved Excellence endorsement for NCEA Level 3, completing all three levels of NCEA with Excellence endorsements. Her success in earning both Merit and Excellence endorsements across numerous courses highlights her dedication to academic excellence.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Thea has displayed exceptional leadership and compassion. She organised a mentoring programme for Year 11 students sitting external exams, helping them navigate the challenges of academic life. Her contributions to events like Youth Week reflect her ability to collaborate effectively with peers and staff, further demonstrating her organisational skills and kindness to all.
Thea’s personal drive, future goals, and determination to exceed expectations make her a true standout. She is an asset to any institution, and her remarkable achievements serve as a testament to her hard work, perseverance, and dedication. We are confident that Thea will continue to excel in all her future endeavors.
Thea, we wish you all the very best for 2025, congratulations and well done.
Johnathon Kipa-Tahu - Sport
Johnathon Kipa-Tahu is a Manawatū College student who is a remarkable young athlete, dedicated to improving his swimming strength and skills, and exceeding personal best times. His passion for swimming not only drives his own development but also inspires those around him to strive for their best.
In recent competitions, Johnathon has showcased his talent and determination, achieving significant results at the Te Kawau Swimming Carnival. His accomplishments include:
- 50m Breaststroke: Third Place
- 100m Freestyle: First Place
- 50m Butterfly: Third Place
- 50m Freestyle: Third Place
- 100m Individual Medley: Third Place
Additionally, Johnathon earned a Foxton Surf Life Saving Club Patrol Service Award and excelled in the Swimming Manawatū League One Competition, achieving the following:
- 100m Freestyle: Personal Best
- 200m Freestyle: Personal Best
- 50m Breaststroke: Third Place
- 200m Freestyle: First Place
Above all, Johnathon joins in with the team management, coaches and fellow team members and he immerses himself within the team environment and culture.
Johnathon is committed to furthering his swimming journey and plans to use the award funds for entry fees and travel expenses to various swim meets. I am confident that with continued encouragement and resources, Johnathon will achieve even greater heights in his swimming career and serve as an inspiration to others.
Congratulations and well done Johno.
Jorja Horn - Sport
It is with great pleasure that we acknowledge Jorja Horn, a talented athlete whose impressive achievements in Football and Futsal reflect her exceptional dedication and skill. Jorja began her journey in sports with the Manawatū Reps at the Federation Talent Centre, where she earned multiple MVP awards in 2014 and 2017, along with the Players Player title in 2019.
At Levin AFC Junior, she was recognised as the Most Promising Junior Female in 2019 and Youth Player of the Year in 2021. At Horowhenua College, Jorja showcased her leadership as Captain of the 1st XI Football team for 2023/24 and received the Wally Graves Cup for Best Performance in both 2021 and 2022. Her dedication was further recognised with the Armstrong Trophy for Most Improved Year 10 in 2021.
Jorja has represented New Zealand Secondary Schools Football in Futsal in 2022 and 2023 and participated in Tournament Week Football for three consecutive years. She was a key player for the Levin AFC Women's 1st Team in 2021, achieving Top Goal Scorer and Most Promising Player honours.
On the national stage, Jorja contributed to the Central Districts Futsal Team U16, achieving 3rd place at the Youth Futsal Nationals, and represented Palmerston North Marist U19 in the Lotto U19 Nationals in 2023.
Jorja’s commitment to excellence makes her an inspiring role model for her peers. Congratulations Jorja on your outstanding list of achievements and all the very best for the future.
Lazzoryss Tovo - Sport
We are thrilled to recognise the outstanding achievements of Lazzoryss Tovo, also known as Lazzy. His dedication and talent across multiple sports makes him a deserving recipient of a Youth Excellence Award in Sport.
Lazzy’s skill and commitment have been showcased as a key player for the Manawatū U19 Basketball team, where his leadership helped secure a silver medal at the National Regional Championships. His on-court prowess and strategic gameplay were instrumental in this achievement, underscoring his capacity to excel at high levels of competition.
At Waiopehu College, Lazzy has been an integral part of the Senior A Basketball team since 2022, following a successful tenure with the Junior A team. His impact on the court extends beyond personal accolades; he fosters team spirit and consistently motivates those around him.
His contributions earnt him nominations for the General Sporting Excellence Award and the prestigious Dux Ludorum at Waiopehu College, alongside Sporting Excellence awards in both Senior and Junior Basketball categories.
Lazzy’s athletic versatility shines through in Rugby as well. He is a dedicated member of the Waiopehu College First XV Rugby team and was recently selected for the Horowhenua Kāpiti U18 Rugby team, as well as the U18 Rugby League for Levin Wanderers.
Known for his interpersonal skills and great humour, Lazzy is a supportive teammate and an inspiration to younger players, embodying true sportsmanship. His commitment to nurturing future athletes reflects his passion for sports and community.
Congratulations Lazzy on your remarkable achievements, and all the very best for 2025.
Minnie Collins - Sport
We are thrilled to acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of Minnie Collins.
Minnie is an exceptional young athlete with a bright future in Cycling. Her dedication and passion for her sport are evident through her continuous commitment to training and competition at the highest levels. Minnie’s focus is on achieving elite status within New Zealand Cycling, and her short- and long-term goals are a testament to her determination.
Minnie recently earned third place at the School Track Nationals and was accepted into New Zealand High Performance Sport last week. With these achievements, she is now focused on the upcoming National Track Championships in February 2025—a crucial qualifier for the Junior World Track Championships in Amsterdam. Minnie’s long-term goal remains to represent New Zealand on the world stage, aspiring to compete in both the Olympic and Commonwealth Games—a dream she has worked towards for over two years and is now within reach.
In February 2025, Minnie will travel to Brisbane to compete in the Oceania Track Championships, followed by the Track National Championships in the same month. These competitions represent critical milestones in her journey to achieving international success and realising her dreams.
Minnie’s unwavering commitment, combined with her remarkable achievements in Cycling, make her a truly deserving candidate for the Horowhenua Youth Excellence Award. She is a shining example of youth excellence and a proud representative of her community.
Congratulations Minnie, we wish you all the very best in your endeavours.
Rawiri Tristram-Brown - Sport
We are delighted to recognise Rawiri Tristram-Brown, a dedicated athlete whose accomplishments in Wheelchair Basketball and Swimming showcase his remarkable determination and talent. Rawiri is a Year 10 student at Horowhenua College.
In February 2024, Rawiri received an invitation to train with New Zealand’s Roller Blacks, marking a significant milestone in his athletic career. By May 2024, he secured a spot on the Northland A Team in the National League, where he made a successful debut, impressing both teammates and competitors alike. His commitment to excellence was further demonstrated at his first training camp with the Roller Blacks in July 2024, where he refined his skills at an elite level.
In addition to his achievements in Basketball, Rawiri consistently excels in Swimming on both national and international stages. He earned a Bronze medal in the 50m Backstroke at the NZ Short Course Swimming Champs in December 2023 and secured another Bronze in the 400m Freestyle at the Victoria State Champs in Australia in February 2024. His impressive performances continued in April 2024 at the NZ Age Group Swimming Champs, where he placed in multiple events, and again in August with a Bronze at the NZ Short Course Swim Champs.
Rawiri’s has set himself many goals including Paralympic qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Games and was last week awarded Champion Male Athlete with Disabilities at the Sport Manawatū Awards, a massive accomplishment.
Congratulations, Rawiri, we are very proud of you and look forward to hearing about your journey as you reach new heights and inspire others along the way.