Mikayla brings energy, excellence, and empathy to everything she does. A top student two years running, she balances study with being a single mum, carer, and part-time worker—always showing up with a smile and a solution-focused mindset. Her leadership as Agency Director and student rep reflects her generosity in sharing knowledge and uplifting others. Mikayla embraces new challenges, from volunteering at arts festivals to featuring in regional campaigns, all while excelling academically. Her drive to grow, support her peers, and give back to the community makes her a standout learner and a future asset to the creative communications industry.

Caroline exemplifies generosity, perseverance, and community spirit. A dedicated landscape design student, she brings warmth and enthusiasm to every class—often initiating extra Zoom sessions to support her peers. Her commitment to learning is matched by her compassion, as seen when she gave up study time to support a fellow student in medical distress. Caroline shares resources, asks thoughtful questions, and uplifts others with sincere encouragement. Balancing study with family life and extensive volunteer work, she contributes to charities, repair cafés, and children’s hospitals. Her passion for heritage and design makes her a truly inspiring adult learner.

Amandeep’s dedication, resilience, and quiet leadership have made a lasting impact on her classmates and tutors. Commuting daily from Auckland to Hamilton—often after night shifts and family duties—she consistently arrived early, ready to learn and support others. Her determination inspired her cohort, contributing to one of the highest pass rates to date. Amandeep shares her life experiences generously, offering guidance to new arrivals to the country and encouragement to those facing personal challenges. Her willingness to tackle unfamiliar topics and adapt to academic expectations shows true courage. Balancing work, study, parenting, and volunteer service, Amandeep is a role model for adult learners.

Max is a driven and generous learner whose passion for arboriculture lifts everyone around him. He relocated from Wellington, putting his business on hold and investing personally to pursue his studies—showing unwavering commitment despite setbacks. Max’s curiosity and thoughtful questions challenge both classmates and tutors to think deeper. He supports others through study groups and practical climbing sessions, helping build confidence and competence. Always eager to explore new techniques, Max leads by example and shares his knowledge freely. His volunteer work and dedication to learning make him a standout student and a valued member of the learning community.

Julie is a passionate and curious learner whose enthusiasm for science is both inspiring and contagious. Her creative approach to learning and consistent engagement elevate classroom discussions and motivate her peers. Despite no prior background in science, Julie has excelled through meticulous study and determination. She leads with empathy, supports others in group work, and shares her insights generously. Her ability to connect theory with real-world applications fosters deeper thinking and collaboration. Balancing study with a busy life, Julie’s professionalism, leadership, and commitment to excellence make her a standout adult learner and a role model too her peers.

Gabby is a courageous and inspiring learner whose passion for accounting, and commitment to growth, light up the classroom. A solo mother who left a secure job to pursue her dream, she brings infectious enthusiasm, academic excellence, and real-world insight to her studies. Gabby uplifts others as a peer tutor, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand representative, and mentor—creating inclusive spaces and encouraging bold thinking. Her acceptance into an international exchange programme reflects her drive to challenge herself and inspire others. Balancing parenting, work, and leadership, Gabby is a role model whose journey embodies resilience, purpose, and the power of lifelong learning.

Taylor is a dynamic and driven learner whose creativity and leadership shine in every project. A solo parent to five, she balances whānau life with full-time study, consistently producing high-quality design work and mentoring younger ākonga. Her enthusiasm is contagious, motivating others to engage and explore new ideas. Taylor actively connects classroom learning with industry, attends professional events, and shares strategies for success. Her commitment to representing Te Ao Māori in design adds depth and cultural richness to her work. Taylor’s resilience, generosity, and passion make her an exceptional adult learner and a strong force in the creative community.

Amelia is a passionate and resilient learner whose love for animal care shines through in every aspect of her journey. Balancing full-time study, part-time work, and raising her tamariki, she brings energy, empathy, and excellence to the classroom and clinic alike. Her enthusiasm inspires peers, while her leadership and cultural grounding create inclusive, supportive learning spaces. Amelia shares her knowledge generously, encourages others with humility, and consistently challenges herself to grow. Her commitment to integrating Te Ao Māori into veterinary practice adds depth to her work, making her a role model and an exceptional adult learner.