Aalyana is an entrepreneur and advocate for cultural connection, community empowerment, and indigenous wellbeing. As a daughter, wife, māmā, friend, and leader, Aalyana continues to weave her values of faith, honesty, aroha, and kaitiakitanga into every part of her life. This passionate trailblazer’s whakapapa connects her to the beautiful islands of Sāmoa and Tahiti. She seeks opportunities to deepen her connection to her own cultural roots while embracing the wisdom of other indigenous traditions, believing that shared knowledge can help us heal, thrive and connect. 

As the founder of I Mahi Ora, Aalyana is leading a transformative initiative that reimagines health and wellbeing for Māori and Pasifika young adults through indigenous frameworks. Her vision is to positively influence health statistics by creating resources that are culturally inclusive and accessible. She believes in working towards solutions that can transform lives and communities. Aalyana has navigated many personal and family health challenges with resilience and mana. She recognises the systemic disparities in Māori and Pasifika health outcomes and is inspired by those around her and her ancestors. Aalyana’s journey through personal and health challenges has shaped her mission to uplift others through culturally grounded, inclusive solutions. 

"Mā mua ka kite a muri, mā muri ka ora a mua - Those who lead give sight to those who follow, those who follow give life to those who lead."

Aarthi is a South Asian New Zealander and multifaceted changemaker passionate about youth voice and leadership, elevating stories and lived experiences, and serving marginalised communities. From a young age, Aarthi has always been curious to seek and make the most of opportunities with big hopes and aspirations to see representation in leadership spaces. Now she hopes to help others do the same. Her heart for people and change, is reflected in her service as Youth MP for Ōhāriu, Head Student at Newlands College and the Founder of Youth 4 Climate Action NZ. Aarthi also works with Voice of Aroha, Create Happy Media, Wellington Youth Charity Ball, Gen Z Aotearoa, Wellington City Council and Volunteer Wellington.

At 17 years old, Aarthi led a team of 25 students to bring TEDxYouth@Paparangi to life, an event that celebrated the voices of young people across Aotearoa to speak about how they were ‘Rewriting the Narrative.’ The event featured a diverse range of youth speakers, with over 150 attendees, and sparked ideas and change across Aotearoa and beyond. 

Ultimately, Aarthi’s vision is for the voices of youth to be at the forefront in all decisions, as leaders of today and ancestors of tomorrow. 

"The future isn't something we enter; it's something we actively shape through the courage to speak up and the will to lead."

Aimee (刘凌华) was born in Guiyang, China, and grew up in mighty Manurewa, South Auckland. As a first-generation migrant daughter, she knows all about the balancing act between honouring her parents’ sacrifices and following her own path, choosing between security and creating change. In 2025, her focus is on building capacity, growing her skills, supporting others, and finding ways to make a meaningful impact. 

She’s currently studying for a Master of Mathematical Modelling at Waipapa Taumata Rau / University of Auckland, while serving Aotearoa's only student-run science magazine. With a background in Physics and Politics & International Relations, Aimee loves working at the intersection of science and social issues, using practical tools to understand and tackle big global problems. She’s also part of the 2025 Kupe Leadership Scholarship cohort, a year-long programme that supports young leaders across Aotearoa. 

Growing up, Aimee was always diving into new things. From writing poetry and fiction and visual art to music and dancing (which she admits is getting a little rusty), her creative passions are a big part of who she is. This talented STEM superstar hopes to combine her hobbies and interests with her academia in a fruitful, impactful way. 

‘Make more art! When you're stressed and overwhelmed, it always calms you down. And you have more time than you think.’ 

Amber is a young community-minded changemaker on a mission to help our precious planet survive, along with the humans who are privileged enough to live on it. As a high school student in the beautiful Ngāmotu, Amber is deeply connected to te taiao. She is driven by a love for the environment and a commitment to protecting it through conservation, climate action, and STEM. Her goal is to become a leading environmental scientist, conducting climate change research around the globe while inspiring others, especially other wāhine, to find their voice and follow their passions. 

This dedicated 18-year-old has big dreams and is focused on bridging the gap between Western science and indigenous knowledge, weaving her research alongside mātauranga Māori to support and restore Aotearoa’s unique flora and fauna. Her work is rooted not only in scientific rigour but also in cultural respect and community care. 

Outside of school and environmental pursuits, Amber is actively involved in her community. Whether she’s volunteering with Conductive Education, performing on stage, knee deep in rivers testing water, or covered in penguin poop, she brings energy, optimism, and heart to everything she does. She also enjoys running, spending time with whānau and friends, and travelling whenever she can.  

‘Try not to get caught up in what everyone else is doing, do what makes you happy and use your strengths to make the world that little bit better.’ 

Annabel is an intersectional advocate, storyteller, and rare disease survivor deeply committed to inclusion and equity. Driven by lived experience, Annabel’s advocacy journey began at just seven years of age when she wrote to New Zealand's Prime Minister about the lack of captioning in media. This amazing trailblazer hasn’t stopped since then, advocating for equity and authentic inclusion, whenever and wherever she can. In 2017, she became the youngest person at that time to present to a Parliamentary Select Committee in Aotearoa. Four years later, in 2021, Annabel was recognised as the New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Youth Champion for her work raising awareness of NZSL. 

Currently, Annabel is studying a conjoint Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Development Studies at Te Herenga Waka / Victoria University of Wellington. Once she graduates, Annabel will be the first Deaf person to be admitted to the New Zealand Bar. A few years ago, Annabel’s speech challenging the societal biases of ableism went viral on Facebook. This intersectional changemaker continues to use every platform and daily interaction to work together to generate understanding, challenge prejudice, and advocate for meaningful inclusion in every space she’s in.

“Your voice (and hands!) matter and have the potential to transform. If you feel strongly about something, fight for it.” 

Anne is a dedicated advocate for gender equality, youth empowerment, and global diplomacy. This zealous young woman has led important initiatives, coordinating the UN Women’s 16 Days of Activism, leading a mentorship program for young women in Egypt through The Valuable Girl Project, and speaking up, raising awareness of the ongoing devastating harms of child trafficking.

With a background working in international child protection, Anne has handled complex, cross-border cases, ensuring the rights and safety of vulnerable children. As former Secretary of the United Nations Association of New Zealand (UNANZ), she champions youth participation in global governance and fosters meaningful diplomatic partnerships. Anne's experience includes strategic advocacy and public diplomacy roles with organisations like Amnesty International, as well as diplomatic missions, including the French Embassy and the EU Delegation.

Alongside diplomatic consultations and finishing off her master’s in international relations and diplomacy at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha / University of Canterbury, Anne’s also passionate about grassroots community-building. As a Residential Advisor at Te Herenga Waka / Victoria University of Wellington, she’s supported students from diverse backgrounds, nurturing inclusive and supportive living environments. Whether working in high-pressure policy settings, advising diplomats, or mentoring emerging leaders, Anne brings a deep commitment to gender equity, empathy, and global connection to everything she does. 

"Your identity doesn’t have to fit into any box. Feel the strength in your individuality and the power of community."

Aria (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa, Rongomaiwahine, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui) is a proud wahine Māori and emerging researcher. In her final year of a conjoint Law and Science degree at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington, her work is grounded in her whakapapa and a commitment to empowering Indigenous voices and perspectives in different spaces. Aria is Co-Tumuaki (President) of Ngāi Tauira, the Māori Students' Association, where she advocates for tauira Māori and strives for Te Tiriti-based collaboration across the university and in tertiary education.

Aria's passion for systemic change is evident in her work and recent research with Ngā Pae o Te Māramatanga, looking at the intersection between climate change, Indigenous food sovereignty, and mental health. Her insightful mahi, including publications in the Māori Law Review, demonstrates her dedication to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and promoting self-determination for Indigenous Peoples and marginalised communities in Aotearoa and across the world. By taking a holistic, interdisciplinary approach, Aria strives to contribute to creating a world that is more just and equitable. Her leadership, intellect, and passion make her a compelling voice for positive change in Aotearoa. 

"Trust in yourself, you are everything your tūpuna dreamed of and more!"

Ashley is a young tamaitai Samoa from South Auckland, deeply passionate about her communities. Hailing from Afega, Matatufu, Fasitootai, and Vailuutai in Samoa, and raised in Ōtara, Ashley is a storyteller and world-builder. Her passion lies in sharing the histories, experiences and stories from within her communities, with a particular focus on the experiences of Samoan women.   

With a Masters in Pacific Studies from Waipapa Taumata Rau / University of Auckland, Ashley’s exploration of Indigenous knowledge, epistemologies and experiences allows her to help communities reconnect with their cultures, knowledge and histories. She brings this to life through delivering Siva Samoa community workshops, an important part of knowledge sharing and a natural extension of her passion for culture, community, and storytelling. Ashley believes our strength lies within whakapapa, a foundation that can never be shaken by any system, structure, or power.  

With experience as a journalist and now working within our South Auckland communities, Ashley embodies the Samoan proverb, ‘E au le Inailau a Tamaitai Samoa,’ which tells us that a Samoan woman’s strength allows our people to unlock their potential. 

"Take your time and don't be afraid to try things, maybe suck at it, and then pivot. That's where the magic happens."

Buua is a trailblazing advocate for Pacific youth, igniting opportunities and amplifying voices. As an I-Kiribati changemaker, she spearheads nationwide initiatives in youth leadership, climate change, governance, and financial empowerment. Through Ara Maneaba & Rotin Manukau Youth she tackled a major hurdle by providing free programs across Aotearoa for Kiribati youth with limited access to driver’s licences, unlocking employment and education doors. Buua's also led mental health workshops for I-Kiribati families, creating a safe space for young people and parents to exchange anonymous letters about their struggles, fostering healing and honest conversations. 

Her mission to break cycles of hardship and foster collective growth is deeply rooted in her experiences within Pacific communities and inspired by her mother's unwavering love and resilience. She brings this passion into her role as Events Lead for Multiethnic Young Leaders NZ, where she curates meaningful spaces that celebrate cultural diversity, and empower rangatahi to connect, grow, and lead.

Driven by the whakataukī, ‘E tū ki te kei o te waka, kia pakia koe e ngā ngaru o te wā.’  Buua’s work is a powerful reminder that community collaboration drives real change. By standing in the gaps and believing in people's potential, Buua’s an unstoppable force for good. 

"Hold yourself to your values and don't let your light be diminished."

Ceilidh is a proud Niuean academic with a deep passion for Indigenous knowledge and history. She is committed to uncovering and sharing Niuean history through a Niuean lens, aiming to revitalise cultural narratives and ensure future generations take pride in their heritage and language. Her academic work is closely tied to her whakapapa, grounding her identity and fuelling her advocacy and passion for Indigenous communities. 

As a queer Pasifika person, Ceilidh has navigated the intersectionality of being both queer and Niuean, which motivates her dedication to creating inclusive, supportive spaces. Her parents instilled in her the importance of serving and supporting the community, values she channels into her work today. 

In her role as Pasifika Programme Coordinator for Rainbow Hub Waikato, Ceilidh helped establish one of the first Pasifika MVPFAFF+ Rainbow spaces in the Waikato, providing an important visible and empowering space for queer Pasifika individuals. Through her work, she ensures that people can embrace their identities without compromise and embody the dreams of their ancestors. Ceilidh’s passion for both her Niuean and queer communities, alongside her dedication to academia, drives her to create spaces where these identities are celebrated, valued, and nurtured. 

"Rejection is simply redirection. If something is meant for you, it will find its way to you!"

Eleanor is a medical student, researcher, science communicator and community leader passionate about bridging the gaps between healthcare, research, and community service. Currently pursuing her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka / the University of Otago, she previously completed a Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours), focusing on optimising emergency department management of low-risk chest pain patients. Her research has been published and presented at national and international conferences. 

Beyond medicine, Eleanor is the President of the Student Volunteer Army Otago, where she has led initiatives to engage students in high-impact volunteering, strengthening community partnerships and increasing participation. She also mentors aspiring medical students. Science communication is another passion for this trailblazer, and she’s worked with Nanogirl, Khan Academy, and Science Alive to bring science to life and making complex medical concepts accessible to wider audiences. 

Whether in a hospital setting, a research project, or a volunteer initiative, Eleanor is driven by a desire to make a tangible impact on individuals and systems, always seeking ways to improve healthcare delivery and community wellbeing. This dedicated young student is committed to lifelong learning, leadership, and using evidence-based healthcare research and service to create meaningful impact. 

"Break that glass ceiling!"

Tia (Ngāti Apa, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa; Vailoa Aleipata, Fasito'o Uta, Moata'a, Manono Tai, Sapapali'i, Falelima – Savai’i) is a 22-year-old māmā, student, and community leader. She is currently studying at Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka / The University of Otago while raising her tama, who has been a powerful inspiration in her journey of growth, leadership, and service. Becoming a mother at 18 deepened Tia’s drive to create positive change and build a nurturing village for her whānau and wider community. 

She is actively engaged in a range of kaupapa including The Hive, Talavou Village, and university-based networks. She has served as Te Aka Mātauraka (Academic Officer) for the Otago Māori Humanities Students' Association, Vice-President of the Otago Cook Islands Students' Association, and is a Komiti member for Te Manaaki o Tamariki Kōhanga Reo. 

With passions spanning rugby, cultural arts, and her faith as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Tia centres her mahi on uplifting others. She is committed to building spaces of belonging, resilience, and empowerment, demonstrating through her leadership and example the strength of young wāhine Māori and Pasifika in action.  

"Your life may look nothing like the one you imagined and everything like the one you were made for."

Ivy (Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Wairere, Samoa – Falefā, Tonga – Vava’u) is a proud wahine Māori creative, leader, and advocate from Papakura, South Auckland. Deeply committed to the rights and wellbeing of Māori and Pasifika communities, Ivy uses both her mahi and her spoken word poetry to uplift and empower others. She currently works as a cultural practitioner at Te Whare Hinatore, supporting wāhine experiencing housing insecurity through mentorship and holistic guidance. 

With experience at Talavou Village assisting Māori and Pasifika in accessing health care and as a member of YAAG under Village Collective, Ivy’s community involvement is grounded in lived experience and heart-led service. In addition, she served as a Board of Trustees representative, was named Dux, and was the top Māori student at her high school. 

The first in her whānau to attend university, Ivy is a recipient of the First Foundation Scholarship, which supports tauira into tertiary study. This talented storyteller is studying a BA in History and Māori Media at Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makaurau / AUT. Her journey has not been without challenges, but they’ve shaped her into a powerful advocate for indigenous equity. Ivy shares her truth through spoken word, founding a poetry club to encourage others to do the same. She aspires to become a lecturer and filmmaker, continuing to tell stories that matter. 

"Pour love into yourself the way you pour love into others - service without reciprocity is a strain on one's hauora." 

Katie-Rose is a proud 19-year-old wahine, half-Samoan and half-Pākeha, born and raised in South Auckland. She is an emerging advocate for neurodiversity, gender equity, and cultural inclusion in Aotearoa. A founding member of the Young Neurodiversity Champions (YNC), Katie-Rose took her voice straight to Parliament, contributing to white papers, campaigns like Unlocking the Enormous Potential of Neurodiverse Learners, and the Neurodiversity in Education Coalition Project, impacting over 500 families nationwide. 

Currently in her second year at Waipapa Taumata Rau / The University of Auckland studying Environmental Science and Psychology, Katie-Rose blends academic knowledge with lived experience to champion systemic change. Her advocacy has earned her national recognition, including Young East Aucklander of the Year (2023), Zonta’s Young Woman in Public Affairs Award (2023), and features in the Education Gazette, podcasts, and exhibitions like Tales of Our Wāhine. 

Katie-Rose also channels her activism through the performing arts. She starred in Hine Te Rēhia with Tuatara Collective, exploring identity, women's autonomy, and environmental justice. With courage, creativity, and talent, this multifaceted trailblazer continues to inspire and uplift rangatahi, using every platform to create meaningful and real impact in her community and beyond. 

"Difference is not a flaw but a beautiful by-product of evolving humanity." 

Lauryn (Ngāti Pūkenga ki Waiau, Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Kiorekino) hails from the beautiful Tauranga Moana and is a proud wahine Māori committed to uplifting Indigenous voices and improving health equity. A graduate of Waipapa Taumata Rau / The University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Diploma in Māori Development, she is now pursuing postgraduate study in Public and Māori Health. 

As a kaupapa Māori advisor at 2degrees HQ, Lauryn brings cultural insight and advocacy to the corporate space. Passionate about dismantling systemic barriers for marginalised communities, she recently completed a six-week public health internship in Mumbai, India, supporting efforts to manage the spread of HIV/AIDS. 

Her journey has been deeply rooted in reclaiming her reo, whakapapa, and tikanga, and she continues to grow through active engagement in Māori and Pacific spaces at university and in the wider community. These environments have nurtured her leadership, courage, and commitment to service. Lauryn believes in seizing every opportunity for growth (no matter how uncertain) and aspires to be a driving force in creating accessible, culturally grounded healthcare for all. This incredible wahine carries her whānau, iwi, and identity into every space she enters. 

"Don’t be afraid to challenge societal expectations, use your voice, and remember that mistakes are part of growth and haerenga."

Laya is an emerging Afghan-Kiwi architect, artist, and entrepreneur dedicated to designing inclusive, sustainable, and culturally enriched communities. Born in Afghanistan and forced to flee with her family, she experienced the hardships of displacement firsthand. Her journey from refugee to changemaker fuels her passion for using architecture and art for social impact. 

Currently pursuing her master’s degree in architecture at Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makaurau / AUT, Laya’s research explores hydrological architecture, ecological infrastructure, and responsive design. Her talents have been reflected in projects like Orchard Oasis Community Hub concept, which sparks dialogue on sustainable, inclusive spaces. 

Her dedication has been recognised with the TEAM Architects Scholarship 2025 and the Prime Minister Scholarship, enabling her to serve as an AUT ambassador in Chile in 2023. There, she immersed herself in local culture, studied community dynamics and drew meaningful comparisons with Aotearoa's inclusive design practices. 

Laya also mentors students and advocates for refugee and migrant communities through RASyouth and Mixit. She also contributes to her family’s event decoration business. Her art vividly captures themes of migration, identity, and resilience. With a multifaceted approach to design and community engagement, this talented changemaker is a rising star, shaping spaces that foster belonging and sustainability. 

"You are more powerful than you know, and your journey, your culture, and your experiences are not barriers; they are strengths."

Lisa is an advocate for care-experienced young people as an active rangatira atawhai at VOYCE - Whakarongo Mai. She’s all about youth-led kaupapa and presents workshops with The Collaborative Trust on suicide prevention, self-harm, burnout, inclusivity and diversity, and trauma-informed care. Lisa’s dedicated to helping communities better understand rangatahi.

Born in Ōamaru, this amazing changemaker has been before the select committee in Parliament for the 6 Promises Petition and the Save 7AA Campaign and has been involved in the Parliament hikoi for 6 Promises, helping lead the political hot seat prior to the last elections. She has actively advocated for care-experienced rangatahi being placed in motels, fronted up to media multiple times about the Ram Raid Amendment Bill, and proposed cuts to the record keeping department at Oranga Tamariki. Currently, Lisa is working on the State of Care in 2025 report and planning for the 2026 Care conference. Twice voted for the Te Waiponamu Regional Youth Council Chair, she is also a staunch advocate for local music. Lisa’s been a playlist curator for RDU 98.5fm where she champions young upcoming artists to get on air, and was recognised for her outstanding contribution at the Student Radio Network Awards. 

"Don’t be afraid to hear the word ‘no,’ and also don’t be afraid to say the word ‘yes’ to new opportunities out of your comfort zone."

Mairātea Mohi (Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Te Arawa whānui, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui) is a publisher and writer committed to bridging cultural divides through the printed word. Raised by Ngāti Rangiwewehi elders on the shores of Lake Rotorua, Mairātea grew up surrounded by orators, storytellers, and holders of ancestral knowledge. From them, she learned the weight of words, discovering that her tongue was ink, her thoughts paper, and her stories vessels for whakapapa, identity, and memory. 

Grounded in the teachings of manaakitanga, whakaaro whānui, and aroha nui, Mairātea was handed a roadmap for connection, creation, and leadership; values that shape her work to this day. As the maiden te ao Māori editor of Craccum, she launched Taumata Rau, the magazine’s first Māori and Pasifika-led issues. Later, as co-editor, she introduced its inaugural Pasifika editor role, further embedding kaupapa Māori and Moana perspectives in the publication’s leadership. This mahi led her to the prestigious Columbia Publishing Course in Oxford, shaping her path as a bold advocate for cross-cultural storytelling and fostering connections between Indigenous and global literary traditions.

Now as te reo Māori Publishing Associate at Waipapa Taumata Rau / The University of Auckland, Mairātea is shifting the centre, elevating Indigenous, Pacific, Asian, and migrant stories that speak to identity, decolonisation, and diaspora. 

"Constant worrying will not keep the storm from coming. Know when to let your cards fall, know when to let your mind rest. And maybe - just maybe - embrace a little absurdity on the way there."

Malak is a young Palestinian-Kiwi passionate about youth empowerment, human rights, and community leadership. Having moved between Ōtepoti and Hebron, she has constantly navigated the space between cultures. As a hijabi, Muslim, and Palestinian woman, she sees her communities are underrepresented, often noticing she’s the only one in the room. Young Muslim women are often seen as oppressed, but Malak wants to show that they have so much to offer; this fuels her ‘why.’ Inspired by her mother’s resilience, Malak’s committed to uplifting and representing her communities.  

This multifaceted student at Queen's High School is involved with the Mental Health Foundation Youth Advisory Group, Gen-Z Aotearoa, Create Happy Media, Make It 16, and the Pūawai Project as a youth ambassador. Malak also volunteers with Interact, Amnesty, occasionally Generation Hope NZ, attends UN Youth events, and supports her family’s Rozana for Palestine fundraiser. As the former liaison officer for the Dunedin Youth Council, she co-hosted their podcast and helped lead a bus safety campaign. Whether leading rallies, debating, or speaking, this big-hearted changemaker moves through the world with purpose. At 15, Malak’s kaupapa is already clear: to challenge misconceptions, uplift her communities, and ensure their voices are heard. 

"Stay proud and be yourself - never hide your culture & who you are."

Manuella is a Year 13 student at Wakatipu High School with a passion for community impact, and empowering others to grow. With whakapapa linking back to Brazil, she brings a global perspective to her work and is committed to creating positive change in and outside the classroom. As the 2024 Student Board Representative and Head Girl for 2025, Manuella has represented her peers with integrity. 

She's also passionate about supporting young people in her community, coaching beginner skaters through KiwiSkate and contributing to the Girls Who Grow program, where she helped develop a project that won the Rising Star Award at the Wakatipu Community Awards. Manuella’s driven by the belief that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow but can also be a catalyst for change today. This mindset has pushed her to create solutions for local issues like drought. 

Outside of school, Ice Hockey is a huge part of Manuella’s life as a member of the U18 Women’s New Zealand Ice Hockey Team. Looking ahead, this community-minded, young leader plans to pursue a career in law, driven by her desire to advocate for underrepresented voices. Manuella is motivated by action, collaboration, and the belief that real change starts locally. 

"Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard."

Mary is a trailblazing activist working at the intersection of environmental justice, Pacific knowledge systems, creative practice, and intergenerational engagement. Currently studying Fashion/Textile Design, she grounds her work in the beautiful paradox of Jesus' justice and grace, the wisdom of her ancestral communities, and those who have woven her in from: Sapapalii, Aleipata, Falealili, Isle of Raasay Pietermaritzburg and more. 

At Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa / Massey University, she champions cultural revitalisation and creative arts, while serving as a UNESCO youth representative connecting global science and cultural priorities to Aotearoa /Pacific. Mary has led World Vision campaigns on climate justice/global food insecurity, initiated council chamber debates and cultural competency programmes with local governments. 

She sits on university academic boards advocating for reformed tertiary curriculums, Pacific ancestral knowledge, and contributes to research projects. Mary recently campaigned and executed a parliamentary conference, connecting pioneering Pasifika leaders with young people. Her story is rooted in resilience: from funding her passions at 13 with part time jobs, to leading the NZ Open Women’s Touch Rugby Team, to having her music performed by NZSO members. This changemaker isn’t driven by accolades, but by a commitment to celebrating individual gifts and our urgent, collective responsibility. 

"Purpose over potential."

Sabreen is a Muslim Bengali wahine, passionate about using her voice, both through advocacy and art, to create change. 

A talented songwriter, poet, and musician, Sabreen has published her first EP, showcasing her unique blend of heartfelt lyricism and soulful melodies, and is currently working on her second. Her music explores themes of identity, belonging, and resilience, weaving together her experiences as a young woman of colour, her Muslim faith, and her love for storytelling. In her latest single “Countryman”, Sabreen addresses racism in Aotearoa, inspired by the murder of Joe Kum Yung in Wellington over a century ago. Through haunting melodies and powerful lyrics, she reminds us that the fight against racism is far from over. 

The law and sociology student at Waipapa Taumata Rau / The University of Auckland, also published her first poetry collection book, Spring Clean, in 2022. Whether writing poetry that captures the quiet ache of growing up as a person of colour or using her platform to advocate for equity and inclusion, Sabreen’s work is driven by an unwavering sense of purpose. She is not afraid to speak up, and she does so with grace, honesty, and raw vulnerability, inspiring many wāhine in Aotearoa. 

"You're here for a reason, and your ancestors are proud of you. Do what you love for them and no one else!"

Sarina is a Mechatronics Engineering graduate with a burning passion to create equitable access to STEM. Inspired by the educational and societal barriers faced by her Japanese grandmother, Sarina’s made it her mission to challenge societal norms when it comes to gender equity in education. She is also the co-founder of Women in STEM NZ, an initiative that creates accessible opportunities for youth to thrive in STEM. 

Last year, she was approached by NASA and the US Embassy to lead an outreach event for the 20th anniversary of the Opportunity Rover. Sarina created ‘Exploring Opportunity’, which brought together 200 students from across Aotearoa for robotics workshops and a keynote by NASA JPL's Vandi Verma. She’s also led impactful events like Enginuity Day at Waipapa Taumata Rau / The University of Auckland, and represented Aotearoa at the UNITE 2030 Camp in New York, moderating a United Nations panel focused on turning vision into tangible change. 

As a systems engineer, Sarina is always looking for innovative solutions to complex problems. Driven by two Sustainable Development Goals, Quality Education and Gender Equality, this dedicated STEM legend is committed to empowering young people, especially women and those from diverse backgrounds, to pursue careers in science and tech, break glass ceilings and bridge the gender gap.

"No one can tell you you're doing it wrong if nobody knows what you're doing." 

Te Ahipourewa (Ngāti Pāoa, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Naho) is a Māori specialist multimedia journalist at Re: News, committed to amplifying Māori voices and shifting the media landscape in Aotearoa. Her storytelling spans cultural, political, and social issues, offering insightful perspectives that challenge mainstream narratives and celebrate Indigenous identity. Her work explores significant kaupapa, from the deep meaning of Matariki to the differences between kura kaupapa Māori and mainstream schools. She has covered major events, including the largest hīkoi to Waitangi in a generation, and highlighted the historic journey of Aotearoa’s youngest MP in 170 years. Through her reporting, she brings authenticity and depth to issues that matter to Māori communities. 

Grounded in whakapapa and tikanga, Te Ahipourewa sees journalism as a modern extension of traditional Māori storytelling, bridging past, present, and future. Her work challenges dominant narratives, restores dignity to Māori perspectives, and makes space for her people to be seen and heard on their own terms. This talented wahine toa is driven by a vision where Māori voices lead, educate, and empower. Through storytelling rooted in whanaungatanga and mana motuhake, she inspires rangatahi, celebrates Tangata Whenua, and is reimagining the future of media in Aotearoa. 

"Your whakapapa is your strength. Your tūpuna walk with you every single day - their strength is your strength."

Tupou is a trailblazing NZ Tongan Paralympic swimmer, showcasing the strength and resilience that define Pacific cultures. Born in Māngere East, Tāmaki Makaurau, Tupou was in a life-altering accident at age two, which left her with left-sided hemiplegia. However, she found her strength in swimming, which became more than just a sport; it was her path to self-expression and success. 

As a young Pacific woman, Tupou proudly represents her Tongan heritage on the international stage. In an interview, she expressed pride in sharing her culture, saying, ‘It’s cool getting to travel the world and be able to share my culture and put us on the world stage.’  Tupou is passionate about inspiring others, especially in underrepresented communities. Her experiences with her own self-doubt have fuelled her advocacy for mental health and self-acceptance, encouraging others to embrace their uniqueness and push past limitations. She emphasises the importance of being true to oneself and believing in yourself.  

This multitalented champion’s achievements are a testament to her unwavering dedication. She has won prestigious medals, including a gold at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics and silver at the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships. Tupou is really all that, in such a fierce and humble way. 

"BElieve in YOUrself"