The Inspire Foundation proudly identifies and celebrates exceptional young individuals hailing from Marlborough who exhibit both the potential and the drive to excel in their chosen fields.

These fields encompass a diverse range, including Arts, IT, Design, Music, Science, Research, Education, Sport, and Community Service. Eligible applicants must fall within the age range of 16 to 23 years, be residents of Marlborough for a minimum of three years, possess New Zealand Citizenship, and showcase remarkable abilities or potential within their chosen domain. Inspire Foundation support takes the form of grants designed to cover a wide spectrum of needs, including but not limited to travel, equipment, courses, tuition, projects, or initiatives. Inspire Marlborough takes great pride in having assisted numerous Marlborough Girls' College students, both in the past and present. 

We encourage all interested individuals to apply online at https://marlborough.inspirefoundation.co.nz. Stay connected on Facebook for updates and inspiring stories.   

Kyla Thorstensen

This year Kyla Thorstensen, a MGC Year 11 student, was a recipient in the Inspire Foundation awards. Currently 16, Kyla has been playing softball since she was five years old and started representing Marlborough aged ten. In 2022 she was selected for the NZ Development Sox Squad and in 2023 she was elected to play for the Auckland Metro U17 Softball Team for the Easter Classic. A highlight for her was hitting a grand slam in a Marlborough Rep tournament (loaded bases and getting everyone home including herself). 

Kyla works extremely hard to strive to be the best she can be which is why she wants to play the upcoming season in Auckland. This will allow her to receive coaching and selection opportunities not available in the Nelson/Marlborough area. This in turn will allow her to achieve her goals of getting a scholarship to a US College and to represent NZ. Kyla’s grant will contribute to her travel costs to Auckland.