Two of our former students Dana Costello and Sophie Hampston have been making headlines this week for achievements in their chosen career paths. We love to hear about our alumni and how they're making out in the world!

Sophie Hampson (one of our student leaders from 2020) is in the process of finishing her Masters of Fine Arts at Victoria University. In exciting news, she has just been awarded first place in the NZ leg of the International Youth Silent Film Festival, along with her two fellow filmmakers. 

The winning 'Shelf Life' tells the story of a book that's on a quest for a new home and Sophie was responsible for cinematography, set design and producing.

Along with $1500 prize money the trio gained automatic entry into the IYSFF Global Awards where their film will be showcased in Portland, Oregon this June.

Congratulations Sophie and best of luck for the IYSFF Global Awards Final! 

You can read more about the awards at the link below:

https://sunlive.co.nz/news/330661-film-about-unloved-book-wins-2023-iysff

Meanwhile, further up the motu, Dana Costello (2016 Nayland College Graduate) is making waves as an Able Marine Technician (Electrical) for the Royal New Zealand Navy. 

In only four years Dana has assisted with cyclone recovery in Fiji, completed a research trip to the Sub-Antarctic Islands and is currently posted on the HMNZS Manawatu a vessel responsible for diving, salvaging and hydrographics. 

You can read the full article about her childhood dream turned career in the article below:

https://nelsonapp.co.nz/news/nelson-sailor-finds-problem-solving-niche-with-navy