Macy Crossan (Kāi Tahu) and Molly Gilbert (Ngāpuhi) represent the best of young Māori leadership at Otago Girls.

We were so proud and delighted to see these teina and tuakana nominees receive their Mana Pounamu Young Achievers Awards at Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka. It was lovely to see and hear so many of their friends supporting them. Mana Pounamu is a prestigious event, with schools from all over the Ōtākou region in attendance. It was exciting to see so many rakatahi receive their awards and to reflect on all the activities that they engage in, as well as to experience the rousing haka and waiata tautoko. Thank you also to our generous hosts Te Kura Matatini ki Ōtākou for the delicious hāngi. Namunamuā!

Macy is a true wahine atawhai who is always encouraging of others. She is a wonderful coach who works with younger students across a range of disciplines. She is hoping to continue to support her community in her future career. She has received an Otago University Māori entry scholarship and an Otago Polytech full tuition scholarship, so this will be a big help in her tertiary plans following Year 13. It was very special to see Macy dressed in an heirloom kākahu huruhuru manu befitting the mana of the occasion.

Molly is a determined young learner who sets a great example in her determination in her studies. Her whānau endorsement letter recorded her achievements:

“Molly is deeply engaged in both school and cultural life. She's a dedicated member of Wairua Pūhou and took part in Hautonga 2025. Through Kapa Haka she's shown discipline, pride and a deep connection to her culture…Molly also gives so much to the wider school community through school choir, school production, Kāhui Kōrero & the wellbeing team. As Year 10 House Leader, she's shown natural leadership, always looking out for others.”

Well done to Macy and Molly; and to their whānau for such beautiful letters of endorsement. We look forward to your next steps as young Māori leaders. We encourage all our Māori students to complete their profiles on Google Classroom Māori Students 2026 so that they can take up opportunities such as wānanga and scholarships.

Poho kererū mātou - kei runga noa atu te tokorua nei.