The ability to support your local community and help the upcoming generation of professionals is always something we want to do when operating a business in New Zealand. Also noting the current demographic of the Engineering industry, it’s clear that our Māori and Pasifika communities are less advantaged to get into this industry. These are students that may be facing the dilema: pursing education or earning for their family?
Lutra is proud to announce that we are supporting Māori and Pasifika students who come from low socio-economic backgrounds to break into the Engineering industry. We are doing this by providing two 4-year scholarships in partnership with First Foundation, so that these students can receive first-hand mentorship from current industry professionals, but also release some of the financial pressure on themselves and their families in attending University and gaining their degree. Along with this, Lutra will provide paid work experience each year for our two scholars to let them grow their skills and relationships in a safe working environment.
First Foundation is a charity organisation partnering with schools and companies across New Zealand to help provide positive impact to these student’s lives. FF uses a unique 3-pillar model to provide each student with the right support to help them succeed; Financial Assistance; Mentoring; and Introduction to work. Often, these students are the first in their families to attend University, so having these tools and support to manage the transition to this new world is game-changing.
On Tuesday 2nd May 2023, First Foundation held their awards night, during which Lutra’s 2 selected scholars received their scholarship and recognition of the hard work they’ve done to achieve this. Our 2 scholars will be completing their final year of High School in 2023 before beginning their further education at University from 2024. Keep an eye out for our scholars working with Lutra over the summer period – then fully into the industry post-degree!