Raksha Tiwari | McCall MacBain Kupe Leadership Scholar

Bachelor of Laws (Honours)

As an immigrant from a developing nation, I saw first-hand how important education could be for social mobility, yet how it is often treated as a privilege rather than a right for those in need. Becoming hyperaware of such social inequities at a very young age was the driving force behind my decision to pursue a Law degree, as it highlighted the importance of advocacy, activism and policy in the advancement of society.

Educational inequity is one of the many pre-existing issues that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The crisis has disproportionately impacted access to education for many of the most vulnerable youth in Aotearoa. Throughout my career, I hope to be an advocate and ally for marginalised youth, and help to create platforms where they can access the tools and knowledge to utilise their abilities, and build the brightest future for themselves and our nation.

Sponsor: McCall MacBain Foundation

Mentor: Tupe Solomon-Tanoa'i, Chief Philanthropic Officer of the Michael and Suzanne Borrin Foundation, former diplomat for Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, writer and creator of independent web series Misadventures of a Pacific Professional and UoA 40 under 40 Influencer.