Wesley Key | John W Turnbull Estate Kupe Leadership Scholar

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Computer Systems

Throughout my academic journey, I’ve recognized the lack of Pasifika representation in STEM—a gap that limits innovation, restricts opportunities for our Pasifika youth, and deprives the industry of diverse perspectives. Growing up without role models in the technology space who share my background has driven my passion for creating pathways that empower Pasifika students to see STEM as an accessible and viable path to pursue.

I believe mentorship, collaboration, and inclusive leadership are essential to fostering environments where diversity is celebrated and individuals are empowered to reach their full potential. Education is a crucial tool, and I am committed to creating spaces where Pasifika youth can thrive and where challenges are met with collective ingenuity.

By focusing on diversity and sharing my journey, I aim to inspire the next generation to break barriers, embrace their unique strengths, and drive meaningful, lasting change in STEM.

Sponsor: John W Turnbull Engineering Estate

Mentor: Lesieli Oliver

Lesieli Oliver, a proud Tongan woman, founded Lālanga in 2020 to empower Māori and Pacific students. Drawing on her own experiences and her belief in "the power of collective support," Lālanga provides culturally relevant learning resources, technology, and mentoring to over 3,500 students in Tāmaki Makaurau. After migrating to Aotearoa at a young age, Lesieli's educational journey led her from a commerce degree to student politics and ultimately to entrepreneurship. Combining her passion for education with her experience in IT, she created Lālanga, finding immense fulfillment in witnessing the positive impact on young people's lives.