Alumni Committee

In 2023, a Kupe Alumni Committee was established to support the needs and interests of the growing alumni community. Caitlin MacRae and Connor McDowall are the 2024 co-chairs, leading the committee and ensuring the continued development of alumni initiatives. “We primarily act as facilitators for a team of alumni, organising initiatives centred around three pillars: continuous learning, community building, and giving back,” explains Connor. “Our team work collaboratively, building a close-knit community of scholars who are deeply committed to serving Aotearoa New Zealand.”

Caitlin is equally enthusiastic about her role. For her, joining the Alumni Committee offered an opportunity to help develop “a richer alumni community and experience”. “Interactions with past alumni while I was going through my Scholarship experience exposed me to even more varied perspectives and opinions,” she observes. “I strongly believe that as the Scholarship and alumni community grow and develop, there is a need to continue growing and engaging with each other, and I knew that I could provide time, effort and insights to help build a world-class alumni strategy.”

Alumni representatives also form an essential part of the Kupe Leadership Scholarship Advisory Group, and a range of alumni past and present support the ongoing evolution of the Scholarship in this capacity.

Kupe Alumni contribute to all facets of the Scholarship and maintain their involvement with the programme through events, breakfasts, workshops, dinners and more. Their knowledge and insights – both from their Kupe year and beyond – bring a richness and depth to the Kupe Leadership Scholarship experience, ensuring the programme fulfils its vision of building a powerful community of inspiring young leaders committed to creating a successful future for Aotearoa New Zealand. “Being involved in the committee has been highly rewarding, and being engaged with such a committed and passionate group of people has been incredibly enjoyable,” says Caitlin. Connor agrees. “Being involved with the Kupe Alumni Committee is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help build a world-class scholarship right here,” he enthuses. “We are developing leaders and mentors, investing heavily in our communities, and empowering the next generation. Just as my mentors have done for me.”