Helena Crengle | Seelye Kupe Leadership Scholar

GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN SECONDARY TEACHING

(Undergraduate degree from Victoria University)

Growing up in South East Asia opened my eyes to the debilitating effects of inequality on crime, social cohesion and the economic growth of a nation. As a New Zealand Maori, I was disheartened on my return to see that these inequalities are also a contemporary and growing reality here in Aotearoa. I believe that a quality education and equal opportunity are key to ameliorating inequality. This not only requires more teachers, but teachers who are motivated, resilient and dedicated to leading and improving pathways for all our tamariki. My global perspective from living abroad, the quality education I have received and my background in the social sciences have all fuelled my desire and determination to contribute to social change. It is my time to pay it forward by leading and positively impacting a classroom, as I have been led and inspired in the past.

Sponsor: Ralph and Eve Seelye Trust

Mentor: Pat Snedden MNZM, Executive Chair of the Manaiakalani Trust