Academic Excellence Award Sponsored by SPACPAC Collective
This is awarded to the highest Pasifika Academic achiever as judged by their 2023 NCEA Level 2 (or higher) results. It is for the Pacific student that has succeeded in receiving the top marks of 2023 for Pasifika across Canterbury.
Yash Naicker a Year 12 student from Te Puna Raki | North Division won this prestigious award.
Yash is a highly dedicated student, who manages not only to work very hard in the academic world but also be part of Polyfest and other Pasifika initiatives at school.
A Year 12 student from Te Puna Raki North Division, Eze Nakaroti, was part of a team who were at the National finals for Programming Maori and Pasifika Potential. This is an entrepreneurial initiative and they were narrowly pipped on the line. Yash and Eze did an amazing job and Yash has won this award due to his consistent effort and his dedication to his studies and subsequent results. The SPACPAC Academic Excellence Award winner in 2024 – Yash Naicker, well done Yash!
Commitment to Wellbeing Award
Sponsored by Etu Pasifika
In 2024 Burnside High School was awarded the Commitment to Wellbeing Award.
This is awarded to individual/s or group/s that contribute significantly in highlighting the importance of healthy wellbeing that encompasses mental, physical, spiritual and social aspects in their school, church, family, or community.
Burnside High School’s Pasifika group’s commitment to community engagement and wellbeing was exemplified through its recent collaboration involving students from 17 neighbouring schools in our latest production.
This ambitious project “The Untold Story” not only showcased the talent and dedication of the participating students but also served as a platform to address the pressing issue of intergenerational disconnect within the Pasifika community. By delving into the experiences and challenges faced by young Pasifika students, the show facilitated meaningful conversations and promoted empathy among both the performers and the audience. This event not only entertained but also educated, fostering a sense of unity and understanding across diverse communities within Otautahi. We continue to be mindful of the wellbeing of the students and try to maintain a balance of working hard academically and providing opportunities to connect, to learn and to be social.
