Meet our new 2023 Whanake Scholarship recipient, Brock Colson

We’re excited to announce that Brock is one of our new recipients of the HERA Whanake Scholarship!

Tena Tatou Katoa 

Ko Ruapehu Toku Maunga 

Ko Kaipara Toku Awa 

Ko Tainui Toku Awa 

No Helensville Ahau 

Ko Colson Toku Whanau 

Ko Brock Toku Ingoa

“Kia Ora, my name is Brock and I am honoured to be a recipient of the Whanake Scholarship. My high school years were spent at Kaipara College where I studied Calculus, Physics, Media, Earth Space science and Automotive Engineering. I have followed this pathway since the beginning of high school as I have always had an interest in Engineering and the automotive industry and I want to further develop this interest. I am now studying for a Bachelors in Mechatronics Engineering at Massey University. For me to receive this scholarship means that I have been given time, time that would have been spent at a part time job can now be spent studying and giving back to the community. In 2016, only 6% of engineers in Aotearoa were Māori, this is something I would like to help change as I believe it is important to have high Māori engagement in the science and engineering fields. I want to positively influence the next generation of Māori to get involved in engineering to carve a path forward and ultimately change the industry for the better.  

My understanding of heavy engineering is the transformation and fabrication of metal, this is used in many diverse fields such as aerospace engineering, ship building, civil engineering and steel production.”

What do you do in your free time?

“In my free time, I am actively involved with my local surf lifesaving club as a qualified surf lifeguard and completing the final stage of my Duke of Edinburgh award. I also enjoy snow skiing, dirt biking, karate and spending time working on cars.”

Why did we choose Brock?

Brock was selected for the HERA Whanake scholarship based on his outstanding accomplishments and demonstrated passion for community service and career exploration. His experience as a lifeguard, coupled with his dedication to gaining practical knowledge in boat building and car mechanics during school holidays, highlighted his proactive approach to learning and commitment to personal growth. Additionally, Brock’s remarkable achievement of receiving two Duke of Edinburgh Awards further underscored his exceptional character and well-roundedness, making him a deserving candidate for the HERA Whanake scholarship.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]