Pacific author becomes young alumna 2020

Ayoung Pacific writer has been formally acknowledged by her university for her creative achievements since she graduated.

Courtney Sina Meredith, is of Samoan, Cook Island and Irish descent and was the first Pacific writer and first New Zealander to hold the LiteraturRaum Blebitreu Berlin residency in 2011, and now Alumna. She is the 2020 Young Alumna of the Year from The University of Auckland.

The distinguished awards honour university alumni who have made outstanding contributions to their professions, communities, the country and beyond. Ms Meredith said each recipient would receive a medallion for their honour. “I have always been mana over money, so I wasn’t expecting anything, but we all do get a medallion and each award receives a different colour, mine will be bronze.” Ms Meredith is a poet, performer and short story author who has published award winning pieces such as Urbanesia:

Four Pasifika Plays, Brown Girls in Bright Red Lipstick and Tail of the Taniwha.

The University of Auckland said Ms Meredith had been acknowledged for her prestigious creative opportunities around the world and her strong focus on giving voice to the contemporary experiences of Pacific women.

This includes being invited to participate in the International Writing Program at the University of Iowa in 2016, being the writer in residence at the Island Institute in Sitka, Alaska and holding a residency at Sylt Foundation.

Ms Meredith said she was surprised to receive an e-mail message from the vice chancellor expressing their congratulations on the award and that it meant a lot to her and her family.

“I literally had no idea I was getting this award. I know there are many amazing graduates from The University of Auckland, so I am thrilled especially because I am proud of the place.”