Unexpected win for Hawera Student
A South Taranaki teen is about to find out if he has sea legs.
Piriniha Wilson, 17, from Ha¯ wera, is the recipient of a fully funded 21-day Outward Bound scholarship valued at over $4000, which was given to the South Taranaki Mayors Taskforce for Jobs steering group by an anonymous donor.
‘‘I haven’t been on a boat before so I’m not sure if I’ll get sea sick, but I can swim,’’ he said.
‘‘But thank you to the donor, whoever they are, for the chance to take this amazing course. I’m really excited and appreciative about this opportunity.’’
Outward Bound helps youth and adults reach their full potential
through challenge in the outdoors like sailing trips, backpacking, mountaineering and whitewater rafting.
Wilson said winning the scholarship was unexpected but he was looking forward to the opportunity.
‘‘I’ll get to meet people from all over New Zealand and from overseas, it’s a chance see new things, make new friends and it’ll get me out of Ha¯ wera for a bit,’’ he said.
He had recently completed his NCEA level one and two at FEATS in Ha¯ wera and was nominated for the scholarship by his tutor Rosanne Oaks, who helped him with his application.
Wilson was selected by South Taranaki Mayor Ross Dunlop.
‘‘Piri’s application showed his real desire to rise above a number of difficulties he has experienced in order to develop leadership skills and to be a positive role model for tamariki,’’ he said.
‘‘Our previous MTFJ Youth to Work award winners have been lucky recipients of Outward Bound courses and these young people regularly tell us the experience is life changing for them. I am sure Piri will enjoy the same benefits.’’
Wilson is due to set sail in April next year but in the meantime will need to fundraise for his gear and transport to and from Picton.
The Mayors’ Taskforce for Jobs is focussed on the goal of having those under 25 engaged in appropriate education, training, work or other activities that contribute to their long-term economic independence and well-being.
‘‘It’s a chance see new things, make new friends and it’ll get me out of Hawera for a bit.’’ Piriniha Wilson, 17