The Adastra Foundation

1 week ago

Meet @matt.ruetsch ! Born and raised in Einsiedeln, Switzerland and made the move to Aotearoa when he was 13! Matt attended St Paul’s in Hamilton and is currently studying at the University of Waikato! A special place that fills Matt’s cup is Queenstown; he says the mountains and scenery are very similar to where he grew up in Switzerland, which makes it feel like home. Matt upholds strong values such as honesty, fairness, and teamwork on a daily basis.

Matt has had some remarkable achievements in his career that we’d like to highlight. In 2022, his team placed 3rd at the National Rankin Cup. He has also demonstrated academic excellence at the University of Waikato and was selected for the future Black Sticks squad. He hopes that this success will continue and is striving to play in the Junior World Cup in India next year and eventually move across the globe to play in the NHL (ice hockey). After his hockey career, he plans to use his degree to work as a software engineer or in the cybersecurity sector.

Matt said, “I am loving the support from the Adastra Foundation and would 100% recommend it to others, not only for the financial support but also for the other opportunities offered in the workshops that help support my career.”
As always, a massive thank you to all our funders who have supported our recipients!

📸 @kimwiharepics ... See MoreSee Less

The Adastra Foundation

2 weeks ago

Meet @_samiconrad ! Born and raised in Rotorua, she attended John Paul College and is currently studying for a Law and Arts Conjoint degree at the University of Auckland while also dancing at various Auckland dance studios. A place that holds significant value and comfort for Sami is Amjazz Dance Studio; it’s a safe haven for her where she has learned some great skills that she applies in everyday life.

Sami has achieved some incredible things, including her team placing 7th at the World of Dance Championship last year, her impressive work as Dance Captain at JPC in 2023, and her ability to continue dancing while studying full-time this year. When Sami was 10 years old, she wanted to be a Silver Fern and the first female police commissioner of New Zealand. She now says, “However, I want to finish my law degree and pursue a professional dance career. My dream is to become a backup dancer on a world tour.”

Sami applied for the Adastra Scholarship because she had seen the great support provided to other recipients. The funding has helped Sami immensely while she balances dancing and studying full-time. Sami said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed the support, specifically during the two workshop days, which have taught me lifelong lessons. It was also great to make friends with other recipients.”

Sami added, “Overall, I am so happy and blessed to be an Adastra recipient for 2024 and to have the support from Craig’s Investment Partners. Their help has been invaluable to me; no words can express my gratitude, and I am extremely thankful.”

📸 @bryonyenz @jpc.photography.design
📸 @photos.by.eryk ... See MoreSee Less

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The Adastra Foundation

3 weeks ago

Meet @mischa.boorman ! Born and raised in Pāpāmoa, she is currently attending Mount Maunganui college. A special place for Mischa is the Darren Mountains near Milford Sound. She says, “It’s absolutely beautiful there and an incredible place for me to climb.” She hopes to complete a few climbing projects there in the near future!

Mischa is super proud of competing in multiple International Youth World Cups for sport climbing in both Texas and Korea. She was also chosen to compete at a 2024 Olympic Selection event in Melbourne for lead, boulder, and speed climbing.

Along with her strong goals to continue performing well in climbing, Mischa is fascinated by all things medical, math, and problem-solving. She hopes to apply her knowledge and curiosity in these fields to become a biomedical engineer in the future and will be applying to study engineering at the University of Canterbury.

Mischa said, “I applied for the Adastra Scholarship because I’d heard about its great reputation. The support and workshops offered have been informative and enjoyable. It’s been great meeting other students and learning about their interests and achievements as well. The funding has helped me attend national and international competitions, which I’m super grateful for. Thank you so much to all the funders. It’s been a fantastic opportunity for me, and I’ve gained confidence from the experience.”

📸 @victorhallphotography
📸 @kiwi_nats_adventures ... See MoreSee Less

The Adastra Foundation

1 month ago

Meet @olivialassey ! Born and raised in the Atāhua town of Mount Maunganui, where she attended Mount Maunganui College, Olivia is deeply connected to her roots and heritage. Croatia and Whakatāne are significant to her, as their rich history and culture resonate with her, providing a profound sense of belonging and pride that is intricately woven into her whānau story.

Olivia is about to start studying occupational therapy in America while continuing to pursue her basketball goals. She demonstrates exceptional drive, motivation, and passion both on and off the court. Balancing intense training with academic success, building lasting connections, and embracing personal growth are all part of her journey. We could not be prouder of the dedication she puts into bettering herself.

Olivia shared, “If I were to give my younger self a piece of advice, I would say to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to focus on the journey rather than just the destination. Build resilience, stay curious, and nurture relationships. This approach will not only help you enjoy your experiences but also create a more fulfilling path to success.”

Olivia said “I am incredibly grateful for the support from the Adastra Foundation and sponsors like @tectnz . The funding has been instrumental in allowing me to focus on my basketball training and academic pursuits without the added stress of financial burdens. Your generosity has made a significant difference in my journey, and I wholeheartedly recommend the Adastra Foundation to others seeking support. Thank you for believing in my potential and for making this opportunity possible.” ... See MoreSee Less

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