These three questions were put to student leaders at MBAS.
- 1. “What is your favorite way to spend your time outside of school, and what has that hobby taught you about yourself?”
- 2. “What is your ‘big dream’ for your career or life after school, and what inspired you to chase it?”
- 3. “If you could change or improve one thing for the next generation of students in our town/school, what would it be?”
Naomi Bell – Environmental Leader
My favourite way to spend my time outside of school is by participating in the performing arts. It taught me that while something may seem stressful in the moment, looking back at it you will miss what you had.
My dream is to go into Environmental Law and protect our kaitiakitanga.
If I could change or improve things for the future, I would open up more opportunities for our students in sports, performing arts, and academics.
Miranda Coleman – Wellbeing Leader
My favourite way to spend my time outside of school is doing physical activities like netball, basketball and swimming. These hobbies have taught me to be confident in my decisions, try my best, and work well with others as part of a team. It has also helped me to take others’ ideas into consideration and be collaborative.
My big dream after school is to become a nurse and midwife, where I can care for people and support mothers and babies during important moments in their lives. I was inspired to chase this dream as I feel I am a very caring person and I enjoy helping others, especially when they need support the most.
If I could change or improve one thing for the next generation of students in my school, I would improve opportunities for students to get real experience in their future careers before going to university. This would mean more work experience, volunteering, and job shadowing, so they can make more confident choices about their pathway.
Tyron Cummings – Sports Leader
My favourite way to spend time outside of school would be rugby/basketball. These sports have taught me a lot of things including discipline, learning how to productively work as a team, leadership and organisational skills.
My ultimate goal in life would be to own my own diving business in Aitutaki, Cook Islands. To help me achieve this, I plan to enlist as a navy diver. I have also been studying at Dive Zone for two years and am now a Dive Master in training.
If I could change anything in our school, it would be to try and teach the next generation of kids not to be so judgmental towards each other. Get to know people before you start judging them and always show respect if you want respect given back.
Laila Dunn – Academic Leader
Outside of school I really enjoy staying active, especially going to the gym and playing sports like netball and basketball. Sports and moving my body are a big part of my routine and day to day life. Through this, I’ve learned a lot about discipline and consistency, showing up even when I’m tired or busy.
My big dream is to go into paramedicine and work in a role where I can help people in critical situations. I’ve always been drawn to fast-paced environments where you have to think quickly and make a real difference. My experiences with surf lifesaving and being involved in helping roles have inspired me, and I like the idea of having a career that is both challenging and meaningful.
I would want to create a stronger sense of support and balance for students, especially around managing stress and expectations. School can feel overwhelming at times, so making sure students feel supported, not just academically but mentally as well, is really important. I’d also like to see more opportunities for students to get involved in leadership, sports, and community activities, so everyone can find something they’re passionate about.
Brooklyn Jade Mark – Cultural Leader
Outside of school, I love spending time with my friends and playing netball. This sport has taught me the importance of teamwork, commitment, and supporting others, while my friendships have shown me how valuable strong connections and communication are.
My big dream after school is to go to university and build a successful career that I’m passionate about. I’m inspired by the opportunities that education can create and by wanting to make my family proud through hard work and success.
One thing I would improve for future students is creating more opportunities for student voices to be heard. Students should feel supported, included, and encouraged to take on leadership opportunities and share their ideas.
