First Foundation
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Strengthening the pathways, opportunities and choices that empower young people.
Sheloutska Howe is a trailblazer. The first in her family to walk through the doors of university.
Born of Pasifika and Greek roots, raised in South Auckland by a mum who carried the weight of four kids on her own, Sheloutska grew up without many people around her who had taken the leap into higher education. So when she heard about First Foundation in Year 12, it felt out of reach.
"I honestly didn't think I would get it."
But she did. And those first steps weren't easy. A difficult first semester left her feeling lost, and scared to ask for help.
Then she decided to lean in anyway.
With the support of her mentors Claire Le Grice, scholarship partner from Hibiscus Solutions Mike Alston, and the stability that came with moving into university accommodation, everything started to shift. Her grades climbed. Her confidence grew. Her mental health improved.
Now in her third year of Nursing at AUT, Sheloutska isn't just proving something to herself, she's showing her brothers, her community, and every kid from South Auckland what's possible.
"There is potential in me. And there are people at First Foundation who genuinely want to help me succeed."
What an incredible journey it’s been! We had the most amazing time connecting with you all at our Whānau Frying Pan events across New Zealand. We hope the memories are just as special for you, thank you so much for showing up, sharing your kōrero, and having some Kai with us. Until next time! 🍳❤️
07/05/2026
Have you been travelling this month? You might have spotted First Foundation's founder Steve Carden in Air New Zealand's Kia Ora magazine.
"Education, when properly supported, behaves less like a cost and more like infrastructure. Its returns compound." That line says everything about why we do what we do.
27 years. 1,183 scholars. And research showing that for every dollar invested in a First Foundation scholar, society receives $39 in return over their lifetime.
We are working towards 2,000 scholars by 2030 — not because it is a nice round number, but because the evidence tells us the return to New Zealand communities is worth every bit of effort it takes to get there.
Pick up a copy on your next flight, or share this post with someone who should read it.
04/05/2026
Just 2 days left to apply for a First Foundation 2027 Scholarship — closing 6 May!
Are you a hardworking young New Zealander with big ambitions? First Foundation scholarships are designed to help students who have the talent and the drive, but need a little extra support to get there.
👉 Head to the link to check if you meet the requirements, it only takes a minute.
Not eligible yourself? Please share this post! You never know who in your network might be the perfect fit. Parents, teachers, coaches, and employers, your share matters.
📅 Applications close: Wednesday, 6 May
🔗 https://firstfoundation.org.nz/students-schools/how-to-apply/
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.
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Auckland
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Opening Hours
| Monday | 9am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 9am - 5pm |
| Friday | 9am - 5pm |
