Two inspiring Northland teenagers have received a significant step up on their journey to study law at university.
Kamo High School Head Girl Savannah Cowan, and Whangarei Boys High School Prefect James (Jimmy) Mack were named as winners this week.
The scholarships, launched this year, are to support aspiring law students who have demonstrated academic ability and leadership, but are facing significant financial need or have life circumstances that present barriers to studying at university.
Each recipient will benefit from a $10,000 cash contribution, guaranteed paid work experience after their second year of study, and a mentor from WRMK.
“We had an excellent response to our call for applications, and some very high calibre candidates. While they have very different stories, both Savannah and Jimmy have demonstrated a strong drive to succeed. They have already achieved a great deal both academically, and in various community and leadership roles. We are delighted to be able to help support them through their studies,” says WRMK Managing Director Rebecca Merry.
“I’m really excited to be pursuing a career in law, not only because I hope to expand my understanding of law’s applications in day-to-day life, but also because I want to be equipped with the tools to make meaningful change in the world around me. Thanks to this scholarship, I’ll be two steps closer to achieving that dream,” says Jimmy.
“Whāia te iti kahurangi ki te tūohu koe me he maunga teitei. Seek the treasure you value most dearly: if you bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain. My passion to pursue law stems from my desire to create and influence positive change in people’s lives, especially here in Te Tai Tokerau. In this instance, the treasure I am seeking is the knowledge and skills to implement a positive change, and I believe my lofty mountain of becoming a lawyer is what will allow me to do this and help my community,” says Savannah.
The scholarships are the latest initiative as part of WRMK’s Community Strategy, which has three areas of focus: youth and education, helping families fighting cancer, and mental health.

