Malindi Reihana-Ruka awarded Trimble Karahipi Hangarau/Technology Scholarship
A beacon of determination and ambition
Malindi Reihana-Ruka, a dedicated third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Surveying at Otago University, embodies resilience and unwavering determination in the face of financial adversity. Her recent scholarship award represents a significant milestone in her educational journey, alleviating the burden of student loan debt and enabling her to focus on her academic pursuits.
With a strong resolve to navigate university without the weight of a loan, Malindi’s aspirations were fueled by witnessing firsthand the detrimental impact of debt on her family and friends. She actively applies for scholarships and works two jobs to make ends meet. The scholarship not only eases her financial strain but also enables her to dedicate herself to her studies without the stress of balancing work and studies.
“My goal is to not pay for university through a loan. I can see how debt has affected my friends and family and I didn’t want to have those same burdens,” Malindi shares.
She expressed her gratitude, emphasising the significance of this support, “Having this financial support means the world to me. I can focus on my studies and not run myself into the ground. It’s absolutely unbelievable, and I am extremely grateful,” she says.
Looking ahead, Malindi is passionate about the environment and community, envisioning a future career aligned with her values. She aspires to work in a field that places the environment and community at the forefront, driven by her childhood experiences living close to the beach and witnessing the impact of climate change firsthand. Her dream job involves working for a company that shares her values and is dedicated to environmental sustainability and inclusivity.
Expressing her eagerness to contribute to an industry where women are underrepresented, Malindi highlighted her goal to pave the way for future generations, stating, “I want to be the catalyst for change, altering the perception of surveyors and paving a new path for the industry.” Her commitment to empowering Māori communities through her chosen profession reflects her deep-rooted desire to be a driving force for positive change.
When asked about her aspirations, Malindi expressed her interest in pursuing an internship with Trimble as she admires their inclusive culture and shared values. She emphasises her desire to work for a company that prioritises sustainability and community impact, valuing personal growth and inclusivity in the workplace.
Malindi’s journey into surveying was inspired by her love for the environment and the outdoors, coupled with the guidance of a careers advisor. Her enthusiasm for the field is fueled by her desire to make a positive impact and challenge stereotypes, particularly paving the way for women and Māori in the industry. She envisions a future where her work as a surveyor can facilitate the development of Māori communities and provide opportunities for future generations.
Hailing from a coastal community, 20 minutes north of Keri Keri, Malindi’s upbringing immersed her life in a closely intertwined environment. Her love for outdoor activities such as surfing, swimming and horse riding further shaped her passions. Embracing the spirit of exploration and a thirst for new experiences, Malindi’s diverse interests and unwavering dedication to her education underscore her remarkable journey as a scholar.
As a proud member of Ngāpuhi, her journey exemplifies the resilience and determination driven by a profound sense of purpose. Her unwavering commitment to her education, passion for the environment, and dedication to breaking barriers in her chosen field are testaments to her exceptional character and resilience. With her eyes set on a future where she can make a meaningful difference, Malindi's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring scholars and underscores the transformative impact of a scholarship on an individual's pursuit of academic and professional excellence.
