Pāmu has welcomed Taranaki student Paige Burston as its newest First Foundation Scholar, supporting her journey towards a career in agriculture and animal science.
A Year 12 student at Waitara High School, Paige plans to study for a Bachelor of Animal Science at Massey University, with a focus on animal genetics and breeding. She will be the first person in her family to attend university.
Pāmu Chief Corporate Services Officer Roz Urbahn said backing young people as they take their next step is one of the best investments we can make in the future of New Zealand agriculture.
“Pāmu is proud to support young people who have the talent, determination and values to make a difference in our sector.
“Paige’s passion for agriculture, combined with her commitment to her community and willingness to work hard, made her a standout candidate. We are delighted to be alongside her as she takes this next step in her education and career.”
Paige said her love of agriculture developed through spending time on family farms and helping others in the local farming community.
“I am the first person in my family to go to university, and I am determined to pursue opportunities within agriculture,” she said.
“My passion for agriculture has grown over the last three years, living and helping my grandparents on the family farm and others within the local agricultural community.”
Alongside her academic aspirations, Paige is actively involved in her community. She plays and coaches at the Waitara Soccer Club, volunteers at a local primary school, works part-time at a local restaurant, and regularly helps on her grandfather’s farm.
Pāmu has partnered with First Foundation since 2011, helping talented young New Zealanders overcome financial barriers to tertiary study while gaining valuable mentoring and work experience opportunities.
The partnership reflects the Pāmu commitment to developing future leaders for New Zealand’s food and fibre sector and strengthening opportunities for young people from rural communities.
Watch: Paige Burston finding out she's been awarded a First Foundation scholarship.
