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Two tertiary students have each received a $4500 boost to help them complete their final year of study and prepare for their prospective careers in the tourism industry.

The recipients of the 2020 Tourism Industry New Zealand Trust Academic Scholarship were announced at today’s Tourism Summit Aotearoain Wellington.

The scholarships, managed by Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), were awarded to:

  • Rochelle Tait, Victoria University of Wellington
  • Ashlee Reader, New Zealand School of Tourism

The scholarships were open to young New Zealanders about to commence their final year of tertiary study in a tourism-related course in 2020. For the first year since their conception in 2015, the two scholarships were split between one applicant completing level 4-6 qualifications and one completing level 7 and above.

Valued at $4500, each scholarship comprises a $2500 payment towards the recipient’s final year of study in a tourism-related tertiary course, along with attendance at today’s Tourism Summit Aotearoa. The recipients will also receive a day of placement and networking with Wellington-based tourism operators and organisations, a TIA mentor, and continued support from TIA post-study to encourage industry engagement.

Ashlee Reader

Rochelle and Ashlee were both present at the Summit to receive their scholarships from TINZT Trustee and TIA Chair Richard Lauder.

“To support our industry and help ensure sustainable growth, it’s vital that we attract and retain smart young Kiwis like Rochelle and Ashlee so that we can continue to offer world-class experiences to our visitors,” says Mr Lauder.

“These academic scholarships are an important way of reinforcing to some incredible young talent that tourism offers fantastic job opportunities. The prize will help kick-start their careers.”

Mr Lauder says the 2020 scholarships attracted applications from students all over the country. Shortlisted candidates were interviewed by a Scholarship Panel before the two winners were selected.

“This year’s scholarships were hotly contested, but our two winners stood out as having the academic and personal qualities our industry is seeking. They both demonstrated an excellent understanding of the industry and will be outstanding ambassadors for the TINZT scholarship programme. We look forward to welcoming them to the industry when they graduate next year.”

Rochelle Tait