Local grants go a long way in supporting the Ōtara-Papatoetoe community - sometimes in quiet, behind-the-scenes ways, and other times in moments that shine, like this one.
It begins with a simple message of thanks that the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board received late last year.
“Talofa, my name is Noah Mati and I’m currently a Year 10 student at De La Salle College. I’m emailing to express my thanks and gratitude to you all,” he wrote.
At his school’s 2024 Junior Prizegiving, Noah had been awarded the Ross Robertson Cup for Public Speaking and the Civic Leadership Cup, presented by local board member Li’amanaia Lorenzo Kaisara.
The Civic Leadership Cup is supported by the Local Board, and the Ross Robertson Cup was created by former MP Ross Robertson.
“I’m truly grateful for the recognition and thank you for your support of our school and us as students,” Noah shared.
Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board Chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia says it’s moments like these that show the true value of local grants — not just in funding, but in how they inspire and uplift young people.
“We’re proud to back opportunities that celebrate student leadership and talent. It’s awesome to see young people like Noah doing big things - part of the next generation of changemakers — not only excelling academically but also recognising the value of community support from the Local Board. I mean Noah reached out just to say thanks. That’s real. And yeah, we’re feeling kinda cool right now! Congratulations to all the students who picked up awards, and a special congrats to Noah,” Apulu says.
Noah is now in Year 11 at De La Salle college and thriving.
At the prizegiving, across Years 7–10, 386 students earned their De La Salle Certificate, which recognises outstanding effort across Faith, Service, Community, and Excellence. More than 140 students received Merit badges, and those who earned 150+ points were honoured with the De La Salle Certificate with Excellence.
His story is a small but powerful reminder that every grant (and support from Parliament too!) the board gives is an investment — not just in programmes, but in people, their futures, and the communities they’ll go on to shape.
Well done Noah!
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