Celebrating outstanding social work students

The Ephra Garrett and Merv Hancock Awards honour two trailblazers in social work who were instrumental in founding Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University’s social work degree, the first of its kind at a New Zealand university. Recipients of these awards are nominated by their peers and staff from the School of Social Work in recognition of their leadership and contributions to the field.

Ephra Garrett Award - Georjah Kaharoa Timoko Tansey

Georjah Kaharoa Timoko Tansey, Ngati Porou, Rongowhakaata, Ngapuhi, the proud Ephra Garrett Award recipient, was elated when she received the news and found herself fondly reminiscing about the past four years.

Juggling study and being a proud Mum to two tamariki was no mean feat but Georjah credits this award and her journey to her whānau who have encouraged and inspired her along the way, which ultimately helped guide her towards her passion.

“I love social work because it allows me to make a tangible difference in people's lives, especially those facing systemic challenges and vulnerabilities. It’s a profession rooted in empathy, advocacy, and empowerment, where I can help individuals, whānau, and communities navigate complex issues while fostering social justice and equality.

The sense of purpose that comes from supporting people through difficult times, while also working to create lasting change in society, is what truly drives my passion for social work,” she says.

Georjah’s award citation talks about her leadership and guidance in Te Ao Māori, supporting students to uphold tikanga by leading waiata, karakia and whaikōrero, holding space as a proud Tangata Whenua wahine and how she generously shared her mātauranga with her peers.

Merv Hancock Award - Courtney Williamson and Katelyn Ward Donnellan

This year, two outstanding students, Courtney Williamson and Katelyn Ward Donnellan, were named joint recipients of the Merv Hancock Award.

Courtney Williamson, who is currently travelling around South East Asia after completing her final year and placement in Sweden, expressed her pride in the achievement and her gratitude for the support of her community throughout her studies.

“I honestly could not have done it without my close peers, my mum, my supervisor Karlin Austin, and my friends.

“I have been able to put in hard work because my cup is full and I feel supported by those around me,” she says.

Courtney’s curious nature and passion for people fuelled her interest to study social work. The real bonus noted by Courtney when deciding where to study, was the flexible study mode that Massey’s programme offers, study anytime, anywhere.

“When I began to search universities to study, Massey was a stand out because of its  reputation, internationally recognised social work degree, and the ability to study distance.  Studying online means I keep my hobbies, social time, and study when and where it is convenient to me. I love to travel so I have been able to do that whilst plugging in online.”

Her award citation noted that she has numerous qualities that will be beneficial in social work; deep thinker, highly motivated, strong leadership and respectfulness.

Katelyn Ward Donnellan, the dual recipient of the Merv Hancock Award says she was brought to tears after being recognised for her leadership role as class representative throughout her studies.

“When the opportunity arose to be a class rep, I decided it was time to step up. I was quite shy and anxious but being the rep made me come out of my shell and now I feel more confident. I never did this to be recognised but it’s a real honour to be acknowledged,” Katelyn says.

Katelyn’s award citation highlights her invaluable interpersonal skills and how her leadership skills have developed. It is noted that she ensures her peers feel supported and checks in on them, she has a real empathy and understanding and is the go-to person when they are down and need support.

When asked what was her greatest accomplishment throughout her studies, Katelyn talks about the self-care workshop she designed and facilitated for the staff when she was on placement, which the organisation would like to become a permanent fixture for their staff.

Katelyn is excited and ready to step into the world as a registered social worker and wants to help the youth, one of the areas she is most passionate about.