Massey student awarded prestigious Prime Minister’s Scholarship

As the end of the year approaches, Shahmea Nowakowsky is counting down to her adventures after Christmas and the journey she will embark on in early 2024.

“It is an opportunity that is truly a dream come true! I consider myself incredibly blessed to be granted this once-in-a-lifetime experience and can't wait to bring back the knowledge and experiences that will shape my future and the futures of those I love. India, here I come!"

The Bachelor of Social Work student was recently selected as one of 24 participants for the Reimagining India Study Tour offered by IndoGenius, a joint programme with Waikato University and Victoria University of Wellington, led by the University of Auckland.

What makes this opportunity even more special for Shahmea is that, as the first of her family to attend university, she is also the first to receive a prestigious scholarship that will help her to embark on an overseas adventure.

Over 185 applications were received across Aotearoa New Zealand for the Reimagining India Study Tour, which is part of the 2023 Prime Minister’s Scholarships for Asia (PMSA) programme. These scholarships are funded by the New Zealand Government and administered by Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao. With a value of $15,600, this PMSA scholarship opens the door to an extraordinary opportunity for Shahmea.

“This journey promises to be an incredible immersion into the heart and soul of India, a country teeming with rich history, diverse cultures and a tapestry of realities. I am eager to soak in every bit of knowledge, from the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the mesmerising beauty of Jaipur and the majestic Himalayas, gaining unique insights that will forever shape my perspective," Shahmea says.

As a young mother of two, Shahmea is a distance student at Massey, fitting in her studies around the demands of being a parent. She is excited about the opportunity to share this journey with her tamariki as an example of the possibilities education and determination can unlock.

“As a mother, especially one who became a parent at a young age, I am particularly excited to show them that with hard work, unwavering dedication and the willingness to push beyond our limits, we can achieve greatness, regardless of who we are or where we come from.”

Shahmea will leave in January 2024 for the six-week experiential learning programme, which includes visits to Indian institutions, companies, NGOs and government bodies.