Each year, among the hardworking MPTT scholars, we recognise the most outstanding learner in each trade’s pre-training course. As they received their awards, they were full of encouragement for others.
Self-belief is essential
According to his tutors in Electrical pre-trades, Electrical D’Troit Leef-Hema is a born leader and tino pukumahi (very hard-working) young man, with an awesome attitude and is always willing to help anyone who needs support, be it in their studies or just in general. He says, “Don’t be afraid to take a risk and put your name out there.”
Electrical award nominees Anaru Carroll and D’Troit Leef-Hema with MPTT Mana Whakahaere Issac Liava’a
Do the mahi
The nominees and winners of the Outstanding Graduate Awards all worked hard in their courses. Chloe Tupou advises, “Listen in class and take down every detail and every bit of information you can get into your head.”
Her tutor explained, “Chloe had a goal to succeed, and she did. She contributed in all classes, showed good automotive skills, outstanding paperwork, great attitude, attendance and communication.
As a result of her attitude, Chloe has already secured a job in the automotive industry. She says, “In five years, it’s a big ask, but I’d like to open up my own workshop and become my own boss. I’m very into my boy racer vehicles, but if not those old Mustangs.”
Enjoy the ride!
Nadia Ruke was the winner of the Outstanding Hairdressing Graduate. Her tutor, Vicky Grant, says her award was definitely well deserved. “her attendance and her completion of work were to a very high standard. She’s a great team player.”
Nadia is already in full-time work. She’s looking towards a future travelling the world and focusing on avant-garde hair styling. She says, “Advice I’d give to others starting this journey is to stop stressing – that’s the big one. It’s about taking things one step at a time and prioritising well.
Celebrate Māori and Pasifika role models
All the students nominated for our 2023 Outstanding Graduate awards have set a fantastic example and all deserved to win. Congratulations to all of them — thank you for inspiring others.
The nominees for Outstanding MPTT Trainee were (winners in bold):
Automotive: Fred Tollemache (MIT), and Shakyro Marsters (Unitec)
Automotive Award nominees Shakyro Marsters (left) and Fred Tollemache with representative from MITO.
Construction: William Saulala (NZMA), Harris Laulu (OCA), Eliu Fui (Unitec) and Hale Faiumu (MIT)
Construction Award nominees from left: William Saulala, Eliu Fui and Harris Laulu with David Parsons from BCITO
Electrical: D’Troit Leef-Hema (MIT) and Anaru Carroll (Unitec)
Hairdressing: Nadia Ruke (MIT) and Jamiee Tito (MIT)
Hospitality: Felecity Bray (MIT)
Mechanical Engineering: Bobbi Pouesi (Unitec)
Plumbing, Gasfitting & Drainlaying: Stormy Cruze Reihana (MIT) and Hafoka Losaki (NZMA)
Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying award winner Stormy Cruze Reihana (MIT). His tutor Terrance Upfold said Stormy always gave his full attention and commitment and is an outstanding student with a promising future ahead.
Refrigeration & Air Conditioning: Krishal Singh (MIT)
Krishal Singh received his award from Kam Govender, MIT.
Women in Trades: Chloe Tupou (MIT Automotive), Jamiee Tito (MIT Hairdressing) and Alilia Vaka (MIT Mechanical Engineering)
Two of the nominees for Outstanding MPTT Women in Trades for 2023 Chloe Tupou (left) and Alilia Vaka (centre) with Jodi Franklin from MITO.