Sixteen Whanganui iwi members were recently awarded Te Mana o Te Awa scholarships by Ngā Tāngata Tiaki o Whanganui Trust.
All the recipients are completing tertiary studies and half are at Victoria University in Wellington.
Ngā Tāngata Tiaki o Whanganui Trust deputy chairman Dr Rāwiri Tinirau was impressed with the calibre of applicants and the high number of applications this year.
"This year's recipients are studying a broad range of programmes, including health, science, law and Māori studies," Tinirau said.
"In addition to their respective academic merits, the recipients have all demonstrated a commitment to connecting with and contributing to their whānau and hapū, as well as to Te Awa Tupua."