"I wanted this scholarship mostly for the mentoring that it offers. It's something that I know will be extremely valuable as I go into university and something I am very lucky to get," says Rita.
Rita's parents emigrated from Iraq via Jordan in 1996, a few years before she was born. Rita is an accomplished piano player, and during her time in Auckland has volunteered at the Mangere Refugee Resettlement Centre. Her native language Arabic has proved useful during days spent engaging with new refugees and their children, many of whom speak Arabic.
Rita was also awarded the Mike Cormack Prize earlier this year, an annual award for young people who have made an outstanding contribution to the community with integrity, leadership, sportsmanship and commitment.
The scholarship offers support to promising school leavers each year through offering work experience, assistance with study-related costs and a guaranteed summer clerk position at Russell McVeagh law firm during the final years of tertiary studies.
John Paul College principal Patrick Walsh said Rita was a high performing student who excelled academically and in speech and drama during her time at the school.
"We offer our congratulations to Rita and wish her all the best for her future."
