St Patrick's Catholic School student Nina Lugtu receives her award from Westpac consultant Sarah Johnston.
Young leaders from around the Waipā have been recognised for their leadership qualities with a Sir Peter Blake Young Leader Award.
The annual awards acknowledge young New Zealanders who demonstrate outstanding leadership within their school communities.
This year's nominations contain a range of stories about children who shine through their own leadership approach — be it big and bold or quiet and caring.
One award recipient was Nina Lugtu of St Patrick's Catholic School in Te Awamutu.
She was presented with a prize pack, certificate and Sir Peter Blake Medal.
The Year 8 student is described by teachers as a quiet and humble leader who puts other students before herself and demonstrates the school's virtues.
Nina is the school's head girl and is looking forward to attending Te Awamutu College next year.
James Gibson, CEO of the Sir Peter Blake Trust, says the awards aim to highlight young talent in New Zealand and encourage students to be proud of their unique leadership style.
"New Zealand needs diverse leaders into the future," he says.
"We believe that identifying and celebrating these young people will show them that their actions are already making a positive difference within their communities.
"We want to use this opportunity to encourage them to continue to strive towards being our future leaders," he says.
Also receiving an award from Waipā was Lily James of Te Awamutu Primary School, Kate Gallien of Kōrakonui School, Milla Crickett-Tairi of Cambridge Primary School, Olivia Emmett of Karāpiro School, Macy MacPherson of Leamington School, Lucy Dawson of Roto-o-Rangi School, Bella Peacocke of St Peter's Catholic School and Avè Culpan of Kio Kio School.
As the year draws to a close, Waikato Herald is taking stock of 2024.