Applications are closing this Sunday - for the Rotary Club of Wānaka and Kāhu Youth scholarship!

Established in 2021, the Rotary Club of Wānaka and Kāhu Youth Scholarship provides $1,500 to support local youth to progress their learning - whether at university, polytechnic, trade school, or through an apprenticeship. The scholarship is designed to ease the financial burden for young people who have been out of school for at least six months, as they return to further their education and career development. 

The 2024 Rotary Club of Wānaka and Kāhu Youth Scholarship was awarded to Oscar Waddington. We recently caught up with him and asked him a few questions on how his first year of study has been going.

How did it feel to receive the Rotary Club and Kāhu Youth scholarship? 

Winning the Rotary and Kāhu Youth scholarship was quite a shock, and I didn't expect to win at all. When I did though, it gave me hope for my future, and helped to kickstart my journey into university and adult life. 

What difference did it make?

When you're a student in a busy city, every dollar matters, and the scholarship gave me the means to support my studies and find a home in Wellington, where I didn't have to be under constant pressure.

How has your first year towards your history degree gone?

The first year for History alone has been intense but very rewarding, and I've discovered that I have a wider range of passions than I thought. Following my passions I'm now doing a triple major in History, Political Science, and Cultural Anthropology in my BA. It's a lot of work but I'm loving every second of it.

What would you say to other youth thinking about applying?

To other youths I would say it is worth grabbing onto every opportunity they can get, and applying for this scholarship has helped me find what I love to study.

Fast Facts

What: Rotary & Kāhu Youth scholarship $1500

When: applications close October 12, 2025

Who: local youth 16-24 who have left school for 6 months and are enrolled/ registered in their first year of study

How to apply: visit us here for more info and an application form.

Photo Credit: Deanna Gerlach