Twin Ambitions for Twin Brothers

WHO WE ARE?

Innovation in technology and environmental responsibility is all around us and we – Tré and Isaiah Ratahi of Taranaki and Nga Puhi descent – aspire to be a part of this by pursuing a conjoint degree in commerce and science. We are versatile and perseverant students who aim for excellence in all areas of life. Education to us is a privilege, and a means to accomplish our career goal of creating lucrative, socially and environmentally constructive global businesses in New Zealand. But, successful international entrepreneurship also requires practical and immersive experience of other cultures, and a global outlook. That’s why this opportunity is so valuable.

WHY INVEST IN US?

We are determined to improve our career pathway by participating in an academic exchange and we have chosen our destination with great care. What better place for a future Maori entrepreneur to gain multilingual competence and an international outlook than in Germany – the “land of ideas and innovation” and Europe’s strongest economic power, a country that shapes globalisation through its effective alliances? Our journey will take us to the University of Konstanz for the first half of 2015.

We trust that our strong leadership and interpersonal skills will enable us to proudly represent Victoria University while on exchange. And we are also confident that our knowledge of Tikanga Maori will allow us to present our country’s cultures with discernment – this, we believe, is a point of difference that makes us excellent ambassadors for New Zealand.

WHY WE NEED INVESTMENT?

We have currently raised NZ$ 16,600 of the NZ$ 30,000 required for the two of us to spend one semester in Konstanz through grants and scholarships provided by Victoria University and the Baden-Württemberg Federal State in Germany. Coming from a one-parent-household, we face a challenge and are looking at crowdfunding to assist in covering the deficit. We have set ourselves a goal of NZ$12,000 and we would appreciate your support to get us there!

On our return home, we promise to acknowledge the generosity of our communities by sharing our international study experience with the public and inspiring other students, particularly Maori and Pasifika students, to set a goal of an academic exchange overseas.

Innovation. Education. Entrepreneurship. Journey. Growth.

Thank you for promoting young Maori leadership and international engagement, and making an inspiring Maori youth success story happen!

Nga mihi, danke schön!