Master of Applied Social Work students acknowledged for care and community

Senior Lecturer Dr Hagyun Kim extends his best wishes to the recipients as they move into the next stage of their journeys.

“Congratulations to Grace, Leo, Brenda-May and Gemma. They are truly deserving of recognition for their aroha, academic excellence and leadership throughout their studies. They have shown remarkable potential to contribute to social work both domestically and internationally, representing the new generation of practitioners in Aotearoa New Zealand. Their achievements set inspiring examples for future students.”

Student Excellence Award

Grace Amick — Master of Applied Social Work (Second Year)

Grace has been a valued member of the MASW whānau since her first year. She served as class representative, supported her cohort through challenges, contributed to advisory groups, assisted with student recruitment events and provided tutoring within the Bachelor of Social Work programme.

Her lecturers describe her as thoughtful, respectful and dedicated, acknowledging the steady growth in confidence and skill she has shown as an emerging practitioner. Her leadership and communication have strengthened the student experience across the programme.

Grace reflects on the turning point that led her to social work.

“Before beginning my master’s, I felt lost. I enjoyed psychology but knew I wanted a role that was hands-on, working alongside whānau and whaiora. I didn’t realise at the time that I was describing social work. When I discovered it, everything clicked. For the first time I felt purpose, passion and drive.”

She credits her success to the strong support around her.

“The teaching staff fostered this in me, as did my incredible support people at home. I’m rich in love and friendships, and they kept feeding that passion even on the hard weeks.”

A pivotal lesson came when she realised the importance of receiving support as well as giving it.

“My supervisor reminded me that accepting help is essential for good practice. It shifted everything for me. We are never alone, and a good organisation won’t let you be isolated.”

Reflecting on the award, Grace says:

“It reflects not only my academic work, but the relationships I’ve built, the opportunities I took and the growth I have experienced. I like to say I’ve grown up at Massey. Social work chose me, and I’m grateful to be entering a career where I will continue to grow for the rest of my life.”

Leo Van Doorn — Master of Applied Social Work (Second Year)

Leo is known for his thoughtful contributions, curiosity and ability to support inclusive classroom conversations. His steady presence, reflective practice and relational approach have created a respectful and engaged learning environment.

Across placements — including Wellington City Mission and community mental health — he received outstanding feedback for his teamwork, cultural awareness and ability to connect individual experiences with broader systemic issues.

“I have always been involved in care-related work, particularly in the pre-hospital emergency space. I pursued social work because I wanted to work in a role where I could walk alongside people, especially in mental health.”

A formative moment in his learning came from engaging with the Mental Health Act.

“There are many ethical and moral challenges in how it is applied. It reinforced the need to be continuously reflective to uphold social work values and principles.”

Leo acknowledges the award as an unexpected but deeply valued recognition.

“I’m humbled and grateful. I wasn’t expecting it at all. This accomplishment wouldn't have been possible without the continuous encouragement and support from my partner and family. As I take the next steps in my journey, I look forward to learning how to be a better social worker, always with client wellbeing at the centre.”

Te Ata Hāpara Award

Te Ata Hāpara refers to the first light of dawn, symbolising emerging leadership and the potential to bring forward a new day in tangata whenua social work practice. The award acknowledges students who embody ngā mātāpono Māori such as rangatiratanga, manaakitanga and whanaungatanga, while uplifting others through reciprocity, aroha and the pursuit of knowledge.

Gemma Ikahihifo — Master of Applied Social Work (Distance)

Gemma is described as a natural leader whose guidance, care and strength have supported her cohort throughout their studies. She builds strong connections, uplifts her peers and embodies the spirit of learning and reciprocity.

Her role as class representative in the MASW distance programme further reflects her commitment to ensuring student voices are heard and valued.

“I studied psychology in my undergrad but knew I wanted to work more closely with whānau. I had met amazing social workers in the disability sector who created real change, and I knew that was the kind of work I wanted to do. I am passionate about supporting tangata whaikaha.”

Her passion for disability support shaped how she engaged with her placement experiences, including her work with the New Zealand IHC Advocacy Team.

“Tania Thomas taught us that we empower whānau by helping them become their own self-advocates. It reminded me that one of our biggest roles is encouraging whānau to be part of planning and decision-making. Their voices hold value.”

Gemma says the award was an unexpected honour.

“I was shocked. I was part of an amazing cohort who all embodied the values of this award. It confirms that I am in the right role and can aspire to be an awesome social worker. I owe thanks to my whānau, my lecturers and tutors, my classmates and my research supervisor Dr Paulé Ruwhiu. This achievement belongs to the collective.”

Brenda-May Rangitutia — Master of Applied Social Work

Brenda-May’s journey into social work is grounded in lived experience and a deep commitment to ensuring Māori voices are heard and valued. Her story reflects courage, purpose and an unwavering dedication to supporting whānau and tamariki with care, understanding and dignity.

She shares that her desire to study social work emerged from her own experiences navigating systems.

“I wanted to be someone who listens and understands what our people are going through. I want to offer support and care, especially for our tamariki and whānau. That is what guided me into the master’s programme.”

Over two years, Brenda embraced every support available to her.

“The support system at Massey was huge for me. The Māori unit, the library, the tutors, the chaplaincy. Placement was challenging at times, but what I gained was meaningful for my future practice.”

Receiving the award was deeply affirming.

“It is very meaningful to me. I never imagined receiving an award, but it showed me that my teachers saw who I am: a Māori wahine toa. It meant the world.”