Social work students recognised for outstanding achievement and leadership

Bachelor of Social Work students Sara Menzies, Ngāti Raukawa and Sarah Ward have been named recipients of this year's Social Work Student of the Year Awards, which celebrate students who have demonstrated excellence throughout their studies while embodying the values of the profession through service, leadership and advocacy.

Sara received the Whaea Ephra Garrett Student of the Year Award, while Sarah was awarded the Merv Hancock Student of the Year Award.

For both women, the recognition came as a surprise and an opportunity to reflect on the journeys that led them to social work.

"I was honestly shocked when I found out I was the recipient of the Whaea Ephra Garrett Award for Student of the Year," Sara says.

"It was completely unexpected, and I felt incredibly honoured and humbled."

Sarah says she was equally surprised when she received the call informing her of the award.

"It took a bit of time and conversations with friends and family to realise that all the hard work and dedication I have shown over the past five years was just as worthy."

While their pathways into the profession were different, both were motivated by personal experiences and a desire to support others.

Sara says her decision to study social work was shaped by the challenges she had faced throughout her own life.

"I wanted to turn my own life experiences into something positive by using what I have learned to support and empower others."

For Sarah, the inspiration came following a spinal cord injury and the support she received during her recovery.

"I wanted to make the same difference my social worker made for me, for others."

Throughout her studies, Sara became known for her commitment to supporting fellow students and her leadership through Te Rau Puāwai, experiences that reinforced the importance of encouragement and connection.

"Supporting others can be just as important as achieving our own goals."

Sarah's dedication to advocacy was demonstrated through her involvement in an initiative to create a more accessible study space in the library, reflecting values that are central to both her personal life and professional practice.

"Being a wheelchair user myself, accessibility and inclusion are central to me personally and in my practice."

Field education placements were among the most transformative experiences for both students. Sara says attending noho marae and undertaking placements deepened her understanding of culture, connection and whanaungatanga in social work.

"These experiences reinforced that social work is about meeting people where they are, recognising their strengths and walking alongside them rather than trying to fix everything for them."

Similarly, Sarah says placements in family violence and disability services strengthened her passion for the profession and highlighted the growing need for skilled social workers.

"My most recent placement in disability was a beautiful way to finish the degree. It reinforced for me that social work is needed now more than ever."

While balancing study alongside professional, personal and family commitments brought challenges, both graduates credit the people around them for helping them succeed. Sara acknowledges the support of her whānau and Homebuilders community, while Sarah says the connections she formed with classmates were among the highlights of her time at Massey.

"We were all there for one another, providing support, encouragement and laughs. These people are going to make amazing social workers," Sarah says.

Sara hopes to continue developing her practice in areas including mental health, addiction and support for older people, while Sarah is exploring opportunities in community-based social work.

Both award recipients expressed gratitude for the support of their friends, whānau, peers and lecturers throughout their studies. Their awards recognise not only academic excellence, but also the compassion, resilience and commitment to service that will help shape stronger communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.