Give talented young Kiwis a brighter future
Many highly capable students are held back by their socio-economic status. With your help, we can change that.
Many highly capable students are held back by their socio-economic status. With your help, we can change that.
What’s happening now
The Fabulous Ladies Giving Circle shows philanthropy is open to everyone
We’re opening the door for more people to join the First Foundation giving community. Small contributions, shared with friends, whānau or colleagues, can add up to something life-changing for a young person.
The extraordinary potential of 2026
654 rangatahi applied for a 2026 First Foundation scholarship, and in this piece you’ll meet five of them and see how Scholarship Partners help close the gap between the talent we meet and the places we can offer.
Every young Kiwi should have the same chance to succeed
With your help, First Foundation supports bright young Kiwis whose circumstances make it harder to attend university – giving them financial assistance, exposure to the world of work and a dedicated mentor.
Our four-year programme helps these talented New Zealanders navigate from school, through higher education and into a meaningful career. This dramatically improves each student’s opportunities in life, giving them the support and professional networks many of us take for granted.
Financial help
Each student is sponsored by an organisation, called a scholarship partner, which provides financial support over three years towards university costs.
Mentoring
We match students with a dedicated mentor, who helps them overcome challenges and transition from school to university, and into the professional world.
Work experience
Scholars get multiple opportunities for exposure to the world of work each year, growing their skills and professional networks while supporting them financially.
Exponential impact
Your support doesn’t only help students – it has powerful and lasting benefits for their whānau and community.
Young people in our programme are often first in their family to attend university, and become a positive influence on their whānau and communities for generations to come. Many use their improved finances to help support their parents, siblings or wider whānau, creating a ripple effect throughout all their lives.
“Being the first in my family to attend university is an honour.”
“I’ve always encouraged my siblings to strive for their best. If I can reach my fullest potential, it inspires them to chase their own dreams.”
SHANIYAH MUNROE, 2019 GAWITH DEANS FAMILY TRUST SCHOLAR
Stay in touch
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What would you like to do?
Apply for a scholarship
Thrive at university with financial support, valuable one-on-one mentoring and exposure to the world work.
Give financial support
Provide vital support to deserving young Kiwis and help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty.
Mentor a student
Become a mentor to help a talented student from a disadvantaged background reach their potential.
Meet our alumni
Our alumni are trailblazers who make the most of every opportunity. Read their inspiring stories.
