Celebrating Local Talent: Sumner Ferrymead Scholarship Recipients Paving the Way for a Brighter Future


The Sumner Ferrymead community has long been known for its vibrant spirit and strong sense of connection. This year, that legacy is reflected in the outstanding achievements of four Sumner Ferrymead Foundation scholarship recipients —Mitchell Kane, Thomas McEwan, Cameron Chamberlain and Nico Taiarahia Heather,. These young leaders embody ambition, resilience, and gratitude, and their stories are a testament to the power of community support and personal determination.


The Sumner Ferrymead Foundation announced the winners of the 2025 Scholarships and Awards Programme on 4th July. Recipients are:

  • $5000 Scholarship for a student studying the sciences at university - Sponsored by a Redcliffs resident.

    Recipient: Mitchell Kane

    University of Canterbury civil engineering student Mitchell received the Sumner Ferrymead Foundation $5000 Sciences Scholarship. With a passion for environmental and geotechnical engineering, Mitchell plans to become a chartered engineer dedicated to developing sustainable infrastructure in New Zealand’s smaller communities. Read more about Mitchell here


  • $5000 Scholarship for a student studying the health sciences at university - Sponsored by RJ Begg & Associates Ltd – Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.

    Recipient: Thomas McEwan

    Thomas, a Health Sciences Scholarship recipient and student at the University of Otago (Christchurch), is currently completing his Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences with Honors, majoring in Drugs and Human Health. With aspirations to become a doctor, Thomas is also deeply committed to cancer research. Read more about Thomas here


  • $5000 Scholarship for a student studying the humanities at university - Sponsored in memory of Richard Brinkman.

    Recipient: Cameron Chamberlain

    Cameron, a recipient of the Humanities Scholarship, is studying International Affairs and preparing for a career with the New Zealand Defence Force as an Intelligence Officer. With his sights set on future deployments, Cameron hopes to combine academic expertise with real-world experience. Read more about Cameron here


  • $2000 Apprentice Award for those commencing their apprenticeship: - Sponsored by Laser Plumbing Christchurch East.

    Recipient: Nico Taiarahia Heather

    First-year carpentry apprentice Nico is the recipient of the Apprentice Award, supported by Laser Plumbing. With plans to travel the world as a certified builder, Nico is already making strides in his career while staying grounded in his Sumner roots. Read more about Nico here