The Sisters of Compassion wish the three 2026 Suzanne Aubert scholarship recipients the very best for their university studies this year.
Tiffany Tapa will use her scholarship to continue her studies in Bachelor of Nursing Māori; a path she says reflects both her aspirations and sense of responsibility to her people.
“Giving back to my people is purposeful mahi that aligns with my core values of manaakitanga and service. Nursing provides an opportunity to serve my iwi and wider communities in a practical and meaningful way. This journey is also important for my whānau; I hope to show my son that tertiary education is achievable, that setting goals matters, and that commitment can open new direction for the future.
Tiffany would like to use her degree to address inequities in health outcomes for Māori and support improved wellbeing for whānau across Aotearoa.
“To the Sisters of Compassion, I am sincerely grateful for your generosity and humbled to share my story as a mokopuna of the Whanganui River, where our kuia Meri Hōhepa, dedicated much of her time, aroha, and wairua to caring for others, including my own whānau”.
Alexandra Phelps, a keen conservationist and bird lover, is studying for a degree in Statistics and Zoology. Alexandra grew up in a large, Catholic, conservation-oriented family, with a strong belief in God, the community, and the importance of service.
“My passion for the environment (and birds!) has grown throughout my life. Aotearoa is a place of great biodiversity and following the completion of my studies, I intend to work toward the preservation of our endemic and native seabird species.
Alexandra is pleased to have received the Suzanne Aubert Tertiary Scholarship as an affirmation of my path
“This scholarship puts me in the best possible position to begin my second year at university while doing my best to embody Mother Aubert and the Sisters of Compassion’s values. It is my goal to continue to drive environmental protection through compassion, community building and integrity with Mother Aubert and her work in mind”.
Alessandra Basile is entering her second year at Victoria University, studying a Bachelor of Science majoring in Chemistry and Psychology. Her goal is be accepted into the clinical psychology/neuroscience programme at Victoria University, eventually pursuing a doctorate degree.
“Throughout my studies and beyond, I want to give back to my community. Hopefully, with the qualifications I earn, I’ll be able to allocate professional time to provide low-cost mental health advice for those struggling to afford the care they need. Receiving this scholarship helps reduce the financial burden of university fees, allowing me to focus more on achieving my life goal.”
Congratulations to the three recipients whose goals and service reflect the spirit of Suzanne Aubert.
