The MATES Senior Graduation 2024 took place at the Dorothy Winstone Centre at Auckland Girls’ Grammar School. It was a memorable evening celebrating the achievements of Year 13 MATES Mentees from seven secondary schools, attended by families, mentors, teachers and community supporters.

The ceremony opened with a karakia by MATES Programme Manager Teri Fong Murray, followed by an inspiring address from Great Potentials Co-Founder and Co-Chair Dame Lesley Max, which welcomed our guests to an exciting evening. Keynote speakers Dr. Hilary Dutton, a lecturer at the University of Auckland, and Ross McCook from Heart for Youth Trust shared valuable insights on resilience and growth to help our mentees as they move forward in their journeys.

Dr. Hilary Dutton and Ross McCook presenting certificates of completion to Aorere College mentees

Adrianna from Joyce Fisher Charitable Trust and Mark Veale, CEO from Great Potentials Foundation, presenting certificates of completion to Auckland Girls Grammar School mentee

Tāmaki College kicked off the school performances and created excitement among the crowd with their lively performance. This enthusiasm carried into the certificate ceremony, where 70 of our MATES Senior mentees were congratulated by funders, partners, and staff on completing the programme.

Tāmaki College with their opening performance of “This is Me” from the Greatest Showman

 Reflecting on the evening, Rebecca, MATES Coordinator at Southern Cross Campus and Tāmaki College, described the occasion as an amazing opportunity to celebrate our talented Rangatahi and the hard work and dedication that brought them to that moment.“This experience was truly fulfilling, and it was a privilege to be a part of such a meaningful chapter in their journey.”

Southern Cross Campus awarded their certificate of completion by University of Auckland staff, Pat Bullen, and Mel Fainga'a.

Otahuhu College awarded their certificate of completion by Fiona McMillan from Lane Neave Lawyer and Katie Jacobs, trustee of Great Potentials

To close the evening, Year 13 mentees shared personal reflections on their MATES experience, highlighting the positive impact the MATES programme has had on their growth and development.

“My favourite part about MATES was our debriefs. The mentors opened up a safe space for me to express who I am and be confident. I loved getting to interact with the mentors.” - Sofiama, Auckland Girls’ Grammar School

“Something I found really helpful about MATES was that I was able to ask about all my subjects—it wasn’t just science. It wasn’t only school that I could ask about. I could also ask them for help with anything. I also loved that the mentors weren’t awkward, but very welcoming.” -Marana, Henderson High School

 “What I like and love about MATES is the support, kindness, and reliability from the mentors this year, and learning new knowledge and wisdom from them.” - David, Tāmaki College

 "The connection I built with the mentors was easy, allowing me to feel comfortable attending MATES.” - Xaviour, Otahuhu College

Lastly, a special thank you to Joyce Fisher Charitable Trust, Merchant 1948, Lane Neave Lawyers, University of Auckland, Auckland Technology of Technology, New Zealand Youth Mentoring Network, supporters and donors, and everyone who made this celebration possible!