Whakaeke Pōneke - MinterEllisonRuddWatts First in Whānau Award

The main purpose of the Award is to encourage greater diversity in the law profession by providing financial assistance and pastoral support to Māori law students who are the first member of their whānau tonu (immediate family) to attend university and/or will be the first in family to graduate with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). The award is intended to assist with study or living costs. Recipients of the award receive pastoral care in the form of a mentor from MERW for a period of 12 months, and assistance with preparing their CV. They may also have the opportunity for paid work experience with MERW. Selection is based on academic achievement, the applicant's demonstrated passion for a career in law, potential to contribute to the law profession, motivation to succeed at university, and their personal circumstances including any financial or other hardship, as assessed by a personal statement and kōrero with the MERW Selection Committee.