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Do you have any fond memories from your time at UC you’d like to share?

So many! Studying at UC was transformative. From inspiring lecturers to hands-on research in wastewater, to being a Teaching Assistant for environmental engineering labs. I also joined a field research trip to Cass River and stayed at the UC Mt John Observatory, surrounded by snow and incredible night skies, which felt magical.

Beyond academics, UC was a community. Walking under cherry blossoms, sharing stories with international friends, and feeling welcomed through the Manaaki Scholarship made Christchurch feel like a second home. It was a place that empowered me to grow and gave me the confidence to launch Gen-C when I returned.

What advice would you give to someone looking to make a change within their community?

Start small, start local, and start with what you have. You don’t need to feel completely “ready”, just begin!!. Real change often starts with a personal connection and a simple question: “What can I do right now?”

When Gen-C began, we had no funding, just shared passion. Later, opportunities came, but they only happened because we had already started. Involve others, share your vision, and be patient. Community change doesn’t happen instantly. It takes time, trust, and consistency. You might not see the impact straight away, but seeds grow slowly, ��and when they do, they can change lives.

Like a spring that quietly supports life, even the smallest action can nourish others. As taught in Islam, “Innamal a’malu binniyat”, which means “actions are judged by intentions”. Hence, act sincerely and trust that every effort matters.

Any additional comments or remarks?

I am deeply grateful to UC and the Manaaki Scholarship Programme for believing in me. Their support gave me the courage to return home and serve my community.

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May this story remind others that even the smallest spring can start a river, and even one act of care can flow into something greater.