Mackenzie Fowler – Ministry of Social Development Funding. Bachelor of Arts – Victoria University

Mackenzie has a passion and drive for education. Having been the only out Queer person during their high school experience Mackenzie knows the power and influence of teachers. Believing every student at all learning institutions should be safe and inspirational their career aspiration is to become a secondary school teacher with the aim of revitalising education.

Using this passion and drive Machenzie has made enormous impact at their high school. They founded their schools Queer-Straight Alliance. Now there is active community, which support each other. The QSA managed to design, manufacturing, and disperse an enamel Pride Pin, a physical sign of respect worn by staff and students who wish to display their allyship. Also, Mackenzie organised a week of events during Pride Month, including hosting MP Tāmati Coffey to speak to a full house of excited students, unveiling our new pride book collection in the library, as well as other community events. In June 2022 the pride flag was raised above the school for the first time, a visible symbol of support, seen by all students.

Mackenzie was very motivated seeing vulnerable juniors flourish into friend groups and find a sense of community because of their advocacy. They are passionate to continue this charge forward for diversity, equity and inclusion and sincerely believe Wellington is the place to do this.