Eden de Kriek — Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Music — University of Auckland

Eden initially navigated testing times during their attendance at a Catholic boys’ school, as an openly queer student. However, as they progressed into their late high school years, they discovered a community of open-minded individuals who provided the support needed for self-acceptance. Proudly, Eden played a role in assisting younger queer students facing similar struggles in that environment.

In 2022 and 2023, Eden actively contributed to the Tūmanako Youth Collective and served as one of two Year 13 members in their school’s prism group, dedicated to supporting queer students. Additionally, they engaged in songwriting through the Play It Strange initiative, aiming to inspire fellow students creatively in expressing their identities.

Looking ahead, Eden is set to embark on a journey of higher education, pursuing a conjoint bachelor’s degree in Music and Art, with a focus on ‘Popular Music’ and ‘Media and Screen Studies’. Excited about the opportunities that await them at the University, Eden eagerly anticipates utilizing their studies as a platform for artistic expression, aiming to inspire others on their own unique paths of self-discover