Annie Graham
Alongside her academic studies, art is Annie Graham’s great passion.
"I hope I can keep an interest in art even when I’m working in the future.
"It doesn’t matter whether it’s drawing or painting — whatever inspires me."
The talented 18-year-old says she is still considering a range of options for university, but she is leaning towards environmental planning and psychology.
"I enjoy problem solving and using that in the context of environmental sustainability would be great.
"I’d like a career that allows me to travel and see the world."
She says her family has been excited to learn of her nomination for Class Act — after an explanation of what it entailed.
"My family, especially my mum, has so much going on at any given time, so it took a while to sink in.
"I was a bit shocked, but it’s nice to be recognised."
Annie is well known at Tokomairiro High School for being mentally strong and very determined.
She lives with a chronic neurological pain disorder, which means she can only go to school four days a week.
Taking an extra day off gives her body time to recover so she can remain focused on the days when she is at school.
She is grateful to friends and school staff who regularly offer help, but is adamant she does not want sympathy.
"I try and make it known to people that I want to get where I’m going by myself."
It is just part of her life and she sees it as a ‘challenge" she has to work through.
"I can’t afford to stop. I’ve got stuff to do."
Annie has really enjoyed being a school prefect and peer supporter this year.
"Hopefully, I’ve inspired some of the younger kids along the way."
And outside school hours, she loves playing hockey.
She has been a member of the school’s senior girls’ hockey team since 2022 and was the team co-captain in 2023 and 2024.
She relaxes by creating art or playing the guitar.
Achievements
NCEA level 1 with merit (2023); 1st in art, English, music and applied mathematics (2023); 1st in English, art, music and financial literacy (2024); NCEA level 2 with merit (2024); senior girls hockey most- improved player (2022), most valuable player (2023, 2024); senior girls hockey co-captain (2023, 2024); best all-round junior prize (2022); school prefect (2025); peer support leader (2025).
Role model
My mum.
Hopes for the future
To travel and go on to further study at either polytechnic or university, while continuing my interest in art.
Nirvana Collins
Nirvana Collins believes hard work can overcome most challenges in life.
The 17-year-old was diagnosed with autism when she was 2 years old, and it has added an extra layer of challenge to many of her achievements in life.
"It’s been a challenge that I’ve had to overcome, but I believe you can do anything, as long as you work hard," she said.
The head prefect says she wants to study psychology at university, with a view to professional practice.
"My dream job is to be a clinical psychologist who works with rangatahi Māori, with a focus on te ao Māori frameworks.
"There’s a shortage of Māori psychologists in New Zealand at present, so I’d like to make a difference."
She says volunteering at the Tokomairiro Community Hub — a local community and social services organisation — had been an inspiring experience.
"It pushed me out of my comfort zone, but I enjoyed it."
Outside of study, creative and musical arts are a passion, she says.
"I love to draw and sketch and we live in a very musical household, so someone is always picking up a guitar."
Stepping up as prefect during the past year had been a very rewarding experience for her.
"It’s been an honour to connect with the younger students and try to be a role model.
"It’s important to take every opportunity that comes your way."
Nirvana says she is proud to be nominated as a Class Act recipient for Tokomairiro High School this year.
"I live with my large whānau here in Milton and it was a ‘wow’ moment when we found out.
"My family is so important to me.
"There were a few tears of joy."
Achievements
Head prefect (2025); NCEA level 1 with merit (2023); NCEA level 2 (2024); 1st in digital technologies school prize (2023); school music and biology prizes (2024); school Otago Polyfest prize (2024); school level 2 Gateway prize (2024); school English prize (2024); Mana Pounamu Award (2025); Tokomairiro Community Hub volunteer (2024); kapa haka (2024, 2025); peer support (2025); year 7-8 leadership camp supervision (2025).
Role model
My mum.
Hopes for the future
To become a clinical psychologist, working with rangatahi Māori, with a focus on te ao Māori frameworks.
