From an early age, St Hildas Collegiate School head girl Jenny Lander (17) has been a humanitarian.
She has lived in China and Tibet (1997-99), and more recently in Mongolia (2001-05) where she helped to care for babies in an orphanage.
"When you meet people who are victims of abuse or poverty, it becomes a personal cause. You can't help but feel compelled to take action."
Since moving to New Zealand in 2006, Jenny has co-founded the Social Action Group at school, become a peer support leader, international student buddy, attended regional and national Model United Nations Assemblies and World Youth Day in Sydney (2008).
And in her spare time she is a caregiver at Mossbrae Rest Home.
Jenny says she is proud of being involved in the Social Action Group because it promotes global and social awareness.
With an impressive academic record particularly in English and history, Jenny plans to study international relations and development studies at Victoria University.
Ultimately, she hopes to become an advocate for the oppressed and the vulnerable, using communication and writing to promote social justice.
Achievements: NCEA level 1 excellence, 1st history, 1st English, 2nd drama (2006); NCEA level 2 excellence, 2nd English, 2nd history (2007); Academic Blues (2006-07); Australian English Language Competition distinction (2006-07); NCEA level 2 excellence (2007); Madrigal Choir (2006-07); Sings Hilda Choir (2007-08); Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Competition lead role (2006); ODT Poetry Competition winner (2006); Russell McVeagh Debating Championship promising speaker award (2007); 1st Otago Southland Debating Championships (2008).
Role model: Mother Teresa.
Hopes for the future: To become an advocate for social justice.