Arina and Mauricio were nominated by their teachers in recognition of their remarkable dedication

Two outstanding Year 13 students from Rutherford College, Arina Iaroshenko and Mauricio Salinas Morales, were recently awarded medals for their academic achievements in 2023/24 at the Academic Award 2025 ceremony, held on 5 May at the Fickling Convention Centre in Auckland. The prestigious event, which involved 42 students from 21 Auckland schools, and their families and teachers, was organised by the Aotearoa Resettled Community Coalition in partnership with the Ministry of Education.

Arina and Mauricio were nominated by their teachers in recognition of their remarkable dedication to their studies and their perseverance in overcoming the challenges of settling into a new country. Adjusting to a different culture, a new school, unfamiliar language, and an entirely new lifestyle is no easy task—especially for young people.

Despite these challenges, both students have excelled academically and personally. They are known for their strong work ethic, motivation, and focus. Their teachers describe them as attentive, inquisitive, and equipped with impressive critical thinking skills. With original ideas and a positive attitude towards people and their new environment, Arina and Mauricio truly embody resilience and academic excellence. 

Rutherford College is incredibly proud of their achievements and celebrates their success as an inspiration to the entire school community.

by Ana Gerzic