Ethan Andrews

“Just back yourself and give things a go. Put yourself out there, take opportunities when they come, and don’t be afraid to try something new — that’s where growth happens.”

Ethan Andrews (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Porou) is the first recipient of the Tupu Ake Award, introduced by the Māori and Pacific Career Development and Employability Services (CDES) team to celebrate the growth, leadership, and success of our tauira.

Ethan has completed the Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting and Commercial Law, and is set to graduate this year in 2026. With a diverse background, Ethan brings a strong sense of identity, connection, and community into everything he does.

During his time at Waipapa Taumata Rau, Ethan has taken on significant leadership as Co-President of Career Leaders — a student-led initiative focused on supporting tauira in their career journeys. Through this role, he has been committed to creating opportunities for others, reflecting his belief in the power of connection and collective growth.

Ethan joined Te Haerenga after a friend encouraged him to sign up. Initially unsure and balancing a busy schedule, he decided to give it a go, a decision that quickly paid off.

“I didn’t know what to expect at first, but once I got into it, I realised how valuable it was. It pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way.”

Through interactive workshops like the elevator pitch challenge, Ethan developed his ability to think on his feet, problem-solve, and build confidence in networking situations.

“It really pushed me to test my boundaries in a safe environment. You’re learning alongside other people, and that makes it easier to grow.”

Te Haerenga played a key role in strengthening Ethan’s confidence and approach to networking, helping him to consistently show up and engage with opportunities.

“I used to hesitate going to events, but over time it just became easier. The more you practice, the more confident you get and you grow together with the people around you.”

The programme also had a tangible impact on his career readiness. After applying what he learned in the CV workshop, Ethan successfully secured an internship, a milestone he attributes in part to the skills gained through Te Haerenga.

Beyond professional development, Te Haerenga supported Ethan to reconnect more deeply with his Māori identity.

“It helped me get more in touch with that side of myself and take up opportunities I might have otherwise hesitated to go for.”

Reflecting on his journey, Ethan highlights the importance of connection as one of his biggest learnings from university.

“You won’t go far alone. Meeting people and building connections is probably the most important thing as uni is such a short time, so make the most of it.”