Formerly known as the Arrowtown Autumn Festival Scholarship, rising costs this year meant the committee wasn’t able to commit to funding the award.
Community foundation CEO Jennifer Belmont says they felt so strongly about the value of the scholarship, and the philanthropic behaviour it embodies, "we wanted it to continue".
"Some generous donors have donated the funds to enable us to do this, for which we are very grateful."
Established to recognise and support young leaders who exemplify community spirit and meaningfully contribute to the Whakatipu, the award celebrates Eva’s contribution and dedication over many years.
As a youth advocate for community wellbeing, Eva, 18, has been actively involved in the Arrowtown Scouts for 10 years and over that time has volunteered at many Arrowtown and Queenstown events, and in particular at Arrowtown’s Lakes District Museum for the past two years.
Along with strong academic achievements, she’s also a national ice skating speed champion.
Belmont says Eva’s leadership, commitment to volunteering and drive to make a positive difference represents the values of the $2500 scholarship, which will help support her at Otago Uni next year.
"Eva’s commitment to our community reflects the true spirit of the Whakatipu, and we can’t wait to see the impact she will continue to make in the future."
Belmont notes the foundation’s hoping to secure long-term support for the scholarship to enable the award to continue.
