SWIFT Scholarship Scheme: Empowering Local Talent for a Brighter Future
The South Waikato Investment Fund Trust (SWIFT) is proud to have completed the second round of its inaugural Scholarship Scheme, reaffirming its commitment to supporting local talent and career development. With an ongoing $50,000 investment each year for five years, SWIFT is dedicated to fostering the growth and potential of the South Waikato community.
This year, SWIFT received an impressive 49 applications and awarded scholarships to 30 deserving recipients. Local businesses have embraced the scheme, encouraging staff to pursue career development opportunities.
One standout example comes from SGS, a local engineering business. After engaging with SWIFT, the SGS team developed a support plan to help staff members apply for scholarships to pursue mechanical engineering courses. Four SGS employees were successfully awarded scholarships, marking a significant milestone in their career development and supporting the growth of skilled professionals within the region.
L-R - Taramai Taramai, Smokey Vissers-Hafa, Tamatoa Petero, Kaiden Reid
To celebrate the occasion, SWIFT joined the SGS team for a morning tea, presenting certificates and sharing inspiring conversations. A highlight of the event came when one recipient was asked, “Where do you see yourself in five years?” His response, pointing to one manager, was, “To have your job,” sparking laughter and excitement among the group.
SWIFTY Shannon Double with SWIFT Scholarship Recipient Smokey Vissers-Hafa
Another great example comes from Go Fox Electrical & Plumbing, a local business that has expanded from electrical services to include plumbing. Recognizing the scholarship scheme as a valuable opportunity to support apprenticeship pathways, Go Fox nominated three staff members to apply. All three were successfully awarded scholarships, further strengthening the local workforce.
SWIFT celebrated this achievement with the Go Fox team over a morning tea, where conversations about the value of developing skilled professionals locally underscored the shared commitment to South Waikato’s future. This initiative continues to play a critical role in building a strong, skilled talent pool, ensuring that local businesses are well-equipped to meet future demands.
L-R - MJ Blanchard, Brody Winterson, Reef Gulde and SWIFTY - Kiani Tuhua
SWIFT is proud to be driving a generational impact, supporting local talent to grow and thrive within the South Waikato community. Interested in how SWIFT can support your business? Contact the SWIFT team at info@swift.org.nz to explore opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Together, South Waikato is Growing Together, Growing Stronger.
