Karāpiro School student Amelia Seath-Boyte and teacher Johanna Buckley.
Karāpiro School student Amelia Seath-Boyte has been celebrated as one of nine finalists in the national Fred Hollows Humanity Awards.
The annual award, open to 9-11 year-olds, recognises young New Zealanders who make a positive difference in their communities. The national winner will be announced this week.
Amelia was nominated by her teacher Johanna Buckley who described her as a “quietly exceptional young person, who lives the values of compassion, integrity, and kindness every day”.
Outside school, the 10-year-old volunteers with the Salvation Army and the Tourette’s Association.
Amelia said helping others and pitching in at school made her feel happy.
At school, the year 5 student gives her time to set up Chromebooks, prepare PE gear, look after the class worm farm, volunteer as a school librarian and run errands.
“She checks in with me every day to ask what needs doing and completes every task with quiet pride and maturity,” Buckley said.
“She never seeks recognition – but her consistent, gentle actions make her a true role model and a shining example of humanity in action.”
The young student was also known for comforting new entrants and students with complex needs, and making sure no one was left out.
“Amelia often notices what others miss,” Buckley said. “When a junior falls or is upset, she’s the first to respond – offering comfort, getting help, and calmly fetching plasters or ice packs from the office.
“She leads not with words, but through consistent, thoughtful care. It’s this quiet humanity that makes her stand out.”
Amelia was selected from dozens of nominations nationwide and received a finalist certificate and goodie bag at a special school assembly.
Fred Hollows Foundation NZ chief executive Dr Audrey Aumua said stories like Amelia’s showed there was “plenty of hope for the future”.
“It’s inspiring to read about the many young humanitarians across Aotearoa who are showing compassion, kindness and a genuine commitment to making a positive difference,” she said.
Karāpiro School student Amelia Seath-Boyte celebrates being named a finalist in the Fred Hollows Humanity Awards with her teacher Johanna Buckley.
