Love, Mika

Kia ora Studio,

Remember me? I'm Mika, I'm 25, from Ōtepoti/Dunedin but I'm currently living, studying and working in Potsdam, Germany. I love making music, challenging my assumptions and growing constantly with the people around me – and just being outside as much as possible.

I did my Bachelor of Arts majoring in Anthropology at Otago from 2016 to 2018 and during that time I did some volunteering with UniCrew, participated in the Student Leadership Award and also coordinated the Award for a few months while Sze-En was on leave.

Studio, you gave me the opportunity to be part of projects with so many different people: school children, former refugees, community gardening groups and so many more. It really fostered a love of people that has carried through to today. You made me so inspired to see all of the students who were just as passionate about getting stuck in and making a difference, and seeing how much impact we were able to make together.

You are always the little voice in my ear pushing me to get outside of my bubble, making me meet so many fantastic people wherever I go, and because of you I really get to know the place that I am living in on a deeper level and how I can help to make it a better one for everyone.

You encouraged me to get creative in how we can have the best impact, and not be afraid of throwing out a few wild ideas before getting to the right one. Because of you I have more confidence in speaking up and sharing my ideas, even if they’re not fully formed – in work meetings, in study groups or even just in daily life.

When it comes down to it, I think the impact that you have had on me is just to really keep my eyes open to the people and places around me, take the time to say hello, connect and be human with each other. I’m really thankful for the wisdom that I’ve been able to take with me, so thank you for all your mahi. Keep on with what you are doing because I think it's wonderful!

Ngā Mihi Nui

Mika