Isabella Baldwin

Kia Ora

My name is Isabella Baldwin,  I am 15 years old and am in Year 11 at Marlborough Girls College, and I live in Renwick Marlborough. I am currently part of the Pinnacle Programme Stage One.

I have diverse interests, including singing, strength training, athletics, diving, and fishing, but my passion is Rugby.

I am involved in many groups, Marlborough Youth Council, UN Youth NZ, Ovation Marlborough Girls College Senior Choir, Duke of Edinburgh, and Girl Boss, and I am Captain of the MGC 1st XV rugby team. Rugby is where my main focus lies. Last year, I was selected for the Tasman Mako U18 team at 14 as a Tighthead Prop, and I am currently aiming to be selected again this year. My dream is to work towards being selected for Canterbury, Matatū, and then someday represent my country as a Black Fern.

I am also passionate about supporting, encouraging and developing the pathways for all young girls and women to play rugby, a sport that provides comradery, a sense of belonging, fitness, a place for anyone regardless of age, size, and build, race, and without any socioeconomic boundaries while sharing a common passion.

I hope the Pinnacle Programme allows me to be part of an amazing team of like-minded people, and through the mentoring and workshops, I will receive the support to help lay down the pathways for my goals. In my future, alongside my rugby hopes, I hope that any pathway I choose will allow me to support and encourage others to follow their goals with no hindrance.