Joseph Samuels

Kia Ora! My name is Joseph Samuels and I have recently graduated from St Paul’s College (Ponsonby). In my final year at Highschool I captained the First XI cricket team, was a member of the First V basketball team, the leader of the special character group and served as a Young Vinnie. At prize giving I was awarded first in economics, statistics, chemistry and physics and received Dux, Best All-Round student and have been privileged of leading the College as the Head Boy in 2025. 

I love sports, the outdoors, challenges and am eager to take on daunting tasks and experience new things. Over the last few years I have been focused on finding out who I am, what I represent and where I want to go in life. My journey has been guided by passion for bettering myself and serving others. I’ve had the opportunity to attend model United Nations Assemblies in Auckland and Christchurch and volunteered over 250 hours in my community. These experiences have taught me to appreciate the blessings of life and the utmost importance of serving others. 

Next year I begin my tertiary education at the University of Auckland studying an Engineering, Commerce conjoint majoring in Finance and, innovation and entrepreneurship. To say I am even remotely close to knowing what I want to actually do with my degree is far from the truth. But despite the questions I have, I am confident about the kind of person I want to be and know the Pinnacle program is an excellent step in the right direction. 

My faith has taught me that leadership is not about power or authority but love and service. It is this faith and the values I carry with me that have brought me to where I am today and will continue to guide me on my journey. I am determined to share my talents with others, contributing to my community and the wider society in a way that helps others find their own passions and achieve their own aspirations.