Matilda Hall

Talofa, Kia Ora and Hello!

My name is Matilda, I am 17 years old and live in Wellington, and I will be going into year 13 in 2026 at Hutt Valley High School. I am very grateful and honoured to be selected for stage one of the Pinnacle Programme, and am excited for everything this journey and programme has to offer! In my spare time I enjoy baking, travelling, and spending time with my family and friends. As well as enjoying the scenery of New Zealand as I have completed a few of the great walks within NZ, my favourite being the Kepler track!

I am passionate about making a positive and strong change in the world, while I do not know if I want to have a career involved in medicine, humanities or global studies. I know that I have an end goal of having a lasting and strong impact which aids others. Whether this be having a voice for those who do not, or aiding in healthcare to those less fortunate, I know I want to make a strong difference in whatever I do. As well as having a strong focus in the Pacific, linking to my heritage and roots in Samoa. Discovering and eliminating the barriers which hold many back, and making change for a better future. Globally I hope to understand many cultures, and see the experiences which many face daily, as well as bringing awareness to the issues that are present in our society today. I hope to not only make positive change within my community and in New Zealand, but around the world also.

A quote which inspires me to move forward, through the words of Barack Obama; “Change will not come if we wait for some other person, or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek”.

I am incredibly excited and grateful to the many opportunities present within the Pinnacle Programme, and how this can aid in achieving my goals and finding the direction of what career I want to have. To challenge myself, as well as build the skills and confidence necessary, through life changing experiences and the connections and mentoring available, I cannot wait to get started with the Hyundai Pinnacle Programme.