Ryan Williams

Kia Ora, I’m Ryan Williams, and I have recently graduated from South Otago High School in Balclutha, where I was Deputy Head Boy. I am someone who is deeply passionate about the connection between Science, the Arts and Matauranga Maori principle, in my endeavours, and this is where I see my future heading.

Arts are a voice of communication for myself, music, visual art (painting, and printmaking) and creative writing allow me to express my opinions, ideas, and greater thoughts in efforts for positive change. Fortunately over the years, I have been able to exhibit many of my works, at various exhibitions such as the Ringa Toi Exhibition at Te Papa, and at the Arts House Trust, Pah Homestead. As well as this my Painting Folio last year receiving an Outstanding Scholarship and being a part of the nationwide tour of the country through the Top Art Exhibition. However, to me Art is more than just about simply creating something visually, or audibly pleasing, it is creating meaningful connections with the viewer, reader, or listener, to make tangible impact and change. 

Beyond the arts, science and conservation are a big part of my identity. Over the past 4-5 years, I have been involved in my research project ‘Wairiu wai kare toitu ahuwhenua’ examining the effect of wetland developments in creating sustainable agriculture, which I have recently presented internationally at the International Youth Science Forum in London. Engaging in environmental impact is empowering, and needed in the current state of our world, and an issue of which is deeply personal to me. 

At its core, all efforts I do come back to the idea, that I can give back to my community, whether that be in community roles, such as Chairperson of the Youth Council, science work informing agriculture practice locally and beyond, or communication through the arts, my community, is at the heart of what I do.

Moving forward, I am looking to explore different pathways--scientifically and artistically--within university at Dartmouth College in the United States, possibly in the Medical or Environmental fields. While still having the goal of coming back and giving back to my people, and community.

I am really looking forward to expanding this further through the Pinnacle Programme, and am beyond grateful to be selected. I can’t wait to start engaging with the different aspects of the programme, and taking part in Spirit of Adventure and Outward Bound.