Final call for Alliance’s 2027 Graduate Programme
Alliance is calling for final applications for its 2027 Graduate Programme, with applications closing on Sunday 25 October.
Burston is a Year 12 student at Waitara High School. She plans to study for a Bachelor of Animal Science at Massey University, with a focus on animal genetics and breeding.
She will be the first person in her family to attend university.
Pāmu on Why It Backs Young People
Pāmu Chief Corporate Services Officer Roz Urbahn said backing young people as they take their next step is one of the best investments that can be made in the future of New Zealand agriculture.
“Pāmu is proud to support young people who have the talent, determination and values to make a difference in our sector,” she said.
Urbahn said Burston’s passion for agriculture, commitment to her community and willingness to work hard made her a standout candidate. “We are delighted to be alongside her as she takes this next step in her education and career,” she said.
Paige Burston's Path to Agriculture
Burston said her love of agriculture developed through spending time on family farms and helping others in the local farming community.
“I am the first person in my family to go to university, and I am determined to pursue opportunities within agriculture,” she said.
She said her passion for agriculture had grown over the last three years, living with and helping her grandparents on the family farm and others in the local agricultural community.
Alongside her studies, Burston is active in her community. She plays and coaches at the Waitara Soccer Club, volunteers at a local primary school and works part-time at a local restaurant. She also regularly helps on her grandfather’s farm.
Pāmu and First Foundation Partnership
Pāmu has partnered with First Foundation since 2011. The partnership helps talented young New Zealanders overcome financial barriers to tertiary study while gaining mentoring and work experience opportunities.
Pāmu said the partnership reflects its commitment to developing future leaders for New Zealand’s food and fibre sector and strengthening opportunities for young people from rural communities.
