Annabelle Stokes (Annie) is a standout member of St Paul’s Collegiate School, recognised for her kindness, compassion, and dedication to both her studies and community service. These traits are some of the many reasons Annie has received this year’s Altrusa Youth Award. The recipient of this award is chosen from a Year 12 student who excels in school life and is considered a role model within their community.
Her commitment to giving back shines through her leadership in activities such as the weekly ukulele and art clubs at St Joan’s Hospital, where she connects with elderly residents through music and art. She also serves as a Peer Support Leader, facilitating activities for Year 9 students and guiding them in their transition into school life. Beyond the school grounds, Annie leads the "Over the Fence" programme at Bankwood Primary School and volunteers with the Refugee Orientation Programme, mentoring young refugees and participating in events like World Refugee Day. In Tauranga, she extends her service by volunteering at Althorp Retirement Village and the "Under the Stars" soup kitchen, where she helps prepare and serve meals to those in need.
Annie’s competitive spirit is equally evident in her passion for running and mountain biking. She placed eighth at the WaiBOP X-Country Championships and represented St Paul’s at the Zones Athletics event. Her mountain biking skills earned her third place in the enduro discipline at the North Island Schools MTB Championships. She also plays on the Second XI Girls' Hockey Team and actively supports the hockey community by volunteering as an umpire for junior and social games.
Annie’s love for the outdoors is a significant part of her life, and she enjoys mountain biking, skiing, white water kayaking, adventure racing, and tramping. Her dedication to these pursuits has led her to complete the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, with aspirations to achieve the Silver and Gold Awards before she graduates in 2026.
Academically, Annie is a top performer, maintaining a GPA of 97% last year. Her passion for mathematics, sciences, and art drives her success. She has placed in the top 30 of the University of Otago Mathematics Competition and earned high distinction in the Australasian Mathematics Competition. Her artistic talent is equally impressive, with her painting portfolio selected for the national ArtStart exhibition, where she is shortlisted for a $5,000 scholarship. This year, she is tackling scholarship subjects and Level 3 courses while continuing to tutor younger students, further enriching the academic success of her peers.
Annie’s achievements, both in and out of the classroom, reflect her unwavering commitment to excellence and her genuine desire to uplift those around her. Congratulations, Annie.
