Nicole Odeyami’s childhood was full of movement, change, and connection. Her mother was a foster parent, and they frequently welcomed new children into their home who were experiencing complicated family dynamics.
“I grew up in a home where people were always coming and going, each with their own story, needs, and energy,” says Nicole. “It taught me empathy early on and made me adaptable.”
When Nicole began university in 2021 as part of Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington's inaugural Ngā Hoe a Kupe Pathfinder scholarship cohort, she found that her upbringing perfectly prepared her for life in a hall of residence. The diverse backgrounds and mix of personalities coexisting under one roof felt incredibly familiar. When the opportunity arose to become a residential adviser at Te Puni Village, it seemed like a natural next step.
“Growing up I was surrounded by people from all walks of life—many of whom carried trauma,” explains Nicole. “I saw early on how powerful it was when someone felt seen, heard, and genuinely supported. That shaped my values. On top of that, I personally know how hard it can be to open up and ask for help. I wanted to be someone who makes it feel safer to do so.”
Without the Kupe scholarship, Nicole wouldn’t have experienced life in a hall of residence. The scholarship programme, which supports a cohort of eight to ten students each year, provides full tuition, first-year housing, academic monitoring, and a suite of other services for rangatahi facing financial hardship.
After four years, Nicole is graduating this month with a Bachelor of Health in Health Promotion and a minor in Cultural Anthropology. She cites the Kupe scholarship as the catalyst for the immense growth she experienced throughout her degree.
“The Kupe scholarship changed everything,” says Nicole. “It didn’t just ease the financial burden. It gave me a sense of belonging and belief. Knowing I was chosen for something so significant gave me confidence I didn’t even know I needed. It allowed me to say ‘yes’ to opportunities like leadership roles, mentoring, and volunteering without the constant worry of how I’d get by. The Kupe Scholarship didn’t just fund my education—it helped me find my purpose.”
A career centered on connection
During her two years as a residential adviser, Nicole encountered many challenging scenarios that required delicacy, empathy, and strength. She was the first point of contact for students who needed someone to talk to about academic stress, mental health challenges, or interpersonal conflict.
“Being there for students during their hardest moments gave me a deep sense of purpose and reminded me why I chose this path in the first place,” Nicole says.
“Over the years, I supported students through some incredibly difficult moments—mental health issues, feelings of isolation, and identity struggles. Being the person who could help in those situations really shaped who I am and what I want to continue doing.”
In addition to being a residential adviser, Nicole is currently working with Te Amaru—Disability Services on campus to provide support for the disability community at Te Herenga Waka. While it’s a temporary role, it’s given her the chance to pursue the kind of mahi she wants to continue after graduating.
“I’m hoping to keep working with our minority and disparity communities, whether that’s within the university or through other organisations,” Nicole says. “I’m currently exploring opportunities in the youth and wellbeing space, and I’m feeling excited and hopeful. I know that whatever comes next, the work will be centered on care, connection, and empowerment.”
Learn more about the Ngā Hoe a Kupe Pathfinder scholarship programme and how you can support students like Nicole as they pursue their academic dreams.