Hall of Fame - HR Student of the Year Award
HRNZ is dedicated to supporting the next generation of HR talent
The HR Student of the Year Award recognises exceptional final-year students who are on the path to becoming outstanding HR practitioners. Whether studying Human Resource Management, broader management, or a related field, these are the individuals who demonstrate stand-out potential.
Winning this award signals to the profession that this is someone worth watching: a future HR leader who brings the knowledge, drive, and people-first thinking that our industry needs.
We're proud to celebrate the talented students who have earned this recognition, and to champion the emerging voices who will shape the future of HR in New Zealand.
Think you could be next? If you're a current final-year student and a paid HRNZ student member, we want to hear from you. Find out more about the upcoming awards and how to apply.
HR Student of the Year Award winners
Poppy Fogarty, University of Otago
HR Student of the Year 2025
Poppy Fogarty recently graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Marketing and Human Resource Management, and a minor in Psychology. In the summer of 2023, she gained hands-on experience through an HR internship at MBIE and was later selected as the HRNZ Student Ambassador for Otago in 2024.
At MBIE, Poppy played a key role in the People Hub, advising employees and managers on HR matters, producing legal documentation, and strengthening her understanding of HR processes. As an HRNZ Ambassador, she boosted student engagement by organizing events, promotions, and speaking at lectures, while collaborating with industry bodies to upskill emerging and established leaders.
During her time at MBIE, Poppy supported managers and employees through a period of change, helping them navigate challenges and succeed. As an HRNZ Ambassador, she built strong connections with HR professionals and inspired students to pursue their own HR journeys.
Letisha White, University of Otago
HR Student of the Year 2024
Letisha actively strives to develop and grow HRM as a previous student ambassador for Otago, and her three year involvement with HRNZ. As a Student Ambassador, she organized three impactful events, including "Korero with Professionals," which inspired students to join HRNZ.
Her role at the Career Development Centre, along with studies in employment relations, leadership, and strategic HRM, has equipped her for a career in HR.
She is dedicated to incorporating Te Ao Māori principles in HR, stemming from her bicultural upbringing. She is excited to join Deloitte's Organisation Transformation in 2024 and to make a meaningful impact as an HR professional.
Rebecca Jackson, Massey University in Palmerston North
HR Student of the Year 2023
2022 was my final year of studying a Bachelor of Business (Majoring in Human Resources & Employment Relations) at Massey University, in Palmerston North. During this time, I was HRNZ’s Student Ambassador for the Manawatu-Whanganui area. I organised an ‘HR Information & Networking’ evening and helped coordinate several other branch events. The HRNZ Ambassadorship was an invaluable experience, allowing me to expand my network and refine my skills. I strive to start a career in HR that will lead me to become a ‘HR Generalist’. I have an interest in improving the employee experience and organisational attractiveness.
Amy Raine, University of Auckland
HR Student of the Year 2022, in association with MAS
As well as being an academically exceptional, HR Student of the Year Award winner Amy Raine (University of Auckland) is already making a meaningful impact, mentoring fellow HR students, and serving as student Representative whilst studying. Whilst studying Amy worked part-time as HR Coordinator for The Strand Veterinarian, where she recently got promoted to Practice Manager.
Rebecca Ralph, Victoria University of Wellington
HR Student of the Year 2021
The new HR Student of the Year Award attracted a lot of entries with 4 deserving finalists named. Rebecca Ralph was named Student of the Year, with the judges commending her proactive approach to networking, in particular her role as Student Ambassador in the Wellington region.