Four outstanding Pasifika legal scholars have received scholarships for post-graduate studies in the United States.
The scholarships have been awarded by the Borrin Foundation, a philanthropic organisation which supports legal research, education, and scholarship.
The recipients are:
- Wiliame Gucake, of Samoan and Fijian descent, is currently lead legal advisor for the Waitangi Tribunal. He receives $50,000 to pursue an LLM at Harvard Law School.
- Toilolo Leilani Taula, also of Samoan descent, is currently a Crown Prosecutor at Kayes Fletcher Walker. She receives $50,000 to pursue an LLM in the USA.
- Pita Roycroft (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Hāmoa –Moata’a) is currently a Junior Barrister at Shortland Chambers. He receives $80,000 to pursue an LLM in the USA.
- Mele Tupou-Vaitohi, currently a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Law at Victoria University of Wellington, will receive $10,000 for travel to Penn State Dickinson Law school for further study.
Borrin Foundation Chief Philanthropic Officer Pulotu Tupe Solomon-Tanoa’i says, “We are delighted to support a diverse range of outstanding scholars through our individual funding programme, including four incredibly talented Pasifika legal scholars in this round.
“We look forward to supporting them on their journey as they pursue opportunities to study abroad and bring their insights back to serve their communities, and benefit Aotearoa through the law.”
The foundation was established through a $38 million bequest by the late Judge Ian Borrin. Every year there are two contestable rounds of funding for fellowships, scholarships and awards to support legal professionals in Aotearoa New Zealand.
