Jasmax Architecture Scholarship awarded for 2023
Congratulations to Demetrius (Deme) Shortland, the 2023 recipient of Jasmax and the University of Auckland’s Architecture Scholarship for Māori and Pacific students.
Now in its fourth year, the annual scholarship programme provides students with $5,000 per annum for up to five years to complete a Bachelor of Architectural Studies and Master of Architecture at the University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau.
The scholarship reflects Jasmax’s longstanding commitment to removing financial barriers to accessing tertiary education and increasing the number of Māori and Pacific architectural graduates entering the workforce. Recipients of the scholarship also benefit from internship opportunities during their studies and the support of Jasmax’s Waka Māia rōpū – the practice’s in-house incubation unit which nurtures the design skills of future Māori architects and leaders of tomorrow.
Demi says, “As a young Māori Pacific boy who grew up in South Auckland, I would have never imagined being awarded this scholarship. This scholarship will support with my living costs and tuition fees and help me to create connections within the architecture profession, especially with those at Jasmax, including Elisapeta Heta who is an inspiration as a Māori design leader.”
Jessica Varney, the 2021 scholarship recipient, says, “As I approach the end of my fourth year, I reflect on and appreciate the enormous help the Jasmax scholarship has been during my architecture studies. Not only has it contributed towards my university fees, but it has also provided me with the opportunity to connect with and build a strong relationship with Jasmax, which has led to internship and work experience opportunities, and the chance to receive guidance and mentoring throughout my degree. I’m incredibly honoured to have received this scholarship and grateful for the growth it has enabled.”
Dr Lee Beattie, Head of Te Pare School of Architecture and Planning at the University of Auckland, says, “The School really values its strong and ongoing relationship with Jasmax and the practice’s continued support of the School. The success of its Māori and Pacific student scholarship highlights this relationship and reinforces the positive contribution Jasmax is playing in developing a new form of New Zealand/Aotearoa based urbanism reflecting our position in the Pacific, while acknowledging our contribution at home and toward our place in the wider global community.”