For many young people in Aotearoa, the transition from school to university, then to the workforce, can feel daunting – especially without financial support, industry connections, or guidance from someone who has walked the path before. That’s where First Foundation comes in.
First Foundation’s mission is simple: to support academically talented, financially disadvantaged students into higher education through scholarships, mentoring and paid work experience. The charity helps to create pathways for young people who may not otherwise have access to such opportunities – and Datacom has been a committed partner in that journey.
Current scholar Arno Stil reflects that the combination of First Foundation’s skill-building workshops and Datacom’s practical experience has been invaluable, helping him grow personally and professionally as he studies a conjoint Law and Commerce degree. "I’m very thankful to Datacom’s Wellington office for the valuable work experience that they provided me with during my first summer after graduating college,” he says.
Pōneke-based First Foundation scholar Arno Stil discuses how he learned about First Foundation and how Datacom’s work experience helped launch his corporate career and build his confidence.
That early exposure to a corporate environment became a turning point. “I was able to use that experience to secure a role in the public sector. Allowing me to further expand my kete (basket) of knowledge. Without the experience of working within a corporate environment and references gained, I don’t think I would have been able to start my corporate career journey so early on.”
Stil says the most important lesson has been about effort and engagement. “A key takeaway for me has been the idea that consistency and hard work does pay off. The experience with First Foundation has taught me that if you are willing to engage, utilise and make the most of the opportunities that are given to you, you can succeed.”
Behind Datacom’s involvement is a genuine belief in the potential of these young people. Suz Miller, Director of Product, Partnering & Presales, oversees the partnership and says the decision to support First Foundation was driven by a commitment to equity and community impact. “These students are bright, hardworking and full of potential,” she says. “Many are the first in their families to go to university, so having a sponsor like Datacom can make a huge difference.”
Miller notes that mentorship and work experience play a crucial role in helping scholars feel confident and capable in professional environments.
“We’re really proud to be part of the work First Foundation is doing and really value the chance to support these young people with learning and mentoring. We’re also continuing to learn about how we can best support the scholars that come through Datacom. There is always room to grow and the focus for us is now on ensuring leaders are proactive and engaged in creating positive experiences that help prepare the First Foundation scholars for all the opportunities that lie ahead.”
The impact of the First Foundation scholarship, and the support of its partner companies, is best seen through alumni like Timoti Wharewaka, whose scholarship opened the door to a career in technology. As the first in his whānau (family) to attend university, Wharewaka says the support eased both financial strain and emotional pressure, giving him the freedom to focus fully on studying computer science at AUT. “Receiving the scholarship alleviated a lot of pressure in many ways,” he says. “The financial aid gave me clarity in my decision to pursue my education.”
Now working at Datacom as a Salesforce Functional Consultant, Wharewaka embodies the full-circle effect the programme aims to achieve. He not only benefited from mentorship but has become a mentor himself. “One of the standout opportunities I’ve had through First Foundation has been the chance to mentor a young person. Stepping into that space helped me solidify many of the lessons I’ve learned along my own journey, from navigating study and work to building confidence and purpose. Seeing my mentee grow and gain clarity reminded me why giving back is so important. It’s been a full-circle moment that’s shaped both my leadership and my sense of service.”
First Foundation and Datacom have supported young Kiwis in building meaningful careers in technology. Through scholarships, mentoring and tailored work experience, students gain the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive – whether through further study or hands-on learning. Datacom’s Early Careers programme offers pathways from internships to graduate roles, ensuring the right opportunities match each individual’s experience and career goals, empowering the next generation to succeed.
