2026 Waitaha Canterbury International Student award winners announced

Recognising exceptional leadership and contribution

The Awards recognise exceptional international students whose leadership, cultural contributions and service to their communities enrich Waitaha Canterbury socially, culturally and economically. This year's recipients have gone above and beyond to support others, celebrate diversity, and strengthen connections across schools, campuses and communities throughout the region.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger acknowledged the important role international students play in the life of the city.

International education continues to grow

International students continue to make an important contribution to Christchurch's social, cultural and economic wellbeing. International education-related exports reached $4.52 billion in the year ending September 2025, while Canterbury welcomed 9,180 international student enrolments, supporting more than 4,000 jobs across the region.

"The stories and achievements of this year's award winners demonstrate the enormous contribution international students make to our city," says Stefi Porter, Regional Manager International Education at ChristchurchNZ.

The 2026 award winners

Supreme Award - Mayor's International Student of the Year Award

Jenny Korneck (Papanui High School)  

Originally from Germany, Jenny was named the 2026 Mayor's International Student of the Year in recognition of her exceptional leadership, community service and positive impact. Over just 18 months in Christchurch, she has become a trusted mentor for fellow international students, volunteered extensively in the community and established a social enterprise.

Community Engagement Award – University Sector  

Onika Baptiste (Lincoln University)  

A PhD student in Food Forestry, Onika has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to community wellbeing through leadership roles at Lincoln University. Her work has included women's wellbeing initiatives, community service projects and sexual harm prevention education programmes. Onika is helping build a culture of care, empowerment and belonging across Canterbury. 

Community Engagement Award – School Sector

Jane (Sijie) Wu (Rangi Ruru Girls’ School)

Jane has dedicated more than 500 hours to volunteer service, supporting community organisations, youth programmes and STEM education initiatives throughout Christchurch.

Special Mention

Suisei Kusagaya (Ellesmere College)

Despite spending less than a year in New Zealand, Suisei has already made a remarkable contribution to his rural community through volunteering, cultural activities and school involvement

Cultural Ambassador Award – University Sector

Zhexi (Chelcie) Zhang (Lincoln University)

Chelcie has played a key role in strengthening cultural connections both on campus and within the wider Christchurch community. Through her leadership and volunteer work, she has promoted intercultural understanding and inclusion.

Cultural Ambassador Award – School Sector

Shun Takezawa (St Bede's College)

Shun has become a respected cultural leader through his involvement in kapa haka, choir and Polyfest. He embodies the spirit of cultural exchange through his commitment to Māori, Pasifika, and wider school cultural activities.

Leader & Mentor Award – University Sector

Lingyu Zhao (University of Canterbury)

Lingyu has demonstrated exceptional leadership through mentoring, student organisations and volunteer programmes at the University of Canterbury. She has supported international students while creating opportunities for cultural connection and community engagement.

Leader & Mentor Award – School Sector

Jenny Korneck (Papanui High School)

In addition to receiving the Supreme Award, Jenny was recognised for her outstanding leadership and mentoring.

Leader & Mentor Award – EL/PTE/ITP Sector

Amanda Xumeng Bao (UC International College)

Amanda has made a significant contribution to student life at UC International College through peer mentoring and volunteering. Her dedication to helping new students settle into life in Christchurch has helped create a welcoming and inclusive environment for others.

The winners were recognised at the annual International Student Welcome and Awards event at Ngā Hau e Whā National Marae, hosted by Christchurch Educated, ChristchurchNZ and Christchurch City Council.