Apii Te Uki Ou celebrated and commended their new school leaders for this year who represent the future leaders of the country, in a special school assembly yesterday morning.

An impressive number of students had courageously submitted their applications for leadership positions.

Kim Noovao, Apii Te Uki Ou principal said “I commend each child who took this bold step, demonstrating remarkable bravery.

“As our core values continue to illuminate our path, it is evident that an increasing number of students embody these principles.

“The competition was fierce, with over 31 students vying for just 16 available spots – a testament to the high standards set this year,” said Noovao.

She conveyed her “heartfelt gratitude” to all the students who had applied but were not selected.

Congratulating the new Student Leaders, Noovao said “together, let us strive to elevate our school and community.

“May we chart new paths and collaborate to discover innovative ways to foster improvement.

“Having thoroughly reviewed the applications and observed these students in action, both in the playground and the classroom, I am once again impressed by the calibre of this year's leaders.”

She said they are genuine advocates for Apii Te Uki Ou, embodying the values that define the Cook Islands.

Noovao specially mentioned Head Boy, Teuruaa Goldsworthy, and Head Girl, Eiva Herman-Fua on their interviews which revealed “thoughtful insights into what constitutes good leadership and how you envision serving our school.”

Twelve-year-old Herman-Fua is excited to take on her new role and responsibilities.

“I feel that everyone can accomplish a lot of things and set up high goals for themselves,” she said.

Goldsworthy said “it’s amazing and I just want to use this opportunity to help other children who would one day want to become a Head Boy too.

“I enjoy helping children and showing them good behaviour as one day I wish to become a good leader.

“We are fortunate as young children to be given this opportunity to train and prepare as future leaders,” said Goldsworthy.

All the student leaders impressively introduced themselves in Māori - `Ākaāravei`anga, and recited their pledge together in both Māori and English.

Apii Te Uki Ou 2024 Ambassadors and their classrooms are: Teuruaa Goldsworthy - Kuramo’o, Eiva Herman-Fua Kakaia, Tia Hunter – Kura, Tevai Mitchell – Kura, Nina Chambers – Kuriri, Vaeiheana Roi – Kuriri, Luca Rossouw – Kakerori, Mia Fenwick – Kakerori, Abigail Fe’ao – Kotuku, Tangitoru Heather - Ka’oko, Hinaarii Taulu-Amo - Ka’oko and Tungane Cummings - Kota’a.

Apii Te Uki Ou 2024 Prefects are: Vaihere Mitchell-  Kopeka, Taylah Noovao – Kukupa, Sinamoana McBride – Tavake, Ngakaara Wong – Kotuku; Head Girl - Eiva Herman-Fua and Head Boy - Teuruaa Goldsworthy.