A small advertisement in the Hillcrest High School newsletter changed the direction of Anja Kuys’ life. Now, years later, the former Hillcrest student and New Zealand lacrosse representative has reached another significant milestone, graduating from the Hyundai New Zealand Pinnacle Programme.
Anja was in Year 9 at Hillcrest when she spotted an advertisement encouraging students to give lacrosse a go. She had never heard of the sport, but decided to borrow a stick and try it. What began as curiosity quickly developed into a passion and ultimately opened doors she could never have imagined.
Anja continued to excel in lacrosse throughout her time at Hillcrest, eventually earning selection for the New Zealand U19 squad. After competing at a tournament in the United States during her final year at school, she was noticed by a college scout and offered a scholarship to play lacrosse at the University of Montevallo in Alabama.
What was initially a leap into the unknown became a four-and-a-half-year journey in the United States. Alongside competing at university level, Anja completed both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Exercise and Nutrition Science.
Her achievements have also taken her onto the international stage. Anja was selected for the New Zealand Women’s Lacrosse Team and represented Aotearoa at the 2022 World Cup in the United States.
Throughout her journey, Anja has also become a strong advocate for women in sport. Her experiences competing overseas reinforced the importance of questioning inequity, advocating for opportunities and ensuring female athletes receive the support and recognition they deserve.
Graduating from the Hyundai New Zealand Pinnacle Programme is another impressive milestone. The programme identifies young New Zealanders with potential and supports them to develop the skills, confidence and leadership needed to make a positive impact in their communities and on the world stage.
The Pinnacle journey includes experiences such as Spirit of New Zealand, Outward Bound, mentoring and guidance, before graduates become part of an ongoing network of young leaders from across Aotearoa.
For our Hillcrest community, Anja’s journey is also a wonderful reminder of where saying yes to an opportunity can lead.
From noticing a small advertisement in a school newsletter, to a university scholarship in the United States, postgraduate study, representing New Zealand and now graduating from the Pinnacle Programme, Anja’s story is one of curiosity, courage and making the most of every opportunity.
Congratulations, Anja. We are incredibly proud to have you as part of the Hillcrest alumni whānau – and to think it all started with giving something new a go.
Photos by Stephen Wells.
