Alumni Spotlight: Thomas Lucock

A proud alumni of our 2025 Whakaraupō Moana and Advanced Leadership programmes, Thomas is driven by a desire to connect politics, intercultural communication, and environmental leadership. In 2026, he plans to pursue a conjoint Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts majoring in Asian studies and minoring in musical composition at Victoria University of Wellington.

In January, Thomas was one of just 20 students nationwide selected for UN Youth NZ’s Global Development Tour — a month-long journey through the US and Europe exploring diplomacy, sustainability, and international relations. From the UN HQ in New York to the OECD in Paris, they met with global institutions shaping our world. A standout moment? Winning an individual award at Columbia’s Model UN for debating, becoming the first-ever Kiwi to do so!

With whakapapa connecting him to Chinese and Pākehā heritage, Thomas is interested in the roles language, identity, and culture have in shaping a future where Māori and Tauiwi walk forward together. He believes in a future for Aotearoa built on mutual understanding, equity, and the unapologetic empowerment of rangatahi voices.

Thomas is actively involved with:

Gen-Z Aotearoa – A rangatahi-led kaupapa dedicated to uplifting youth voice. Thomas contributes as a general team member, assisting with social media content and representing the kaupapa at local and national events.

Environment Canterbury Youth Rōpū – This year, Thomas joined the rōpū to elevate Canterbury rangatahi voice at the regional level. He has participated in noho, wānanga, and outreach events aimed at creating a more connected and represented youth community.

Thomas is one of many incredible young people shaping a better future.