On 6 May, Cavalli College proudly celebrated a truly special milestone as more than 200 attendees gathered in a packed auditorium, filled with excitement and anticipation, to honour the achievements of over 50 graduates from our Foundation Skills and Health and Wellbeing programmes.
With 40 graduates in attendance, the ceremony was rich with pride, reflection, and heartfelt moments. Whānau, friends, lecturers, and supporters came together to celebrate not just academic success, but the determination and resilience it takes to pursue study while balancing life’s many responsibilities.
This year’s graduates are driven by a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Whether supporting recovery journeys, strengthening communities, or delivering compassionate care, each graduate leaves Cavalli College ready to step forward with purpose, empathy, and professionalism.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of special awards, recognising outstanding achievement across our programmes:
New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Level 4) – Mental Health and Addiction Support Strand
• Andy McGirr – Academy Excellence
• Robin Upton – Excellence in Practice
New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Peer Support) (Level 4)
• Richard Matenga – Academic Excellence
• Kelly Armstrong – Excellence in Practice
New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care and Support) (Level 4)
• Balraj Kaur – Academic Excellence
• Cristel Joy Manansala – Excellence in Practice
New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 3) – Healthcare Assistance Strand
• Lydien Keith Sta Maria – Academic Excellence
• Ciara Bresler – Excellence in Practice
New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2)
• Marlena Wright – Academic Excellence
We extend our warmest congratulations to all award recipients for their exceptional commitment and achievement.
Reflecting on the experience, award winner Robin Upton shared, “Such a great experience, and I have loved every minute of it. Thank you for the acknowledgment and accolades in this. Humbled and surprised.”
Above all, we celebrate every graduate. Each journey is unique, and every success represents resilience, growth, and a deep commitment to creating positive change. The future ahead is filled with opportunity, and we are incredibly proud to see our graduates stepping forward as compassionate, skilled professionals ready to make a real difference.
Congratulations to the 2026 Cavalli College graduates! Your journey is just beginning.
