After leaving school at 16 and becoming a mother at a young age, Blaze Stafford-Nukunuku never imagined she would one day be leading fitness and hauora classes for her community.

Now working at the YMCA Gisborne, Blaze (Ngāti Porou and Tainui) supports local wellbeing initiatives after completing the New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) at EIT in 2025.

Returning to study through EIT marked a turning point for Blaze, who had spent several years as a stay-at-home mum before re-entering education in her early twenties.

She first completed the New Zealand Certificate in Sport, Recreation and Exercise (Multi-sector) (Level 3) in 2024, before progressing to Level 4.

“The learning was really inspiring,” Blaze said. “They made it feel achievable, and it opened my eyes to how many different pathways there are from personal training and instructing to coaching and sports coordination.”

Blaze said discovering study opportunities through strong community connections helped her take the first step back into education.

“When I learned about the YMCA and the courses at EIT, it really set me off on my journey.”

With two young children aged eight and five, flexibility and support were essential.

“The way the courses were run made it possible for me to study and still be there for my kids. It also inspired me to show them what I could achieve.”

She also credits EIT’s student support services for helping her succeed throughout her study.

“Whenever I felt nervous or stuck, there was always someone there to help. Having access to resources like laptops, internet and study spaces made a huge difference.”

That support has since translated into a career she finds deeply fulfilling.

“Working in fitness is my happy place. Any time I go into work, it just brightens my day. Seeing people grow in confidence and wellbeing is really rewarding.”

Through her role at the YMCA, Blaze delivers group fitness and hauora-based programmes, including free community classes and wellbeing initiatives delivered in partnership with local organisations.

Now confident in her abilities and future direction, Blaze encourages others who may have left school early or feel unsure about returning to education to consider study later in life.

“It doesn’t matter where you’re coming from. Anyone can do it.”

Todd Rogers, Head of School Trades and Technology, congratulated Blaze.

“This programme of study helps prepare graduates to enter the Health, Sport and Fitness industry. It’s great to see our graduates succeeding in this field across our region.”

“I am really impressed with Blaze and what she has achieved over the last 12 months. She is a role model for future students. Outstanding effort.”