Head Students' Welcome
Kia Ora, Salam, Talofa lava!
Our names are Semhar Girmay and Leilani Pedro, and we are the Head Prefects here at Te Kura Kohine o Te Rāwhiti o Te Upoko o Te Ika, Wellington East Girls’ College.
Welcome to Rawhiti! The school on the Hill! As proud Head Prefects of our school, we are delighted to extend a warm welcome to all students, parents, and visitors to our home on the hill. Here at Rawhiti, we cherish the rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives that make up our vibrant community.
"He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata."
What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people.
This whakatauki encapsulates the essence of belonging at East for us. Our Kura isn't merely an educational facility; it's a tightly-knit community driven by its members. We are all united as we are the people. Together, our whānau, kaiako, tuakana, and teina cultivate an atmosphere that encourages curiosity. The honor of being an East student comes with a responsibility – a responsibility to inspire, lead, and uphold our school values, of whanaungatanga, rangatiratanga, and aroha. Rawhiti is about fostering an environment where the blue and gold shine not just in our uniforms but in our actions, achievements, and the bonds we forge with one another.
Now, a little bit about us:
Leilani is born in the Hutt Valley and raised in the beautiful Porirua. She is tall and mighty but has the heart of a teddy bear. Her presence and smile are infectious, and saying she is a talented singer is an understatement. She is the youngest child in a family full of brothers, yet I do not doubt that she’s the boss. Lani has the purest heart, and I’m beyond honoured to be working alongside her this year.
Semhar is born and raised in Newtown. She has 3 sisters, two older and one younger and also a younger brother. I have to give him props for dealing with 4 sisters haha. She has the best smile and beautiful brown eyes. Sem's hair is always on point! I admire Sem's energy and positive vibes that she brings everywhere. She is what I’d say is the definition of East Mana! I’m so blessed and grateful to have her as my Co-Head Prefect and I can’t wait for this year.
Our school motto is "take the light and pass it on." As Head Prefects, it is our privilege to uphold the spirit of this motto and to encourage each and every one of you to shine brightly without hesitation. In a world that sometimes encourages us to dim our light to fit in, we stand firm in our belief that your brilliance is not something to be hidden. Here at East, we encourage you to immerse yourself in these incredible opportunities that will not only illuminate your own path but also contribute to making our collective light shine even brighter.
As 2024 Head Prefects we trust that you will lead with the same passion as us and those who came before us. We can't wait to see the impact you will all make, and the contributions you will bring to this kura this year and beyond!"
Lots of Love
Semhar and Leilani xx