One of Fox's mentees is Keenan Membery, who aims to become the world's top disabled golfer and an advocate for disability golf in New Zealand. Membery stated: "Being mentored by one of my idols and selected for a Dream Seat will hopefully be the start of a journey that will not only make a huge difference in my life but anybody with a disability. I know there are many others like me out there that are struggling with a disability and even if I can inspire one person and change their life then I will be happy."
Dame Valerie Adams noted the difficulty in choosing among so many athletes aiming for events like the Commonwealth Games and Olympics. She said: "There were so many athletes chasing big dreams, like the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics. I know what it feels like to have a goal that seems bigger than you – but with the right support, anything is possible. That's why I'm so passionate about mentoring."
Her mentee Kendra Scally-Tui is focused on winning both sprint events at next year's World Under-20 Athletics Championships in Los Angeles. Scally-Tui commented: "Being chosen for a Dream Seat means more than I can put into words. Affording travel to competitions in New Zealand and overseas has always been a challenge. This support means I can compete in Los Angeles at the U20 World Athletics Championships – a dream come true. Representing my country on the world stage and competing against the best, while also being mentored by Dame Valerie Adams, makes it even more special."
Greg Foran, Chief Executive Officer of Air New Zealand, highlighted the high standard set by applicants: "We already know that New Zealand has no shortage of incredible talent, and this has absolutely been confirmed by the sheer magnitude of amazing applications that have come through Dream Seats. From aspiring Olympians to future diplomats, our people are doing remarkable things, and we're delighted to play a small part in helping them get to where they need to be."
Foran added that more winners would be announced soon: "As New Zealand's national carrier, it's our privilege and responsibility to back the people of Aotearoa. Living at the bottom of the world has never stopped Kiwi from dreaming big, and now, more than ever, it's our role to help those dreams take flight.
Whether it's track and field in Los Angeles, a stage in Sydney, or a summit in Christchurch, we're proud to stand behind the people who are going places. Because when New Zealanders take flight, the pride of the nation goes with them."
Among those featured as recipients:
- Georgia Fyfe aims for a diplomatic career representing New Zealand at international forums such as her upcoming internship at United Nations headquarters.
- Kate Ricketts founded ISpy Nits—a product designed for easier detection of head lice eggs—and plans meetings in Florida through her Dream Seat award.
- James Steyn seeks pole vaulting success at major competitions including breaking national records.
- Cleo Fitzgerald won junior music awards domestically; her Dream Seat supports participation at an international festival.
Applications remain open via www.dreamseats.co.nz for further hopefuls looking for assistance toward their ambitions.
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