We’re delighted to announce Fatema Rampurawala as the recipient of the 2025 Yvonne A. M. Smith Scholarship.

Having immigrated to New Zealand from India at the age of three, Fatema has developed a deep connection to Aotearoa and its potential on the world stage. School sparked her curiosity, university broadened her horizons, and through internships at Rocket Lab, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, and Jarden, she witnessed firsthand the global impact of New Zealand businesses. A standout moment was designing a camera bracket that is now orbiting the moon—an experience that cemented her belief in New Zealand’s capacity for world-class innovation.

Fatema is passionate about helping build a stronger business ecosystem here—one with better access to venture capital, stronger global connections, and more opportunities for emerging leaders. A long-time advocate for women in leadership, she has championed women in STEM through the Women in Engineering network and continues to support female leadership in business.

The Yvonne A. M. Smith Scholarship will help Fatema continue this work, driving initiatives that grow New Zealand’s business sector and empower women to lead within it.

Armed with a Bachelor of Engineering (First Class Honours) and a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance, as well as multiple scholarships and academic awards, Fatema is about to embark on her next chapter. She has accepted an offer to study for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at London Business School, beginning in August, and plans to return home ready to help drive positive change.