Four students receive TLC scholarships

26 September 2025

Four outstanding students living locally on The Lines Company network have received TLC’s Inspiring Local Minds Scholarships.

Te Kūiti College student, Mikhail Hasanbasoglu, is a successful recipient of a three-year scholarship from The Lines Company (TLC). He is heading to the University of Waikato to study a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours.

Justin Schur, who lives in Motuoapa and attends Tauhara College, also received a three-year TLC scholarship and will be heading to the University of Auckland to study a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours.

Ruapehu College student Liam Burnard will be studying a Bachelor in Surveying at the University of Otago. Liam has been awarded funding for two years.

Tongariro High School student Sharlize Hopa, from Tūrangi is also heading to the University of Waikato to study a Diploma in Te Tohu Paetahi. Sharlize will receive support for one year.

“The students all share fantastic academic achievements and leadership ability throughout their school careers,” said TLC chief executive Mike Fox. “But it is their collective passion for community, a sustainable future and driving positive change in the future that made them standouts during the interview process.”

TLC launched the Inspiring Local Minds Scholarship in 2018 and has already supported 35 local rangitahi with tertiary study.  Amounts vary, but applicants can receive up to $2,000 a year for three years for a wide range of study applicable to TLC jobs. All applicants must live on the TLC network.

This year, 19 young people applied with applications assessed by Mike Fox, TLC’s customer and community engagement manager Anne Terry and Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust (WESCT) trustee, Yvette Ronaldson.

Yvette said all applicants were impressive, not only in what they had achieved to date, but what they had planned for their futures.

““The applicants were nothing short of inspiring — a powerful reminder that the future of our region is in great hands. Across TLC’s network area, we’re seeing exceptional talent in our young people, and that’s something we can all be proud of. The TLC scholarships are a fantastic way to support our rangatahi, helping set them up for success in their chosen careers and ensuring we continue to grow strong, local leadership.”