We all need someone to believe in us and remind us what we’re capable of.
For young people looking to pursue careers in STEM, this kind of support can be especially valuable. While these fields are at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement, students often face significant barriers to entry.
At Monrad School in Palmerston North, students are fortunate to have Jason Maraku helping them realise their potential.
Jason teaches robotics and engineering, and leads Monrad’s EVolocity programme. But, his teaching goes far beyond technical skills. He’s also helping students grow their confidence, pursue their dreams, and explore pathways they may not have dared to consider.
His story is rich and inspiring – and we were honoured to chat with him about his experiences working in the Middle East, building community in New Zealand, and the lasting legacy he’s creating.
Driven by his passion for creating impact, Jason began teaching at Monrad School in 2021.
He soon learnt about EVolocity. Intrigued by its potential, he pitched the idea to the school administration and board – who enthusiastically approved.
“I found out about EVolocity by chance,” Jason recalled. “It looked exciting, offering a plethora of learning experiences – planning, researching, finding materials, designing. I liked the holistic nature.”
Eager to explore the opportunity, Jason and his students entered several teams into our regional competition – which saw them design and build their own electric vehicles – tackling everything from programming and gearing, to optimising the motor and assembling the chassis.
For Jason, seeing parents and the wider community rally around the students was especially memorable. Many parents offered their garage spaces. Those with backgrounds in welding, engineering, building, go-karting, stock-cars lent their expertise. The school’s caretaker, Mr. Plimmer, also enthusiastically joined in, providing invaluable support and guidance to the teams through every step of the process.
At the regional race day – where students from local schools competed in a series of endurance and speed races. One of Jason’s teams – Tirohanga, took out the ‘showstopper’ award. This is awarded to the best-looking team and vehicle combo, and reflects how well the team decorated their vehicle and tied it into their overall theme.
After a successful first year, the teams were keen to continue their EVolocity journey – entering the regional competition again the following year.
This time around, Jason’s goal was to maintain the community aspect that had made the first year so memorable, while enhancing students’ skills, confidence, and autonomy.
He established a dedicated workspace on school grounds, where students could design, build, and weld. This meant they were no longer reliant on parent garages (although family members still come in on evenings and Friday’s to offer their assistance).
This year will mark Monrad’s third year participating in EVolocity – and students are continuing to excel.
One team – the Ngāti Barbie’s – made up of 7 young wāhine, have been especially enthusiastic.
“Last year, the girls built a wooden cart, and got sponsorship for batteries and a motor with attachments. They won first place overall in the regionals, and placed in the top 3 for each event,” Jason notes.
“They’re all over it – it’s something different and a pathway they may not have seen previously.”
It is this aspect of EVolocity – and teaching in general – that Jason loves the most.
He notes that the impact is both immediate, and long-lasting.
“Being part of a team has been great for their personal development – it builds their confidence and helps them feel like they belong to something, they’re part of something bigger,” Jason explained.
“It’s not just that – it’s the legacy. It opens them up to new opportunities, let’s them see what’s out there, and helps them see different paths.”
If anyone knows that to be true, it’s Jason.
Prior to his teaching role, he lived and worked in the Middle East, where he helped gifted students gain access to Ivy League colleges. It was part of a programme established by the Queen, that identified high-potential students and providing them with opportunities to excel.
His students have achieved remarkable success – with many going on to become astronauts at NASA, brain researchers at Oxford University, lead designers at Samsung.
“When students have support and belief, limits are beyond what can be seen, beyond the horizon,” Jason reflects.
As we conclude our chat, Jason shares his belief that EVolocity is the number one STEM-based programme in New Zealand schools – a high compliment from someone of his caliber.
“It’s paving future pathways and kids can dream because of it. These kids can go on. It sounds like a pipe dream, but it’s not.”
Jason’s work serves as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we take the time to encourage young minds and nurture their potential. His story highlights the profound impact that a little bit of belief, encouragement, and guidance can have on future generations, and is the perfect example of the ripple effect in action.
