Ross Mathieson was AFS NZ’s first High School AFS Scholar in 1950. His  scholarship took him to a boarding school in New Hampshire called Phillips Exeter Academy. From this experience Ross gained a first class education and had qualified to go to Yale after finishing at this high school but was unable to do so due to lack of finance. He returned to NZ and became a very successful business man.
Ross was passionate about AFS NZ engaging with Alumni and left a generous bequest to AFS NZ to pursue this goal. Members of AFS now call Alumni, AFS Whānau. This was warmly received from Ross’ family as it in captures the broader aspect of AFS. AFS Whānau are not only returnees, they are sending families, hosting families, volunteers and members. This scholarship is aimed at assisting AFS Whānau to send their children / grandchildren  on AFS and acknowledges their engagement with us as volunteers who have given their time generously to us over the years.
Criteria: The aim of this scholarship is to provide support to students whose families have had back ground with AFS and are in need of economic assistance.
Evidence Required:
  • Students showing initiative, entrepreneurship and a good attitude at school.
  • Demonstrate a background of volunteering or participation with AFS (host family, sending family, volunteering).