Graduates were encouraged to dream big as they celebrated their achievements at the Auckland Town Hall this afternoon.

Students from a range of programmes offered by Otago Polytechnic, Future Skills, and Capable NZ crossed the stage in front of family, friends, and staff.

Chair of the Otago Polytechnic Auckland International Campus Board, Dr Neil Barns, told graduates their qualifications were more than just pieces of paper. He said they were something very special and important to be treasured.

Dr Barns said he hoped each graduate would have the confidence to use their learning to create positive change.

“Every individual has the ability to make a change in the world.”

Guest speaker and Member of Parliament Dr Lawrence Xu-Nan reflected on his own journey as a Chinese New Zealander. He shared that growing up, he did not see examples of what he could become, but now, as an MP, he wanted others to know what is possible when they dream big.

“This is a journey that you too can take, and there’s no dream that is too big and there’s no barrier that you can’t overcome,” he said.

Dr Xu-Nan encouraged graduates to seize opportunities and think outside the box, reminding them that their journeys could lead them to places they could not yet imagine. He also spoke about the importance of community and making every voice heard in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“Participate. Establish your voice here in Aotearoa,” he said. “Know that your voices are heard. Your experiences are important.”