Sara Esterman (20) is in her third year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree at the University of Canterbury. The former Tauranga Girls’ College student has aspired to become an engineer since childhood.
“What makes Keystone so special is everything beyond the money — the constant encouragement and support, the networking events, site visits, mentorship, and the genuine connections within the community. Keystone has opened so many doors into the industry for me already.”
Some of her early days were spent in remote Fijiian communities, where she saw many locals in huge need of better living standards. Sara has since resolved to use her academic achievements to give back to such communities. “ I’m very interested in humanitarian engineering and post-disaster work in the future,” says Sara – who was deputy head girl, school spirit, at her high school.
● How did you first find out about Keystone?
“Shortly after finding Keystone Trust when I was researching scholarships online in Year 13, Amanda Stanes [Keystone general manager] visited Tauranga Girls’ College, and I got to have a one-on-one conversation with her. I remember feeling this overwhelming excitement that I could apply for such an incredible scholarship. More than anything, I felt seen — Keystone didn’t just care about NCEA results, but also about my story: the challenges I had faced, and the potential they saw in me. That night I went home, told my Mum all about it, and got straight to work on my application.”
● What was the most challenging aspect of the interview process?
“During my interview, I was asked about the biggest thing I had learned about myself. I opened up about personal and family hardships. It felt quite confronting sharing with strangers on an interview panel, but I’m really glad I had the courage to be honest, because everyone listening was incredibly understanding and respectful. Looking back, I think it was important to be truthful about my experiences so they could understand who I really was.”
● What have you learned about Keystone that you didn’t know before being awarded a Scholarship?
I’ve learned that what makes Keystone so special is everything beyond the money — the constant encouragement and support, the networking events, site visits, mentorship, and the genuine connections within the community. Keystone has opened so many doors into the industry for me already. Through sponsors, professionals, and other students, I’ve gained valuable contacts, career opportunities, and insight into the construction and engineering industry that I never expected so early in my degree. The people involved are always there for you and continuously go out of their way to encourage and help wherever they can.”
● What difference has the scholarship made to your studies?
“The scholarship has enabled me to afford to live in Christchurch (something especially noticeable during my first year in halls, where costs were very high). It’s allowed me to really focus on studying civil engineering, a pretty intensive degree, without needing to regularly work part-time. More than anything, it has taken some financial pressure off me and given me a sense of security and support, especially as I’m not in a position where I can rely on my family financially.”
● What personal talent do you have that Keystone may not know about?
“I’m really passionate about baking and love making food for my flatmates to enjoy!”
● Have you worked with, or are you currently working with, a sponsor company?
“I’ve worked with the great company LT McGuinness [a Keystone sponsor of 10 years] for the past two summers. Amanda worked hard to help me find work experience opportunities in Tauranga and connected me with LT McGuinness project manager James Haworth, who was himself a Keystone recipient in 2009. Without the connections and support from Keystone, I would never have had the opportunity to learn so much on site from such an experienced and supportive team so early in my career.”
● What place does AI have in your future plans?
“I’m not exactly sure what role AI will play in my future career yet, but throughout my studies I’ve found it really helpful for supporting my learning — especially for explaining concepts and helping me understand things in different ways. I think AI will continue to grow and so learning how to use it responsibly will be valuable.”
● Final thoughts:
“Keystone has genuinely changed the direction of my future. Beyond the financial support, it has given me confidence, opportunities, industry connections, and a community that believes in me.
It’s helped me realise that my goals are achievable and has opened doors I never imagined possible. I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the amazing Keystone family!”
This story is part of the My Story Could Be Your Story series. You can read more stories here or watch the interviews on our Keystone Trust YouTube channel.
