A Papanui High School student from Germany has been named the 2026 Mayor’s International Student of the Year for her leadership, community service and support of other young people.

Jenny Korneck received the Supreme Award at the Waitaha Canterbury International Student Awards, which recognise students whose leadership, cultural contributions and community service have strengthened schools, campuses and communities across the region.

Despite having lived in Christchurch for only 18 months, Korneck has become a trusted mentor for other international students, volunteered extensively and established a social enterprise.

She was also presented with the Leader and Mentor Award for the school sector, making her one of the event’s major winners.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger told those attending the ceremony that international students were an important part of the city.

“Every one of you brings something unique to our city. You bring new ideas, different perspectives, languages, cultures and experiences,” Mauger said.

“You enrich our classrooms, strengthen our communities, and help make Christchurch a more vibrant and connected place.

“As international students, you are much more than visitors. You are valued members of our community.”

Lincoln University PhD student Onika Baptiste received the Community Engagement Award for the university sector.

Baptiste, who is studying food forestry, was recognised for her leadership in women’s wellbeing initiatives, community service projects and sexual harm prevention education programmes. Her work was praised for helping create a culture of care, empowerment and belonging.

Rangi Ruru Girls’ School student Jane Sijie Wu received the school sector Community Engagement Award after contributing more than 500 hours of volunteer service to community organisations, youth programmes and STEM education initiatives.

Ellesmere College student Suisei Kusagaya received a special mention after making a significant contribution to his rural community through volunteering, cultural activities and school involvement during his first year in New Zealand.

The Cultural Ambassador Award for the university sector went to Lincoln University student Zhexi “Chelcie” Zhang, who has helped strengthen cultural connections on campus and within the wider Christchurch community.

St Bede’s College student Shun Takezawa received the school sector Cultural Ambassador Award for his involvement in kapa haka, choir and Polyfest, as well as his commitment to Māori, Pasifika and other cultural activities.

University of Canterbury student Lingyu Zhao received the university sector Leader and Mentor Award for her work with student organisations, mentoring and volunteer programmes.

Amanda Xumeng Bao, from UC International College, received the Leader and Mentor Award for the English language, private training establishment and institute of technology and polytechnic sector.

Bao was recognised for helping new students settle into life in Christchurch through peer mentoring and volunteering.

ChristchurchNZ Regional Manager International Education Stefi Porter said the winners demonstrated the considerable contribution international students made to the city.

“Through leadership, service and cultural exchange, they help make Christchurch a more vibrant, welcoming and connected place,” Porter said.

International education related exports reached $4.52 billion in the year ending September 2025, while Canterbury recorded 9,180 international student enrolments. The sector supported more than 4,000 jobs across the region.

The winners were recognised at the annual International Student Welcome and Awards event at Ngā Hau e Whā National Marae, hosted by Christchurch Educated, ChristchurchNZ and Christchurch City Council.