Photo caption: Maree Lucas, left, along with Rachel Elsy and Warren Poh have been awarded the 2025 Gough MBA Leaders Scholarship.
Rachel Elsy, Maree Lucas and Warren Poh have been named as 2025 recipients of the Gough MBA Leaders Scholarship, an award supported by Ben and Penny Gough, Trustees of the Gough Family Foundation.
The award aims to strengthen Aotearoa New Zealand’s leadership capability through the University of Canterbury (UC) Master of Business Administration programme. It is awarded to individuals who combine professional excellence with a deep commitment to positive social impact, business innovation and the community.
The 2025 scholars will receive a majority contribution towards their master’s study at UC Business School, mentoring from senior business and community leaders, and experiential leadership development through Outward Bound.
This year the scholarship also includes a new element; a dedicated international experience for each recipient where they receive $7,500 towards an overseas study paper or study tour coordinated by the UC Business School. This opportunity is designed to broaden horizons, foster cross-cultural understanding, and give scholars a global perspective.
Ben Gough, Trustee of the Gough Family Foundation, says the scholarship was established in partnership with UC to invest in leaders whose impact reaches far beyond their own organisations.
“Our aim is to grow authentic, community-minded leaders who take the best of Canterbury to the world — and bring the best of the world back to Aotearoa New Zealand through education and life experience. These are the foundations of a thriving community.”
Including this year’s awardees, a total of 15 scholars and alumni have so far benefitted from the Gough MBA Leaders Scholarship.
Professor Ekant Veer, Director of the UC MBA Programme, says this year’s scholars reflect the spirit of leadership the Gough Family Foundation aims to inspire.
“Rachel, Maree and Warren embody the values of authentic, reflective, and service-oriented leadership. Each is already making an impact in their field, and a Master of Business Administration at UC will further equip them to drive change in their communities and industries.”
The 2025 Gough MBA Leaders Scholars and their mentors:
Rachel Elsy – Chief Executive, English Language Partners NZ
Elsy heads an organisation supporting more than 8,000 former refugees and migrants to learn English and thrive in their communities.
She will be mentored by Aneta Bird, an internationally experienced executive with a passion for values-driven business and making a positive impact on both people and the planet.
Maree Lucas – Principal, Omihi School
Lucas is President of the North Canterbury Principals’ Association and in 2026 will become a key member of the New Zealand Principals’ Federation. She is also an accomplished entrepreneur having started her own event management business.
Lucas will be mentored by Dr Thérèse Arseneau, an experienced director and political scientist who has chaired and served on boards across law, education, tourism, retail, and the arts.
Warren Poh – National Growth Lead, Rubix Project Management
With over 20 years’ experience in the construction sector, Poh is a Chartered Engineer and Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors.
He will be mentored by Barry Bragg, one of New Zealand’s top professional directors.
