Howick College recently honoured former student Nick Laing as a recipient of its prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award.
Laing, who attended the school from 1994 to 1998, has made an impressive mark in leadership roles within the health and not-for-profit sectors, now serving as chief executive of Canteen Aotearoa.
He returned to Howick College for the award ceremony expressing his surprise and gratitude. “I’m incredibly honoured to accept this award,” Laing said during his heartfelt acceptance speech.
“It was completely unexpected and I’m deeply grateful to be recognised by the Howick College community.”
While a student, Laing was heavily involved in volunteer work, serving as a student tutor and assisting with the school’s Learner Support Department.
He also played a key role in the Circle of Friends Programme, helping junior students develop social skills and self-confidence.
This experience proved pivotal, steering him away from his initial ambition to become a vet and toward a career in social work.
“In my seventh form year, I joined a programme that made me rethink my career path,” Laing said.
“Watching students grow through the Circle of Friends Programme brought the realisation that my future lay in helping others be the best they could be.”
Laing went on to earn a Bachelor of Social Work from Massey University and built a distinguished career, including senior roles at Auckland District Health Board and serving as general manager of operations at the New Zealand AIDS Foundation (now the Burnett Foundation).
In 2019, he was appointed CEO of Canteen Aotearoa, leading a team dedicated to providing evidence-based psychosocial support services for rangatahi (young people) aged 12-25 impacted by cancer.
“I never planned to be a CEO or a leader,” Laing said. “I just wanted to work with people and support them to reach their potential.
“But sometimes, opportunities pop up, and you have to be courageous, take the leap, and give it a go.”
Throughout his career, Laing has been guided by deeply held values, drawing parallels to the school’s motto during his time as a student – Serve with Goodwill.
“When I reflect on my career, I see that this motto has underpinned much of what I do – serving others with goodwill.”
At the close of his speech, Laing thanked Howick College for the honour and expressed deep appreciation for his family’s unwavering support.
He acknowledged his parents, husband, sister, and his two nephews – students at the school, who were present at the ceremony.
“Thank you again for this incredible honour. I’m truly humbled.”
Howick College’s Distinguished Alumni Award celebrates individuals who excel professionally and give back to society meaningfully.
Laing’s career and contributions have significantly impacted the community, and the award recognises his dedication to service, Howick College says.
Reflecting on his journey from a young aspiring vet in Beachlands to a recognised leader in the health and not-for-profit sectors, Laing has gratitude for the values instilled in him during his time at Howick College.
He encouraged present students to embrace opportunities, know who they are in the world and remain committed to making a positive difference in their communities.
His story serves as a testament to the power of service and leadership, inspiring the next generation to uplift those around them, Howick College says.
