Lily is a Master of International Development and Planning student and a Tētēkura, student sustainability leader, with Toitū te Taiao, Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka – University of Otago’s Sustainability Office. As Operations Lead for Te Oraka, Lily supports student-led circular economy initiatives that connect sustainability with affordability, wellbeing and community.

Through her leadership, Te Oraka has become a high-impact student sustainability space, redistributing clothing, bikes and e-rescue items while creating accessible events, paid student opportunities and strong digital engagement. Guided by care for Papatūānuku, student voice and community-centred sustainability, Lily’s work demonstrates how circular economy practice can become part of everyday student culture.