At only 16, Stella Crossan has demonstrated remarkable talent in sprint kayaking. A Year 12 student, she began her kayaking journey as part of Surf Life Saving in 2022, with the Arawa Canoe Club. After discovering a new passion, Stella pursued excellence in the K1. In 2024, Stella represented NZ at the Asia Pacific Sprint Cup, securing her first international gold medal. Selected for the ICF U23 and Jnr World Champs, Stella placed 2nd in the Open Women’s K4 200m at Nationals. This grant will help cover her travel expenses to Bulgaria for the ICF U23 and Jnr World Champs 2024 and support her participation in domestic competitions. Stella aspires to medal in the U23 age group in the coming years and pursue a degree in sport coaching or physical education while also continuing her Te Reo Māori language journey.