We are proud to share that Susana Tomaz, Westlake’s Futures Education and AI Lead, is a finalist for the Rising AI Star Award at the Aotearoa AI Awards 2025.
This recognition highlights Susana’s leadership in whole-school AI integration here at WGHS, her co-leadership of the AI forum education working group, the Day of AI Aotearoa pilot, and her international collaborations. Susana’s work focuses on bridging the AI divide, building teacher and student capability, and ensuring equitable access to AI literacy across Aotearoa. Being named a finalist is a personal achievement for Susana and a recognition of the transformative potential of AI in education when schools, communities, and global partners work together. The winners will be announced on 17 September.
“I’m very honoured to be a finalist for the Rising AI Star Award at the Aotearoa AI Awards 2025. This recognition reflects the collective efforts happening in schools and across the education sector to ensure that AI is integrated responsibly, inclusively, and with a strong focus on preparing our students for the future. I am grateful to the AI Forum NZ, my colleagues, students, and collaborators for their ongoing support.” – Susana Tomaz.
For more information about the awards, see here.