2022 NCEA Dux and Deputy Head Prefect

Queen Margaret College has a long-standing tradition of developing and nurturing resilient women, passionate learners, and future leaders. As the College’s motto says, "Luce Veritatis" live by the light of your truth, which is exactly what Pippa Nicol, the 2022 NCEA Dux, did throughout her six-year journey at QMC.

Pippa is a remarkable young woman whose accomplishments and successes demonstrate her passion for learning, her dedication to her studies and her commitment to her community. Pippa is a member of the graduating class of 2022 and currently studying at the University of Otago. She joined QMC in 2016, as a Year 7 student, and has been a shining example of the school's core values ever since.

Pippa is a sporty and outgoing young woman who is never afraid to ask questions, meet new people or voice her opinion. Her friends describe her as caring, helpful and someone they can always turn to for help, whether it be with school work, assignments or advice. Pippa attributes her resilience and high work ethic to the core values that her parents instilled in her, as well as her adaptability and ability to make new friends, after having moved around a lot in her childhood.

Throughout her time at QMC, Pippa took every opportunity to seize the day and try new things. She was involved in a multitude of sports, including umpiring, coaching, and playing both competitively and socially. She spent some time involved in the arts, before finding her passion for public speaking, where she went on to win the QMC Speech Competition five years in a row, from 2018 – 2022. In addition to this, she represented QMC at leadership conferences and even spoke at the NZ Business Hall of Fame Awards.

Becoming the NCEA Dux was something Pippa never thought was her destiny, but her success in both sports and academics inspired her to aspire for more. In her own words, "I didn't have to feel confined by the stereotypes surrounding sporty people; I could succeed in both areas of my life without compromising one for the other." Her success as the NCEA Dux is a testament to her hard work, dedication and commitment to her studies.

However, it is not just Pippa's accomplishments that make her an inspiration and a model of success for future generations. It is her ability to balance her academic and extra-curricular activities while maintaining her mental and emotional wellbeing. In a world where young people are constantly under pressure to succeed, Pippa's approach to life is refreshing and inspiring. She reminds us that success is not just about grades, awards and achievements, but also about finding balance, pursuing our passions and staying true to ourselves.

Pippa's journey at QMC is a testament to the college's commitment to developing resilient women, passionate learners and future leaders. Her success is an inspiration to all young women who aspire to achieve their goals and make a positive difference in the world. As Pippa moves on to the next chapter of her life, we have no doubt that she will continue to make a positive impact on her community and the world around her.