Applications are open for the 2026 Penguin Random House Māori and Pacific Publishing Scholarship.

This scholarship was created in 2020, in collaboration with Whitireia and Weltec, with the aim of reducing barriers to equitable representation and encouraging diversity and inclusivity in publishing in Aotearoa.

The scholarship offers funding for one Māori or Pacific student to study the Graduate Diploma in Publishing (Applied) with Whitireia. It also includes travel to the Penguin Random House head office in Auckland twice a year for hands-on experience at the biggest publishing house in Aotearoa.

Previous scholarship winners have gone on to work in various roles in the publishing industry. The 2023 scholarship recipient, Trinity Thompson-Browne (Ngāti Kahungunu, Muaūpoko), says

‘In 2023, I was able to pursue further study, completing the Whitireia Graduate Diploma in Publishing. I could not have done this without the support of the Penguin Random House Māori and Pacific Publishing Scholarship. It is the reason I could study, and the work placements Penguin Random House offers mean I can walk into the industry confident and ready to create systemic change for my communities. The Whitireia Graduate Diploma in Publishing was an incredibly empowering course both personally and professionally. I recommend it wholeheartedly. The Penguin Random House Māori and Pacific Scholarship is a significant investment in Māori and Pacific communities; I look forward to seeing the long-term benefits from this initiative, and I encourage prospective Māori and Pacific students to apply.’

The deadline for applications is 31st January 2026 (and expressions of interest in the course itself should be made here by early December 2025). Eligibility criteria and details on how to apply can be found here:

Apply now for the Penguin Random House Māori and Pacific Publishing Scholarship