When Monica Te Kaponga enrolled at Training For You earlier this year, she was not sure where she was heading and her self-esteem was not in great shape.
"I had achieved level 2 but my credits were in the wrong subjects for business and administration jobs. I wasn't ready for UCOL and I didn't have a plan," the 17-year-old told the Chronicle in May.
The same young woman spoke confidently to more than 160 people at the Celebrate Success Training For You graduation ceremony last week.
Ms Te Kaponga, who has completed her national Certificate in Business level 2, spoke on behalf of students at the ceremony attended by families, friends and Training for You staff members.
Education manager Tim Snape said 50 students were awarded certificates of completion and a number received special awards for outstanding dedication to their studies.
"It is always a pleasure to see the result of all the hard work our students have dedicated to furthering their education.
"We really appreciate the support of family, friends and local community organisations that make each celebration a special event.
"For many families this is the first time they have been to a graduation ceremony or had a family member graduate.
"We aim to instil within our students a lifelong love of learning - seeing how proud students are of their achievements inspires our passion for education," Mr Snape said.
Graduates included students completing national certificates in business administration and computing level 2, healthcare level 2, early childhood level 3, NCEA level 2 and students completing the Women in Learning programme.
Many students are returning to Training For You to continue their study and Mr Snape said there were still spaces available.
"All the staff are extremely passionate about education and committed to helping students realise their potential," Mr Snape said.