Jaeda Gear grew up admiring nurses but never believed she could become one herself.
As a child, Jaeda spent some time in paediatric care and says that from a young age, she saw nurses as kind, caring people who made a difference in people’s lives.
“Although I admired the profession, for a long time I never believed it was something I could achieve myself and I always doubted my own abilities,” she says.
Originally from Matapihi in Tauranga, Jaeda is now in her second year of nursing at the University of Waikato and is (rightfully) proud of how far she’s come. Her confidence has been further boosted by receiving a 2026 Braemar Charitable Trust Bachelor of Nursing Scholarship, worth $10,000.
Braemar Charitable Trust works to advance healthcare equity and access and improve health outcomes in the community. It is the 100% owner of Braemar Hospital in Hamilton, one of New Zealand’s largest private hospitals.
The Trust funds a range of charitable activities aimed at improving community health outcomes, including free surgeries, health sector capability building, medical research and scholarships, all underpinned by an equity and access lens. This includes three $10,000 scholarships at the University of Waikato, two in the Bachelor of Nursing programme, and one in Bachelor of Health.
A financial and professional hand up
Jaeda already knew about Braemar Hospital as her nephew had received care there, and she had often heard people speak positively about Braemar, which led to her learning more about the Trust and the opportunities it offered.
“Winning this scholarship is incredibly helpful, both financially and professionally. The financial support eases the pressure of study costs, which means I can focus fully on learning and performing at my best.”
She says the paid placement at Braemar Hospital, offered as part of the scholarship, will be an important experience for her.
“I’m really looking forward to learning from experienced nurses and healthcare staff and meeting new people along the way. Being able to learn from others and be part of a supportive clinical environment is going to be a valuable part of my growth as a student nurse.”
While Jaeda feels drawn to paediatrics, she’s also interested in community, neonatal and theatre nursing, and is keen to explore the different avenues once she’s finished her studies.
“My main priority is to learn as much as a I can and grow into a competent, well-rounded nurse who can provide safe and compassionate care in any setting.
“I’m very grateful to be selected for this scholarship and for the support it will provide on my nursing journey.”
Community connection
Braemar Charitable Trust manager Paula Baker says Jaeda is a very worthy recipient of the Trust’s nursing scholarship.
“Jaeda’s application showed a deep connection to her culture, language and community, skills that will undoubtedly serve her will in the years to come. She also showed a clear insight into the complexities of some of the health issues facing our community; I’m looking forward to seeing the impact she will have in her career in the future.”