Warren-Tui Togiatama
3rd-year student, Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Management
The AUT sport, exercise and health team is world-class, says Warren-Tui Togiatama who is now in the final year of his Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Management.
“The staff don't just teach from a textbook; they bring real-world industry experience into the classroom. By studying at AUT I’ve seen how passionate the lecturers and staff are about their respective industries, and they’re always willing to go the extra mile to ensure you have the networking opportunities and practical skills needed for your career.”
There are a few staff members who have particularly impressed him.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a strong support system at AUT. Yidan Li was my scholarship referee, but her support has gone far beyond that; she checks in on me every time we cross paths to see how I’m doing. At the AUT South Campus gym, Ave Araitia and Kheava Potatau have created such a welcoming environment. There hasn’t been a day I’ve felt uninvited, and they’re always there to lend a helping hand when I need it.
“On the academic side, Tristan Brotherton has been a huge support and is definitely the man for buying me a large Sal's pizza, and Dr Sarah Wymer is an exceptional lecturer. Even though she has had to keep me in line for talking a few times, her passion for her subjects and her ability to make learning entertaining have made her one of the best teachers I’ve ever had.”
Finding his path
As much as he loves studying sport, Warren admits that his university journey almost looked quite different.
“I originally wanted to study paramedicine, but I loved and enjoyed sport and wanted to align my studies with something I was passionate about. I discovered that through a bachelor’s degree in sport, exercise and health I could base my long-term career around a space I enjoyed being a part of. I wanted to learn about active and healthy bodies while maintaining the connection I have with sport.”
Deciding to come to AUT for his studies was easy for him.
“I wanted to study locally, and a lot of my friends were going to study at AUT. But the main reason I chose AUT was because it was consistently ranking highly globally for its sport science programmes, for being home to the AUT Sport Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ) and for being a leading partner for the New Zealand Olympic Team. So naturally, I assumed it would be most suitable for my aspirations. I’ve loved being able to make new friends, meet people who are highly experienced in their respective industries and learn from individuals who are truly passionate about their craft. Being in such a diverse community has encouraged me to grow both personally and professionally.”
Supported to thrive
Hoping to become a sports agent for rugby players when he graduates, Warren says he is grateful for receiving a FUJIFILM Business Innovation Scholarship to support him while he’s working toward his goal.
“I was incredibly honoured and blessed to be named the recipient of the 2025 FUJIFILM Business Innovation Scholarship. This award provided $10,000 toward my education, fully covering a year of my tuition and providing a stipend for my living expenses. Beyond the financial support, the team at FUJIFILM has made a significant impact on my life, enabling me to focus entirely on my academic goals without the weight of financial stress.”
He has some great advice for other students who are thinking about applying for a scholarship in the future.
“Don’t let the fear of 'not being good enough' stop you from applying. Express your true self and have the courage to put your story out there. You never know what doors might open when you’re brave enough to be seen. Regardless of what others may think, if you don't apply, the answer is already no. So take the chance and just go for it.”
