From Poverty to University: Inspirational Journey | She Grew Up Sleeping in a Car, Now Studying at University

Juliann Purea-Desai's Childhood Amidst Hardship

Juliann Purea-Desai's story begins in the tough realities of child poverty in New Zealand, where instability was a constant companion. Growing up, she and her family frequently moved between homes, sometimes resorting to sleeping in a car when options ran out. Basic necessities like consistent meals and safe shelter were often out of reach, mirroring the struggles faced by thousands of Kiwi children.2050 As a young girl, Juliann witnessed her parents' efforts to provide, yet systemic challenges like low wages and housing shortages kept them in a cycle of precarity. Her involvement as a youth advisor with Pillars Ka Pou Whakahou, a charity supporting children of incarcerated parents, stems from these experiences, highlighting her early resilience.53

The Spark of Determination: Finding Education as Escape

Despite the chaos, Juliann excelled academically, driven by an innate passion for performing arts. Teachers noticed her talent during school plays and drama classes, encouraging her to dream bigger. This support was crucial, as students from low socio-economic backgrounds often lack such guidance. Entering secondary school, she balanced studies with family responsibilities, but the dream of higher education persisted. 'My childhood reflects the reality of thousands growing up in poverty here,' Juliann has shared, emphasizing that her journey is not unique but representative.0

Transitioning to tertiary level required navigating financial aid applications and personal doubts. New Zealand's higher education system offers pathways through polytechnics like Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, now part of Te Pūkenga, which provides vocational programs accessible to diverse learners.

Stepping into Toi Ohomai: A New Chapter Begins

Juliann enrolled in the performing arts program at Toi Ohomai in Tauranga, marking her as the first in her family to pursue tertiary education. This institute emphasizes practical skills in creative fields, aligning perfectly with her strengths. Scholarships and study awards at Toi Ohomai, such as the Toi Ohomai Study Award for Bay of Plenty residents, help bridge financial gaps for students like her.82 The program's structure—blending theory, performance workshops, and industry placements—equips students for careers in theatre, film, and community arts.

Her daily routine now includes rehearsals, lectures on stagecraft, and group projects, a far cry from car-sleeping nights. Peers and lecturers praise her work ethic, noting how she brings lived authenticity to roles exploring social issues.

Child Poverty in New Zealand: Stats and Realities

New Zealand faces persistent child poverty challenges impacting future generations' access to higher education. According to Stats NZ's year ended June 2025 report, 12.6 percent of children lived in households with less than 50 percent of the median equivalised disposable income after housing costs—a measure after housing costs (AHC).66 Material hardship affects one in seven children (around 169,300), up 47,500 since 2022, with higher rates for Māori (one in four) and disabled children.6869

• 12.6% children in low-income households AHC
• 14% experiencing material hardship (unable to afford basics like fresh fruit, medical visits)
• Māori tamariki: 25% hardship rate
• Impact: Lower school attendance, achievement gaps leading to reduced tertiary participation

These figures underscore why stories like Juliann's are vital for advocacy. Stats NZ Child Poverty Report

Barriers Facing Low-Income Students in NZ Higher Education

First-generation and low-income students encounter multiple hurdles: financial strain, lack of familial guidance on applications, cultural mismatches in elite institutions, and mental health pressures from poverty trauma. Participation rates from low decile schools lag, with only a fraction advancing to university compared to high decile peers.120

• Costs: Fees ($7,000+ domestic undergrad), living expenses ($20,000+/year)
• Access: Fewer role models; half scholarships go to wealthy students
• Support Gaps: Limited mentoring, transport issues
• Outcomes: Higher dropout rates (20-30% for equity groups)

Juliann navigated these via targeted scholarships and community networks.

Initiatives Bridging the Gap: Scholarships and Programs

NZ universities and polytechnics offer robust support. First Foundation provides scholarships, mentoring, and internships for talented low-income students.86 Examples include:

• University of Auckland's Weston First in Family Scholarship: Up to $8,000/year
• Waikato Students' Union First in Family: For final-year undergrads
• University of Canterbury Te Kakau a Māui: Targets low-decile schools
• Toi Ohomai Māori Student Scholarships: Retention to higher levels
• National directory via AcademicJobs

These programs define 'first in family' as no immediate relatives with degrees, prioritizing equity groups. Government fees-free for first-year also aids entry.

More Success Stories Lighting the Way

Juliann isn't alone. Questo, supported by Visionwest Community Trust, went from rough sleeping and car-living to university studies after youth housing and mentoring.107 Kiyara Glasgow, a formerly homeless teen, fought back through school determination, exemplifying resilience.30 Far North's Tearohanui Chellew, first in family, secured scholarships for environmental science at AUT.23

These narratives show systemic supports working when accessible.

Long-Term Impacts and Breaking the Cycle

Poverty correlates with lower tertiary enrolment (e.g., 39% NZ attainment rate lags OECD), perpetuating inequality.127 Graduates from disadvantaged backgrounds often excel, contributing diverse perspectives to fields like arts and community work. Juliann aims to advocate via performance, inspiring others.

Future Outlook: Policy and Community Solutions

Addressing root causes requires increased funding for equity scholarships, expanded fees-free, mental health services, and housing stability. Recent child poverty upticks demand action.67 Universities like Toi Ohomai lead with inclusive vocational paths, preparing students for higher ed jobs.

Photo by Don T on Unsplash

• Boost targeted scholarships
• Partnerships with low-decile schools
• Mentoring for first-gen students
• Policy: Align welfare with study costs

Actionable Steps for Aspiring Students

If you're from a similar background, start here:

• Research scholarships early via Study with NZ
• Seek school counselors for applications
• Apply for student allowances/loans
• Connect with First Foundation or iwi grants
• Build portfolio for creative programs

Juliann's advice: 'Keep pushing; your story matters.' Explore Rate My Professor for course insights, university jobs post-grad.