Marlburian receives top NZ honours

Lucy Blakiston, who turned a passion project started in Marlborough into the news and commentary platform trusted by millions worldwide, received a top honour Thursday night as Young New Zealander of the Year.

Her recognition came during the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards ceremony in Auckland. Another Marlburian, Leon Bristow, also was a finalist for Go Media Young New Zealander of the Year; and a third, Leatham Landon-Lane, was a finalist for 2degrees New Zealand Innovator of the Year.

Among the resulting accolades, Lucy earned kudos from Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor.

“Lucy embodies the values we are proud of in Marlborough – innovation, integrity and heart," the mayor said. "She is inspiring a generation to care, think critically and to make a difference. We could not be prouder of her.

“On behalf of the Marlborough community, I warmly congratulate Lucy on this outstanding national honour.”

Three weeks earlier, after learning she made the top three in her category, Lucy told Marlborough Weekly: "It’s so sick and also very humbling to be still in the 'young' category! I'm so excited to bring my family up to the awards night and have the loudest table in the whole room, too!"

Organisers encapsulated accomplishments leading to her award as follows:

"Lucy Blakiston is a dynamic storyteller and changemaker from Marlborough, best known as the Founder and CEO of Shit You Should Care About (SYSCA) – one of the world’s most influential youth-led media platforms. What began as a small passion project in her bedroom has become a trusted news and commentary source for millions of young people globally.

"With over three million Instagram followers and a fast-growing daily newsletter, Lucy’s work empowers rangatahi to engage with current issues in an accessible, informed, and empathetic way.

"Beyond digital media, Lucy has co-authored Make It Make Sense, a guidebook helping young people navigate the complexities of modern life. Signed by Hollywood’s oldest talent agency, WME, she continues to expand her reach while staying grounded in her Aotearoa New Zealand roots.

"Lucy Blakiston is inspiring a generation to care deeply, think critically, and act with heart."