UCOL Manawatū photography ākonga (students) have once again proven they’re a creative force to be reckoned with, sweeping the 2025 NZIPP Iris Professional Photography Awards with every student receiving a Bronze award or higher — a testament to the calibre of talent nurtured within UCOL.
Stephanie West, Academic Portfolio Manager – Creative, Development & Transition, says the results speak volumes about the strength of the programme and the dedication of its students.
“This kind of success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of passionate teaching, industry-aligned learning, and students who are brave enough to push creative boundaries. We’re incredibly proud of every single student who entered,” says West.
“Racheal Young, who has recently finished her diploma, was our stand-out, receiving two Gold Awards and the coveted title of Student of the Year, a title that celebrates excellence, originality, and technical mastery in student photography.
Lucas Dixon, Amelia Fitzpatrick, and Jude Hamblyn all received Silver Distinction awards.
Jude Hamblyn, Nikolas Kearns, Viet Hang Pham, Naidene Schneider, and Rhianne Tod (two entries), all received Silver awards.
Meg Feehan (three entries), Amelia Fitzpatrick, Viet Hang Pham, Naidene Schneider, Jody Spencer, and Rachael Young received Bronze awards.
Meg Feehan, Amelia Fitzpatrick, Viet Hang Pham, Jody Spencer, Rhianne Tod, and Rachael Young received Professional Standard awards,” says West.
“This means almost 80% of UCOL’s entries were recognised with top-tier awards — a phenomenal result that places our students among the best emerging photographers in Aotearoa.”
The Iris Awards, run by the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP), is the country’s most prestigious photography competition. Judged by panels of respected national and international experts, the awards celebrate technical excellence, originality, and creative vision.
West adds that the awards are more than just accolades — they’re a launchpad.
“These awards show that UCOL is the best place to learn photography in New Zealand. Our students don’t just graduate with a qualification — they leave with a portfolio that’s already winning national recognition. That’s a huge advantage for anyone wanting to break into the industry.”