High ambitions for Kelston Boys High student

Aspiring leader: Albert Fale hopes to continue being an example to the Samoan community.  

By Leanne Warr 

Albert Fale has a saying: "Aim for the moon - even if you miss it you can land on the stars." 

The Kelston Boys High School student has had high ambitions throughout his time at secondary school. 

And his attitude has paid off with a $1000 scholarship from the Soroptomist International organisation. 

It is the first time the women's group has given the grant to a male. 

The Carmela McHardy Youth Citizenship award is named after the late wife of former Waitemata mayor Ian McHardy and given to students who have made a significant contribution to their community. 

Albert almost didn't apply for the scholarship thinking it was only for young women. 

But he now hopes to encourage other boys to go for it. 

The 18 year-old is the youngest of six siblings but is the only one who has excelled in school. 

"I tell my nephews and nieces I've set the benchmark," he says. 

The New Lynn resident feels it's important to make a difference in his community. 

He thought being named deputy head boy was the highlight of the year but the scholarship topped that. 

"It's been a good year for me." 

Albert performs with Blaze, a hip hop group that placed 15th in last year's world championships, and teaches dance at Glen Eden Intermediate. 

"Dance is my passion," he says. 

This year he was selected to represent Auckland at the Aspiring Leaders Forum in Wellington. 

"I take every opportunity I can," he says.  

Western Leader