Who is Ana Sokratov?
Ana Sokratov was a respected Māori leader with lived experience of mental distress, known nationally for her staunch commitment to justice, advocacy, and ensuring the voices of tāngata whaiora were heard and valued. Throughout her life, Ana provided leadership, guidance and mentorship to many, including those who have gone on to hold Māori lived experience leadership and representative roles across Aotearoa.
The Ana Sokratov Scholarship honours Ana’s legacy by supporting ākonga with lived or living experience of hauora hinengaro (mental wellbeing) and/or substance use recovery (AOD) to further their education and pursue their aspirations.
The Ana Sokratov Scholarship is designed to provide practical financial support to whānau with lived or living experience of hauora hinengaro and/or substance recovery who are pursuing study.
This year (2026), four successful applicants can receive up to $2,500 each to help ease some of the course-related costs that can come with studying. This funding can be used towards tuition or course fees, textbooks, stationery, required learning resources, and other approved costs directly related to your study.
How can the Ana Sokratov Scholarship support you?
While the scholarship cannot be used for general living or personal expenses such as rent, household costs, personal debt, or other non-study-related needs, its purpose is to remove some of the financial barriers associated with education and help whānau focus on progressing their learning journey.
More than financial assistance, the scholarship is an investment in the aspirations of whānau with lived experience, recognising the value of their experiences, their potential, and the contribution they can make within their whānau and communities.
More in
You can apply if:
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You have whakapapa Māori
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Have lived or living experience in hauora hinengaro (mental health) and/or substance recovering (AOD)
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You are enrolled to study in 2026
Who is
eligible to apply?
Nicole Maihi - 2025 Recipient
“It came at a time when I needed the support most and made a meaningful difference to my final year of study.”
Waiata Rifle - 2025 Recipient
“Your story is simply your truth. When you share it, you remind others that they are not alone and offer hope through your own journey.”
Vanilla Martin - 2024 Recipient
"My whānau and I are deeply humbled and grateful to receive the Ana Hinerangi Sokratov scholarship. Ana's legacy of advocacy is vast, and I am honoured to continue her work. Ko au te awa, ko te awa ko au; ko au te ngāhere, ko te ngāhere tātou katoa."