A Tauranga university student who has volunteered more than 50 hours in a single term while balancing study and work has been named the region’s latest Volunteer Star.

Soyeon Kim, 29, is studying towards a Graduate Diploma in Primary Teaching at the University of Waikato’s Tauranga campus and was recognised for her contribution to community programmes across the Bay of Plenty, a media release this week said.

The Volunteer Star Award highlights people making outstanding contributions in their communities.

Kim logged 57 hours this term with youth organisation Recreate, while also volunteering as a woodworking workshop facilitator for children in Gate Pā.

Originally from South Korea, she moved to New Zealand two years ago and turned to volunteering as a way to build connections in her new community.

“I wanted to feel more connected to this community and feel a sense of belonging. Doing volunteer work seemed like the perfect way,” she said.

Through Recreate, Kim supported programmes for young people with disabilities, taking part in day trips, activities and social events.

“Human connection is really important to me,” she said.

“My family and old friends are in Korea, so volunteering gives me a valuable opportunity to feel connected with others here.”

She said the experience had been mutually rewarding.

“They helped me, and I helped them. We shared our stories, had fun together and made memories.”

Alongside her work with Recreate, Kim also volunteers weekly with a woodworking programme, helping children build projects including birdhouses and toolboxes.

She said seeing young participants gain confidence was one of the highlights.

Soyeon helping to run a pop-up workshop with the Boat Building New Zealand team at the Children's Day event in Tauranga CBD.

“It was really good to see him focused on his work and be proud of what he had achieved.”

Recreate Bay of Plenty programme coordinator Adam Barrett said Kim stood out for both the number of hours she gave and the quality of her support.

“She has volunteered for a significant number of programmes, that’s the main reason why I nominated her.”

During Term 2, Kim volunteered across five programmes, including holiday activities, a roller disco, a Waihī train trip, a karaoke evening and a two-day getaway to Cooks Beach.

“I couldn’t ask for a better volunteer. Her communication and the way she supports the young people we work with is exactly what we would want from any volunteer.”

She has already signed up to support seven more programmes next term, and Barrett said her approach with participants was what set her apart.

“She is very patient and kind, with a really good approach. She always treats people with disabilities at an age-appropriate level, with respect and dignity, which I really value.”

Kim plans to continue volunteering as she works towards becoming a teacher in New Zealand.

“People will welcome you,” she said.

“You’ll make connections and find happiness. It could be a life-changer for you. It was for me.”