By Amanda Durry  November 26 2009

For Tainui Kuru attending a top theatre school next year is a dream come true, and that dream has been given a boost by a new community fund.

The talented young singer is set to be the first recipient of a grant for young persons of extraordinary ability.

 The Ashburton College head boy for 2009 is attending the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Arts (NASDA) next year and will receive $10,000 to put towards his three years of study.

 Assistance will not only include the financial support but will also include the identification of an appropriate mentor for the young person.

 Eighteen-year-old Tainui decided he wanted to attend the theatre school about a year ago and that passion grew throughout the year.

 “I was really happy to get in to NASDA and it’s a blessing to have so many people get on board to help out with my course costs. It’s also hugely humbling to be the first recipient and I’m almost like a guinea pig for those in the future so I hope it goes well,” he said.

 The money donated to the fund is aimed at providing assistance to a young person with extraordinary ability in their particular field of endeavour.

 The idea for the fund was initiated by district councillor Robin Kilworth and a sub-committee of the college’s board of trustees was created – with three members of the community and three from the school.

 The criteria for applicants will be tough and members of the committee must be satisfied with the level of need and talent.

 Advance Ashburton Community Foundation will administer the funds and donations can be made through CBS Canterbury or mailed to the firm.