Lincoln University students living on campus during the COVID-19 quarantine went head-to-head in a recent inter-flat talent competition to inject some fun into lockdown life.
An idea cooked up by accommodation staff and residential assistants, the contest involved students virtually showcasing their “weird and wonderful talents” for the chance to win New World vouchers valued at $250 (first prize), $100 (second prize) and $50 (third prize).
Entrants could participate as soloists or in groups with their flatmates.
The response was overwhelming, with a wide range of talents on display, including cookery, photography, painting, drawing, guitar-playing, origami, and even a hula-hoop routine.
First prize went to Zhenyu Li, who submitted a video of himself playing an outstanding guitar piece. In second place equal were Zac Cody, for his beautiful painting of a tui, and Shibani Suresh and Hinal Gala, who performed a joint semi-classical Indian dance.
Third prize went to Ni Zhong, for singing a song in three different languages (including Chinese, Korean and English), and Morgane Lecuyer, who created a series of origami works and imaginatively photographed them.
The competition was a wonderful way for the student residents to make virtual connections and tap into their creativity during the lockdown.
“We certainly have some incredibly talented students here at Lincoln University,” said Accommodation Services Manager Jamie Threadwell.