When service is both instinct and intention, remarkable things can unfold. For Madeleine Wilson, QMC’s 2025 Service Prefect, giving back has never been just a task – it’s been a creative, heartfelt calling grounded in the belief that small acts can create lasting change.

“Service has always been at the heart of QMC”, she reflects. “I was drawn to this role because I wanted to grow that spirit and create opportunities that felt meaningful and hands-on.”

Her definition is clear: noticing where you can help and choosing to act. “It’s about dignity, access, and empathy. Since taking on this role, I’ve realised service is also about listening”, Madeleine says. “Some of the most meaningful projects this year have come from hearing what other students and community members care about and finding ways to support those ideas.”

The Pack a Pencil Case initiative that kickstarted Madeleine’s service journey continues to make an impact. What began as a Year 10 Community Project has now delivered more than 1,000 stationery-filled pencil cases to students in low-decile schools – and earned her two Mayoral Awards. But it wasn’t the accolades that shifted her thinking. “A recipient said, ‘I’ve never had my own stationery before.’ That comment stayed with me. It made me realise the power of giving and the importance of making others feel seen.”

This year, Madeleine led two service clubs through the Queen’s Edge and Cross-Curricular programmes and fundraised $4,000 to date for a life-saving AED, an automated external defibrillator used during sudden cardiac arrest.

Madeleine’s goal? To fund one AED for Hobson Street, benefitting the Thorndon community, and a second AED to gift to another school. Service club students in Years 5 to 9 fundraised out in the community and made resin pocket hugs and stone magnets to thank donors. “That project was about more than the money. We showed girls that their time and effort could literally help save lives.”

Madeleine’s leadership style is hands-on and inclusive – working with fellow prefects and younger students to embed service into everyday school life. From championing fundraising efforts for Relay for Life to partnering with our school charities Who Did You Help Today?, Embracing Hearts, and Wellington Free Ambulance, Madeleine’s opened doors for others to lead. “I hope students walk away knowing they can make a difference now, not just later.”

As Madeleine prepares to leave QMC, she’s focused on legacy: training younger students, sustaining the service clubs, and showcasing this year’s efforts at Open Day. “I want service to be something students are excited about. I hope they see it as a way to connect, lead, and uplift others.”