This September, we’ve welcomed 17 new members to Global Women—a diverse group of incredible women with vast experiences to inspire you. Read through their Aspirations for Women statements to learn more about them.
Markerita (Meg) Poutasi
National Director, Pacific Health
That emerging Pacific leaders experience an environment that reinforces and grows their ability to impact change in Aotearoa. That all women have the opportunity to contribute to problem solving the wicked issues emerging in our communities, including the wealth inequities, climate adaptation challenges, and the shifting landscape of AI to enhance human endeavours. That our young people are adaptive and responsive to their shifting context as science and the environment shape how we use technologies in the future. That all women can bring their values and work ethic to bear in a meaningful career of their choosing, whether locally, within our Pacific region or globally.
Kavita Khanna
National President, Human Resourses Institude of New Zealand
From tech to teaching, arts to aerospace, the women of Aotearoa aren’t just breaking glass ceilings—they’re building entire skylines for women worldwide to flourish in. They role model examples of leadership that isn’t just about who can shout the loudest but who can listen the best, plan the wisest, and act the bravest and with compassion. Let’s not forget the everyday women – the mothers managing households to the volunteers in our communities, their contributions are invaluable. These are the unsung heroes whose efforts keep our society thriving. Maya Angelou’s proud declaration, “I’m a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that’s me,” – for me, that echoes the spirit of New Zealand women.
We have a strong starting point when compared to the world and that is all the more reason we need to keep going. But let’s be real – we still have a way to go. Equality is still an ongoing struggle. As we make small gains, there is underlying resentment. Loss of privilege can feel like oppression and so each positive action, each forward step taken is assessed “too p.c., what about men and so on”. But here’s a little secret—equality isn’t a pie where more for you means less for me. It’s a banquet where everyone gets a seat at the table. And trust me, the women of New Zealand are ready to feast.
The aspirations for Kiwi women are clear: a society where gender pay gap is a thing of past, the unpaid work done by women has economic value and where every woman’s worth is recognized. It is about women growing the next generation of strong and compassionate leaders and workplaces where we are no longer mansplained in corporate interactions and performance feedback is about work and not about personality.
I am a Nair woman. I come from a matriarchal lineage where women have always held a position of respect and authority. My father taught me to believe there were no limits to what I could achieve. From my mother, I learnt that patience and compassion are leadership strengths. I have sisters who are fabulous leaders in their own right. Thirty years ago, I married my best friend who has been my rock, and together we have raised a son who respects women.
I try to do my bit. I lead in a female dominated industry, I lead teams that are dominated by women – HR, Administration. I have stopped my teams using dimunitives such as “girls” when they refer to each other. Similarly “I’m just a…” is banned from introductions. I coach and mentor other women and my work is about focusing on creating positive workplace experiences and advocating for inclusive work contexts.
Here’s to us, the women of Aotearoa New Zealand. Our future is bright, our potential is limitless, and our journey is just beginning. Keep inspiring, and keep supporting other women.
Jo Roberson
Therapist and Educator
My aspirations for New Zealand women are rooted in my 18 years of experience in sexual health, trauma, and therapy. My vision focuses on key areas that can create a brighter future for young girls:
Empowerment Through Education
I want to ensure women are fully informed about sexual health, relationships, and online safety. By making education accessible and comprehensive, we can empower women to make confident decisions about their bodies and relationships. Knowledge is power, and it’s the foundation for upcoming generations.
Representation
Visible female leadership is crucial. I strive to inspire more women to take on leadership roles with the motto “see one, be one” working for girls everywhere. Diverse perspectives enrich our society, and having women in leadership benefits everyone.
Support for Healthy Relationships
Promoting healthier relationships is a key goal. Effective communication and relationship skills can reduce sexual harm, improve interpersonal connections, and family wellbeing.
Advocacy and Policy Change
I aim to influence policies that protect women and children. My campaign for the Internet Watch Foundation’s Child Sexual Abuse Material block list in New Zealand is one example. I’ll keep pushing for regulations that safeguard women’s rights and safety both online and offline.
Championing Mental Health
Mental health is vital. By training therapists, organizing events, and speaking at conferences, I aim to destigmatize mental health issues and ensure women have access to the help they need. Good mental health empowers women to lead fulfilling lives.
In summary, my aspirations for New Zealand women are to see them empowered, educated, represented, and supported in all aspects of their lives. Through my ongoing work, I aim to contribute to a society where women thrive and lead with confidence.
Catherine (Kate) Parsons
Independent Director, Mainfreight Limited
I would love for the women of Aotearoa to have a deep and true belief that they can be anything they want to be and do anything they choose to do.
I want those women, young and old, to live in a society that nurtures and builds that confidence and provides reasons for them to say ‘yes’ to opportunities that come their way; not roadblocks.
I want people in leadership positions to constantly ask questions when women are not putting themselves forward or stepping up. It is too easy to explain away a lack of diversity this way. We need to make sure we are creating positive environments that allow women to operate at their best and contribute fully without fear of judgement, intimidation or ridicule.
I want women to have the confidence and resilience to ignore the detractors and the naysayers and their own negative voices…..knowing that even if things don’t work out, they will be o.k.
I want women to be empowered to make decisions for themselves and their children, and the financial independence that allows them to follow through on them.
I would love more men to acknowledge and embrace the challenge that exists in regards to diversity and equity, so that they can make decisions at home and in the workplace which support inclusion.
I had a privileged upbringing, with parents who supported my aspirations academically, on the sports field and later in my career. In turn, my daughter was offered opportunities that will set her up for a life of security and purpose…. And so it continues. I hope that women like us will use that privilege for good; in a way that supports and uplifts, and creates a better society for all.
Kari Jones
Chief Data Officer, Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora
Closing the Female Authority & Credibility Gap: Empowering Women for Success in New Zealand
In the journey towards equality, addressing the credibility gap faced by women in New Zealand emerges as a pivotal step. This gap, rooted in biases and stereotypes, undermines the recognition of women’s competence, expertise, and leadership capabilities. Yet, its impact extends far beyond individual perceptions—it shapes the very landscape of opportunity and progress for women across industries.
Embracing Equal Recognition
Closing the credibility gap means embracing equal recognition for women’s achievements and contributions. It means celebrating their successes, innovations, and leadership with the same enthusiasm and respect afforded to their male counterparts. By amplifying women’s voices and experiences, we not only validate our skills but also inspire future generations of women to aspire higher and achieve more.
Fostering Confidence and Leadership
When women are seen and heard, when our credibility is unquestioned, they are empowered to lead with confidence and purpose. Closing the gap fosters an environment where women can assert their ideas, drive change, and influence decisions at all levels of society. This empowerment is not just about individual success—it enriches workplaces, communities, and the nation as a whole by leveraging diverse perspectives and talents.
Driving Economic and Social Progress
Economic and social progress thrives on inclusivity and diversity. By closing the credibility gap, we unlock untapped potential and innovation. Women contribute unique insights and solutions to challenges, driving sustainable growth and prosperity. Empowered women in leadership roles inspire others, creating a ripple effect of positive change that benefits families, businesses, and the broader economy.
Creating a Fair and Just Society
At its core, addressing the credibility gap is about creating a fair and just society where meritocracy prevails. It’s about ensuring that every individual—regardless of gender—has an equal opportunity to succeed based on their skills, talents, and hard work. By dismantling barriers and biases, we pave the way for a future where every woman in New Zealand can thrive, contribute meaningfully, and fulfill our potential.
The Path Forward
As we strive towards a more inclusive and equitable future, I am committed to closing the credibility gap for women in New Zealand, challenging stereotypes, promoting visibility, and championing women’s achievements. Together, we can build a society where every woman’s expertise is recognized, valued, and celebrated—a society where barriers to success are replaced with pathways of opportunity and empowerment.
Liz O’Neil
Chief Financial Officer, TVNZ
My aspirations for todays and future generations for women in Aotearoa is that they continue to find their voice and see the opportunity to be part of change across our special nation. Diversity of thought & voice is vital at a community & organisation level we all have a role in the leadership of this.
Opportunities should be available to all agnostic of gender, race, age, neuro or physical abilities. The collective of Global Women bring together those who are able to facilitate, support and create opportunities.
Jing Song
Founder and Managing Director, Crown Range Cellar
As a Chinese woman in New Zealand, I am deeply proud and honored to be able to contribute to my female compatriots in New Zealand.
New Zealand women are ambitious, have a global perspective and are extremely inspiring. I promise to spare no effort to promote gender equality and ensure that every New Zealand woman can enjoy equal opportunities and rights in all fields. I will vigorously advocate educational equity and inspire more women to pursue knowledge and improve themselves by providing them with abundant learning and growth resources and strong support.
The road of starting a business may be lonely, but I deeply know that women like global superstars can make a mark with sales talent, professionalism and empathy. The importance of network is self-evident. I am eager to join the next generation of global women’s organizations. Just as I believe that the power of unity is infinite, I will actively cooperate with global women’s organizations to jointly create a more beautiful, equal and opportunity-filled future for New Zealand women.
I will strive to break the shackles of traditional concepts and encourage women to bravely pursue their dreams and career goals. Through organizing various exchange activities and sharing successful experiences, I will inspire women’s confidence and courage. At the same time, I also always pay attention to women’s health and well-being, and actively promote the implementation of relevant policies and projects to enable women to obtain high-quality healthcare services.
Let us join hands and work unremittingly for the all-round development of women. Let New Zealand women shine in all communities and lead the country to a better tomorrow. Whether they are native or come here through immigration like me, they can all have equal pay, opportunities and freedom.
Jaydene Buckley
Managing Director, OSACO Group Limited
As a business leader working across borders, I consistently witness the underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles.
I am dedicated to empowering women to realise their full potential by championing policies and practices that ensure equitable representation and participation in all areas. My passion lies in empowering women to lead, innovate, and make decisions that shape the future, regardless of their role, for the betterment of all.
Through my work, I aim to inspire others to challenge the status quo, embrace diversity, and champion equity in all its forms.
Pooja Aggarwal
Managing Director, Schindler Lifts NZ
I am passionate about building Leader in Heels. Being born in a traditional family, I needed to break a lot of barriers and societal patterns to make my mark in the corporate world. Having been privileged through my career to have some great Mentors and coaches both female and male that enabled me to achieve goals I only dreamed of, this has left me a desire to do more to support women in the early stages of their careers. I believe through mentoring and encouraging young women I can show them a pathway to believe in themselves, step up and be great leaders in New Zealand. My ambition is to have more women in Board room and steering large organisations for growth & community building. I believe in immense potential that each of us are born with and want to be an enabler in unleashing the same.
Alex Howieson
Chair, NZ Waterpolo
Coming from my earliest workplace experiences in transport and aviation, primarily in male-dominated industries, I have been privileged to have been mentored and supported by incredibly gifted men and women. I have a personal mission to pay these experiences forward. Now a mother and business leader, I have another lens to put forward my contribution to other women. I strive to be a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion, committed to leaving the business world in a better place for our sisters and daughters. Our ultimate goal should be to eliminate discrimination in all its forms through respectful exploratory dialogue and collaborative approaches to problem-solving. With a strong commitment to creating safety for women from their homes to their workplaces, I am dedicated to eliminating gender-based violence in all its forms and believe basing our foundational focus on a cornerstone of respect and behavioral modeling at the highest levels is critical to achieve this.
I believe together we can strive to include everyone in the conversation and use our platforms to lift women and provide a space at the table for all voices to be heard and meaningfully considered.
Ki te whai koe I te maunga, ka tae atu
Ki taua maunga. Heoi, ki te titiro ngā whetū,
Ka whakaarohia ngā mea e hiahiatia ana –
Kātahi ka whakatinanatia
You can aim for the mountain and just get to the mountain.
Or you can look to the stars, imagine what should be – and then put those imaginings in place – Annette Sykes
Erin Venter
Former Chief People Officer, PwC
As a leader but most importantly mother of two young daughters I am passionate about ensuring that we create a truly inclusive and diverse future in Aotearoa where everyone is heard and all perspectives are equal. A future where women feel empowered and safe to speak their minds and are viewed as equal in all workplaces but especially around the leadership table and in the boardroom.
Amy Stevens
Founder & CEO, Slice
Amy is passionate about a future where women, especially Māori wāhine, have financial security, independence, and strong representation in the technology sector. She believes that by achieving financial independence and securing a stable future, women can break free from traditional barriers and create lasting wealth. Amy is passionate about empowering women to take charge of their financial futures through property ownership, which she sees as a key path to stability and prosperity.
Historically, women in New Zealand faced significant financial limitations. It wasn’t until the 1960s that women were able to open their own bank accounts without needing permission from their husbands or fathers. As recently as the 1980s in Aotearoa, single women wanting to buy property were either refused mortgages or only given mortgages when a male relative guaranteed the loan. Amy highlights that property ownership provides a tangible way for women to build wealth and security, offering a foundation that previous generations of women were denied. She emphasises the importance of education in helping women navigate the complexities of the property market and make informed investment decisions.
In addition to financial independence through property, Amy sees immense potential for women and wāhine Māori in the technology space, a field that continues to grow and evolve. Women and wāhine in particular remain underrepresented in technology roles. Amy is determined to change that by encouraging more women to get curious about technology and explore opportunities in this dynamic industry. She believes that wāhine Māori, with their heritage of storytelling and innovation, are uniquely positioned to excel in tech, bringing fresh perspectives and driving meaningful change both locally in Aotearoa and globally.
Amy aspires to see women and wāhine take up more space in the technology sector, where they can harness their natural talents and lead with authenticity. Being māori herself Amy is increasing visibility of wāhine in the tech space and actively championing educating on the opportunities available. She wants women and wāhine to not only participate but thrive as innovators, creators, and leaders, paving the way for future generations in the technology space and beyond.
Maria Jose Alvarez
Managing Partner, WNT Ventures
As I look ahead for the women of Aotearoa, I feel both optimistic and determined. We are in a time of great opportunity, where women’s contributions are more recognized than ever. Yet, the journey to full equality is ongoing, and it calls for our collective courage and commitment.
My aspiration is for women to lead with confidence, breaking the barriers that have held us back. I see a future where women aren’t just participants but leaders in every field—from science and politics to business and the arts. To achieve this, we must keep challenging the status quo and advocating for ourselves and each other in every space.
I want the next generation of women to grow up with the freedom to pursue their passions. We need to create environments where girls are encouraged to explore STEM and entrepreneurship. We must inspire them to dream big and ensure they have the resources, support, and mentorship to make those dreams a reality.
I also envision more women taking leadership roles, especially in areas where we’ve been underrepresented, like finance, entrepreneurship, and venture capital. It’s not just about gender parity; it’s about bringing diverse perspectives to drive innovation. I encourage businesses to promote gender and ethnic diversity at all levels, which will strengthen both our economy and society.
The future is bright for the women of New Zealand, and together, we can build a world where every woman has the chance to thrive.
Stephanie Honey
Managing Director, Honey Consulting
I am a strong believer in both gender equality and the potential for trade as a force for good in the world. I believe that there are powerful synergies between the two, and I am committed to working to champion equity, opportunity and success for all of the women of Aotearoa New Zealand in business and in international trade, and in turn, enabling trade to support a more sustainable, inclusive and prosperous future for all. I would like to see women’s voices and ideas uplifted, acknowledged and celebrated in New Zealand and on the global stage. Women can and must not only be active participants in finding the solutions to the many challenges that confront us today, but are in fact essential to this. We are still on the journey to the full realisation of women’s empowerment in every sphere of life in New Zealand and many other countries, and even going backwards in some. My hope is to see true gender equity and equality in my lifetime. I look forward to the day when we no longer need to talk about these issues – because there is nothing left to do.
Cora Huitt
Owner and Director. Women’s Health Physical Therapy
Cora Huitt is a health professional dedicated to empowering women through education. In New Zealand, she received two grants from Te Hau Toka to provide antenatal and postnatal musculoskeletal education, addressing issues like abdominal diastasis, incontinence, and pelvic pain. She authored a self-education booklet to promote awareness of musculoskeletal health and is developing a website to empower women with knowledge on preventable dysfunctions, including the use of orthotics and exercise. Additionally, Cora has collaborated with minority and ACC leaders to address increased rates of tears and mental health concerns.
Jayshree Das
Independent Director
Jayshree Das brings extensive experience in governance and C-Suite roles (COO, CFO, CRO), focusing on strategy execution and fostering organizational growth. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, productivity, and innovation, while developing high-performing teams. As COO and CFO of a global investment bank, she balanced operational demands with a strong client focus, and as Chief Risk Officer, she transformed the organisational structure of a wealth management firm to meet regulatory standards. A trusted leader in regulated environments, she has successfully led initiatives in risk management and corporate governance, collaborating with industry bodies to establish compliance frameworks.
Swathy Gudipoodi
Group Manager – Finance & Commercial, Northpower
Swathy Gudipoodi is the Group Manager for Finance & Commercial at Northpower, where she shapes financial strategies and operations with nearly thirty years of experience in senior leadership roles. Known for her dynamic leadership style, she excels in coaching and mentoring her teams to achieve high-performance goals while driving process improvements and managing change effectively. Swathy has successfully executed numerous impactful projects, earning recognition for her contributions to organisational objectives, including diversity and equity. She holds an Executive MBA from Massey University, and has completed prestigious programs such as the Westpac Leadership Programme for Women and the Strategic CFO Programme at the University of Auckland.