Abeer is a New Zealand certified Adult English teacher with extensive experience supporting diverse learners in community and workplace settings. She is the workplace English Programmes Coordinator at ELP.  Through her position, she makes connections across cultures and empowers individuals through education. She also serves as a member of the Ethnic Leaders Circle for Takapuna-Devonport local board, contributing to inclusive community development. Abeer is committed to inspiring and engaging women across NZ.

Angela joined Belong Aotearoa as Chief Executive in October 2024. A social justice advocate at heart, she has spent her career moving between research and teaching, government, and NGOs – with stints everywhere from Aotearoa to Kenya, Tanzania, India, Belgium, Tonga, and Canada. She was born in Tāmaki Makaurau, grew up in Toronto, Canada, and is now raising two teenagers while juggling her love of big ideas with making real-world change.

Anjuman a seasoned educational leader with over two decades of experience across secondary and specialist education. She is currently serving as Acting Principal at Wilson School in Auckland, where she leads with a strategic vision rooted in inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation. Her career spans both mainstream and specialist settings, with a strong foundation in secondary science education and a deep commitment to supporting neurodiverse learners. Anjuman works closely with a range of external agencies and professionals to support families of neurodiverse children, helping them access tailored resources and services that meet their unique needs. Anjuman is passionate about building strong partnerships between schools and communities, and she actively mentors educators to foster reflective, growth-oriented leadership. Her mentoring philosophy is grounded in collaboration, empathy, and empowerment

Dr. Anmar Taufeek is the Asset Planning Manager at Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC), where she leads strategic planning and delivery of infrastructure assets to support resilient, sustainable communities. With over 18 years of leadership experience in local government and community development, Anmar brings deep expertise in health, safety, project management, and vested assets. She is passionate about creating inclusive environments and long-term outcomes that serve both people and place. Anmar is the founder of the Muslim Staff Network at Auckland Council, a board member of NZ Ethnic Social Services, and co-founder of the Good Deed Group—a grassroots volunteering initiative that empowers women to give back to their communities. A sought-after speaker, Anmar has delivered keynote addresses at international conferences, inspiring women to embrace leadership with confidence and purpose. Anmar is deeply committed to mentoring women of colour, helping them embrace their strengths and lead authentically in every space they occupy.

Antonia Lorier is a values-driven leader,  people person and life-long learner. While she currently works as a People & Performance Business Partner in Tāmaki Makaurau, her education and experience span a variety of roles, sectors and countries. Her interests and tools in her kete include: organisational development, DEIB, leadership, strategic planning and implementation, people business partnering, well-being, learning & development, youth development and advocacy for equitable outcomes and environmental sustainability. She loves spending time with whānau and friends, being active in the outdoors, languages and learning more about diverse cultures. As a Pākehā, Tangata Tiriti, she is passionate about upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and working towards decolonisation.

Ayat is the founder of EONZ Limited, an Auckland-based events company dedicated to creating inclusive, community-driven experiences. With years of experience in both the construction and events industries, Ayat has combined her skills in project management, creativity, and relationship building to successfully deliver diverse events — from bustling halal markets and cultural festivals, to women’s networking nights and youth-focused career programs. Her passion lies in empowering small businesses, fostering community connections, and opening doors for underrepresented voices. Through her platforms, she has provided hundreds of vendors, entrepreneurs, and creatives the opportunity to grow their visibility and confidence. Ayat is deeply committed to supporting young people and women to step into their own leadership journeys, encouraging them to advocate for themselves, build meaningful connections, and pursue their business ideas fearlessly.

Christine trained as a Dietitian working mainly in community and public health dietetics and nutrition, and sports nutrition in New Zealand and overseas, including Samoa and Qatar. Community involvement has always been part of Christine’s life from Plunket and School Committee/ School Board of Trustees, to puppy walking and church activities. Retirement opportunities include reading support at a local primary school and honorary “Nan” for her teacher daughter’s class.Aotearoa Women’s Watch AWW (NZ) provides an opportunity to promote equity and justice particularly for women and girls but also for the benefit of all. She feels honour and privilege to be part of this dedicated group of women and champion equity for all women from all walks of life in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Dena has been working as a Business Analyst since she graduated from Auckland University in 2012. She started as a Graduate Business Analyst at Vodafone NZ, and has more recently moved on from 2degrees where she was a Lead Business Analyst, to join Metlifecare to set up a Business Analysis Practise. She is passionate about coaching and mentoring others who are interested in the Business Analyst field. She also plays a key role in connecting early career women with concepts to break down barriers to allow them to move into Technology. She was nominated as a finalist by Reseller News NZ in the NZ Women in ICT Awards 2024 for the category of 'Rising Star.’

With over 30 years of experience in marketing and business development across various sectors and countries, Farhana has built a rich and dynamic career. Beginning in advertising and brand management, she expanded her expertise into sales and business development before finding her true passion in the field of education. In her current role, Farhana leads the University's strategic efforts in international student recruitment. She also oversees the International Recruitment and International Mobility teams, ensuring a cohesive and effective approach to student engagement. Throughout a decade of leading sales teams and mentoring staff in career development, Farhana has been instrumental in helping individuals unlock their potential, successfully navigate career transitions, and achieve their professional goals. With a profound understanding of human behaviour, motivation, and change management, Farhana is dedicated to empowering diverse voices to thrive and succeed in their careers. She is a respected community leader, mentor, and coach, committed to fostering growth and success in others.

Farhat brings nearly 20 years of public sector experience. She began as a Case Manager at MSD, where she advised individuals on steps toward employment or personal development opportunities. She has since expanded her experience across Legal, HR, IT, Housing, Education, and DEI, including serving as Co-Chair of a nationwide Public Sector Employee-Led Network, representing multiple government agencies. She has worked with people from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, strengthening her solution-focused approach and cultural competency. A lifelong learner with an adaptable and reflective mindset, she brings strong leadership, governance, and project management skills while keeping relationships and community at the heart of her work. Farhat is dedicated to supporting others as they navigate their professional and personal journeys.

Dr Smits has held numerous leadership roles. She has previously served with the Australian foreign service. She is currently working on projects exploring multiculturalism, biculturalism and national identity in New Zealand, and comparative multiculturalism policies in New Zealand, Australia and Britain. She has published several academic articles and books.

Lynette is both a registered nurse (currently non practicing) and registered psychologist.  Lynette joined the Royal New Zealand Navy in 2001 and has served in a number of psychology roles both in NZ and overseas.  Lynette is currently the Director of Navy People and Culture, a role which is responsible for the Bicultural strategy, Pacific Peoples strategy, gender strategy,  the RNZN mentoring programme` as well as other organisational behavioural change programmes.  In her spare time Lynette can be found on the hockey field or the dance studio. She is currently challenging her mind and body by learning Hawaiian hula. Lynette is a member of Auckland Government Women's  Network (AGWN) committee, a member of the Accreditation Committee for the New Zealand Psychologist Board and volunteers her time to the Premmie Knitting Club by knitting garments and sewing blankets.

Munira Khanum is the president for IWCNZ, a role she has recently been appointed after serving as the national treasurer since 2011. Munira holds a Graduate Diploma in Personal Financial Planning and has over 38 years of experience in the New Zealand financial sector. She has held various roles including Authorized Investment Adviser and Insurance advisor. Her association with IWCNZ started with the desire to connect with other migrant families and help them settle into New Zealand. She previously served as a trustee for Fatima Foundation, helping disadvantaged families. Today, her work focuses on empowering women and building community through social and sporting events. She has represented IWCNZ in overseas conferences, sharing and networking with leaders with similar visions.  In her personal life, she has raised two adult daughters, is a proud grandmother and enjoys travelling and swimming in her spare time.

Siobhan is an independent management consultant with over 15 years’ experience in business leadership, governance, and policy development across both the corporate and non-profit sectors. She co-founded and grew a successful civil construction company and has since applied her expertise to supporting small businesses and community organisations. Passionate about women’s leadership, inclusivity, and safeguarding, Siobhan also serves on the executive of Business & Professional Women New Zealand (BPW NZ), a global network dedicated to advancing women in business and leadership. She is committed to helping others start and grow their ventures, while building meaningful connections that last. Siobhan champions opportunities for women to expand their networks, develop professionally, and create positive change locally and internationally.