Berlinda Chin joined the Ministry in August 2021 and is the Deputy Chief Executive for Strategic Engagement and Stakeholder Insights. She previously held senior roles in the Office of Ethnic Communities, including Director, and has built a career focused on diversity, multiculturalism, and social cohesion. Her experience includes Strategic Specialist on Ethnic Communities at the State Services Commission, Private Secretary to two Ministers with Ethnic Communities portfolios, Intercultural Advisory Manager at the Office of Ethnic Affairs, and Chief Advisor to the Chief Executive of Ethnic Communities. She was also Head of Community Engagement for the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historical Abuse in State Care. Berlinda brings deep insight into the opportunities and challenges shaping New Zealand’s Ethnic Communities and social cohesion landscape. She is known for her sound judgement, strong stakeholder relationships, and collaborative leadership. An empathetic and values-driven leader, she champions diverse perspectives and is committed to inclusive outcomes that uphold the dignity and mana of communities across Aotearoa New Zealand

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.

Mumtaz Parker is Head of Corporate Services at Water New Zealand, where she leads corporate services, digital transformation, membership, marketing and event initiatives across the water sector. She recently completed her MBA at Massey University and is passionate about leadership, inclusion, and developing future-ready leaders who can navigate complexity, embrace change, and create opportunities for others.

Mumtaz is also the author of Betting on a Hijabi, exploring identity, resilience, and leadership as a Muslim woman navigating professional spaces. Through her work and writing, she advocates for inclusive leadership and creating opportunities for underrepresented voices to thrive.