Host: Southern Government Women’s Network

Venue: Customhouse, Orchard Road, Christchurch

Date: 31 May 2018

What happens when a group of very enthusiastic group of women across a range of border agencies: Customs, MPI, MBIE and Aviation Security get together in Christchurch to work out what next, following a hugely successful Speed Mentoring Event?

It leads to the launch of the Southern Government Women’s Network.

On Thursday 31 May, 71 women and men from 16 government agencies arrived at Customhouse in Christchurch to celebrate the launch of the Southern Government Women’s Network (SGWN) and to be inspired by four guest speakers: Roberta Bosman and Kesta Dennison from Customs, Ginny Rhodes, Executive Manager for Dress for Success Christchurch, and Di Foster, Foster Wellness, a health and wellness speaker and coach.

 

SGWN team launch
Ginny Rhodes speaks at SGWN launch
 

 

Agencies attending included:

  • NZ Customs
  • Land Information New Zealand
  • Aviation Security
  • Fire and Emergency
  • Ministry for Primary Industries
  • Biosecurity NZ
  • Oranga Tamariki
  • NZ Transport Agency
  • Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment 
  • NZ Police
  • Department of Internal Affairs
  • NZ Post
  • Inland Revenue
  • Environment Canterbury
  • Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet
  • Ministry of Justice

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and demonstrates the success of linking across government agencies to create a strong network within the South Island.

"It was a fantastic launch. Well done you and the committee."

 

"It was amazing!! So grateful for the opportunity to attend"

 

"Thank you so much for organising tonight. Was so good and have definitely taken a lot away from it."

 

What’s next for the Southern GWN Committee?

A further speed mentoring event is being arranged, and there is enthusiasm to hold further events, including aspiring to hold a Public Sector Summit for Women in the South Island. Watch this space!

If you would like to join Southern GWN and our mailing list, please email GWN, with 'Southern GWN' in the subject field. We welcome feedback and suggestions.

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