Te Rau Puāwai: launch of MBIE's Māori Women's Network
GWN's Director, Carin Sundstedt, was honoured to be invited to attend the launch of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s first Māori Womens Network – Te Rau Puāwai. It’s believed to be the first one of its kind in the public service.
The network was described by its co-chairs Kaela Harrison and Jasmine Wilson as a kākano (seed) that had grown from leadership training at MBIE. Their vision is to help wāhine Māori at MBIE thrive, grow and prosper. "I loved hearing about the design of the logo and all the elements that it incorporates, and to see such pride in wāhine able to bring their whole selves to work," Carin said.
Carin was really pleased to hear about the strong support from the leadership team. The Head of the Provincial Development Unit, Robert Pigou, sponsor of Te Rau Puāwai said he ‘did not hesitate’ when he was asked to step up as sponsor. He also talked about his own experience of wāhine and the role they have played in leading and strengthening our communities.
MBIE's Chief Executive, Carolyn Tremain, shared the importance of relationships and the reciprocity of this, benefiting all of MBIE.
Special thanks to former GWN DIrector, Liz Chin, for extending the invite for GWN to attend.
GWN's Programme Director, Carin Sundstedt (centre) poses with interim komiti members: Kaela Harrison, Jasmine Wilson, Taina Wilson and Kate Te Morenga.