Stepping Up and Stepping Out
Lucky for some (if you were lucky enough to grab tickets before they sold out) - the 13th annual Westpac Women’s Conference is on Friday, 13 June.
We’re thrilled to welcome another exceptional lineup of leaders to Tāhuna, Queenstown. This event is a rare opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, connect with others, and be inspired by those leading with courage and purpose.
This year, we’re especially excited to welcome our first-ever male MC, comedian Tom Sainsbury. If ever I need a bit of a laugh, Tom is my go-to (the Chamber team can vouch for that) – and I’m sure I’m not alone!
His warmth and wit will bring just the right balance to a day of big ideas. As we explore serious topics - leadership, equity, growth - it’s always healthy to remember that laughter and humility are just as important as strategy and ambition.
Our theme this year, “Stepping Up and Stepping Out,” celebrates those who have the courage to create real change - whether on a national stage or in their local communities.
We’re proud to welcome:
- Sinead Boucher, Owner and Publisher of Stuff, whose fearless transformation of New Zealand’s largest media company is a masterclass in purpose-led leadership.
- Dr Ellen Joan Ford, a leadership expert and award-winning author passionate about inclusive workplaces and thriving team cultures.
- Cassie Roma, digital strategist, entrepreneur, and founder of CR&Co, whose creative storytelling and advocacy for kindness and diversity are shaping how businesses connect and grow.
As always, the Queenstown Lakes is brimming with its own inspiring talent. You’ll find many of these local leaders featured in this issue of Women in Business, and I’m proud to work alongside them every day.
A heartfelt thank you to our generous partners - Westpac, Lane Neave, Deloitte, Air New Zealand, Z Energy and Gibbston Valley - for your continued support in growing this incredible event.
Whether at the conference or another Chamber gathering, I hope to see you soon. If we can support your business journey in any way, we’d love to hear from you.
“Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen” – Brene Brown
Ka kite anō
Sharon Fifield, Chief Executive, Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce
