CATEGORY WINNER - TRU WOMAN OF THE YEAR NZ

Theresa Gattung is a renowned leader and women's empowerment advocate known for being a former CEO of Telecom NZ (now Spark) and co-founder of My Food Bag. Her influence extends across New Zealand's business realm, founding innovative ventures like Compatico and chairing Tend in health services. A committed philanthropist, Theresa introduced Coralus (formerly SheEO) to New Zealand, empowering female entrepreneurs. Her passion for animal welfare led her to chair the Wellington SPCA and serve on the national board. In 2021, she funded the Theresa Gattung Chair of Women in Entrepreneurship at the University of Auckland Business School. She launched the Gattung Foundation, whose main charitable purposes are to support the relief of poverty, the education and advancement of women, Māori, and Pasifika to reduce inequality and the care, support, and protection of animals. Theresa’s contributions have earned her numerous honours, including induction into the NZ Business Hall of Fame in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours and promotion to Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to women, governance and philanthropy.

CATEGORY WINNER - THE RYDGES CHANGE-MAKER OF THE YEAR NZ

Dr Assil Russell is a specialist endodontist and a dedicated humanitarian. She founded ICARE in 2010, providing surgeries and aid to orphans and widows in Iraq and annually volunteers on the ground. In 2011, she started Revive a Smile, New Zealand’s only dental charity for underserved Kiwis. As clinical director, she manages a mobile clinic serving low-income adults nationwide, offering free dental care and oral health education. Her advocacy includes speaking at significant venues and educational seminars. A distinction graduate of the University of Otago, she’s also recognised for academic excellence.

CATEGORY WINNER - A WOMAN’S TOUCH INSPIRATIONAL WOMAN

Victoria Crockford leads the Coalition to End Women's Homelessness, advocating for important policy and funding reforms. Her activism started 15 years ago at Wellington Women's Refuge, driven by the need for safe housing for women escaping abuse. As former CEO of Community Housing Aotearoa, she addressed housing crises affecting older women and young mothers. Victoria also tackles energy and hardship issues and is a member of the Queenstown Lakes District Council's Climate and Biodiversity Reference Group. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Arts Access Aotearoa, enhancing arts inclusivity for disabled individuals and those in corrections and is a Director at nationwide consultancy Heft Communications.

CATEGORY WINNER - FOWLER HOMES ENTREPRENEURIAL WOMAN

Heidi Renata, Co-founder and CEO of INNOV8HQ, is acclaimed for her pioneering impact on technology innovation and community empowerment across New Zealand and internationally. As a leading tech sector figure representing 3% of its workforce, Heidi brings a distinctive indigenous perspective to business leadership. With over 25 years in prominent roles at Vodafone NZ and entrepreneurial projects worldwide, she is renowned as a dynamic global keynote speaker, lauded for her award-winning youth programmes such as Mana Rangatahi, Konaki, and Manawanui Scholarships. Named Otago Daily Times Business Leader of the Year, Heidi has fostered 1000 startups and guided 500 youth leadership pathways, envisioning a future where innovation and inclusivity drive societal change.

CATEGORY WOMAN - RAY WHITE COMMUNITY WOMAN

Juanita Willems runs Foster Hope Otago, a volunteer charity that provides essential support to children in foster care and other vulnerable children across the community. Raised in foster care herself and now blind due to a child abuse injury, Juanita’s personal experience fuels her drive and passion. She ensures children in foster care receive clothing, essentials, and toys for Christmas, ensuring every child knows someone cares about them. Juanita also coordinates the Blind Citizens Otago Network, providing advocacy support to blind individuals. She won Resilient Woman at the Inspirational Woman Awards 2022.

CATEGORY WINNER - MOUNTAIN SCENE RESILIENT WOMAN

Louisa Patterson, a pioneering figure in Queenstown's aviation industry, has transformed personal tragedy into a mission to enhance aviation safety. Following the devastating loss of her son, James, in a helicopter accident, Louisa developed the Eye in the Sky cockpit audio, video, and flight data recorder system. This groundbreaking innovation aims to prevent similar tragedies and improve aviation safety standards. Her relentless dedication earned her the 2021 Airbus Helicopters Innovation in Rotary Aviation Safety Award, highlighting her significant contributions to the field.

CATEGORY WINNER- PEOPLE’S CHOICE NATIONAL

Britney Pringle, Miss Auckland 2023, uses her title to inspire young wāhine to pursue their dreams. An advocate for Brave NZ, she works with the organisation to educate our communities and prevent sexual harm among rangitahi. This is through school visits and fundraising, striving to secure a safer future for young New Zealanders. Britney also supports Breast Cancer NZ, raising awareness and funds for this cause. She contributes to environmental sustainability through Perfectly Imperfect, an initiative focused on reducing food waste and supporting those in need. She is dedicated to societal and environmental well-being, serving as a voice for change and a source of inspiration for our young people.

CATEGORY WINNER - PEOPLE’S CHOICE OTAGO

Sally Woods is the owner and senior instructor at Fierce Grace Hot Yoga Queenstown, a studio reopened on a smaller scale after the initial large-scale opening was impacted by COVID-19. Despite the challenges, including closing the original studio due to lockdowns, Sally's business lives on.

Sally is also the 2023/24 Yoga Lululemon Ambassador, a role through which she supports mental health and the LGBTQIA2+ community. She has held numerous events promoting inclusivity and wellbeing.

FINALIST - WOMAN OF THE YEAR NZ

Ashleigh Hoeta is New Zealand’s top female powerlifter and arm wrestling champion, holding the world record with a 317.5kg bench press. Her path included overcoming a stroke in 2020 and caring for her terminally ill father, all while excelling as a mother and athlete. In 2021, she fulfilled a promise to her father by becoming New Zealand's leading female powerlifter. After his passing in 2023, she honoured his memory by winning the New Zealand Arm Wrestling Nationals and setting a new bench press record, becoming the first woman in the world to ever bench press over 300kg. She continues to hold this title. Ashleigh is dedicated to her community, working with I AM HOPE and advocating for mental health in schools.

FINALIST - WOMAN OF THE YEAR NZ

Dahlia Malaeulu is an award-winning Pasifika author, publisher, and founder of Mila’s Books. She leads the world’s only all-Pasifika publishing team of children’s books that produce stories that reflect Pasifika values, languages, and cultures, ensuring tamaiti feel seen and valued. Dahlia has published over 90 Pasifika voices and shares the power of Pasifika stories with 10,000 tamaiti annually. Her accolades include New Zealand’s Emerging Publisher of the Year 2023, Creative New Zealand Arts Pasifika Emerging Pacific Artist Award and Wellington Pasifika Business Woman of the Year Award. Dahlia also mentors Pasifika businesses and first-time authors while championing reading and sustainable pathways for Pasifika storytellers across Aotearoa.

FINALIST - WOMAN OF THE YEAR NZ

Krissy Mackintosh founded HEAR4U, a charity focused on men’s mental health and suicide prevention in Te Tairāwhiti, after losing ten men to suicide. Together with co-founders Renee Grant and Jo Ware, Krissy offers hope and support, providing clinical and holistic care to the community. Despite cultural biases and funding challenges, HEAR4U has made significant strides, engaging over 3,500 participants in events like the Taupo Half Marathon to raise awareness. Krissy’s personal experiences drive her commitment to improving mental health support and reducing suicide rates in her region.

FINALIST- CHANGE-MAKER OF THE YEAR NZ

Agnes Guda is a dedicated community servant involved with multiple organisations, including the Ministry for Ethnic Communities and UN Women Aotearoa NZ. Since 2008, she has advocated for social inclusiveness and multiculturalism. Agnes’s work, which includes roles as a Justice of the Peace and volunteer, focuses on aiding women and youth with domestic violence and mental health issues. Her efforts, such as the Learner-Driver Mentoring Programme and support for Christchurch mosque shooting victims, have earned her several awards, including the Christchurch City Council Civic Awards' Emerging Leader Award and the Selwyn District Council’s Gold Award for Community Volunteering.

FINALIST- CHANGE-MAKER OF THE YEAR NZ

Britney Pringle, Miss Auckland 2023, uses her title to inspire young wāhine to pursue their dreams. An advocate for Brave NZ, she works with the organisation to educate our communities and prevent sexual harm among rangitahi. This is through school visits and fundraising, striving to secure a safer future for young New Zealanders. Britney also supports Breast Cancer NZ, raising awareness and funds for this cause. She contributes to environmental sustainability through Perfectly Imperfect, an initiative focused on reducing food waste and supporting those in need. She is dedicated to societal and environmental well-being, serving as a voice for change and a source of inspiration for our young people.

FINALIST- CHANGE-MAKER OF THE YEAR NZ

Kristyl Neho uplifts youth through her Maia Dreams and The Confident Me Program initiatives. Over 14 years, she has supported over 18,000 individuals across 59 schools and 30 organisations, offering resources and a safe space for rangatahi to build confidence and tackle mental health challenges. Despite funding hurdles, Kristyl is dedicated to developing journals, online programs, and educational materials fostering resilience. She’s also organized 40+ events, authored children's books, and composed songs, touching thousands more. Kristyl tours New Zealand with her show "Tangihanga" and is completing her "Confident Me" book series.

FINALIST- CHANGE-MAKER OF THE YEAR NZ

Tayyaba Khan champions peace and rights for marginalised communities, focusing on women and minorities. As founder of the Khadija Leadership Network and a board member of Belong Aotearoa, she has spent 15 years supporting minority women, especially those from Muslim backgrounds, against domestic violence. Tayyaba's efforts include collaborating with Islamic clerics on religious divorce issues and enhancing culturally appropriate domestic violence services. Her impactful work earned her the Sonja Davies Peace Award in 2005, recognising her significant contributions to social justice and community support.

FINALIST - ENTREPRENEURIAL WOMAN

Karla Sanders, founder of Sticks ’n Stones, is revolutionising bullying prevention through her youth-led organisation. Since 2013, she has empowered over 6,000 young individuals in Central Otago and beyond, mentoring them to tackle bullying confidently and skillfully. Karla's unwavering commitment has evolved Sticks ’n Stones from a local initiative into an internationally acclaimed charity, dedicating thousands of hours to ensure youth voices lead the way. Her efforts have shaped the organisation and significantly impacted bullying prevention nationwide, making a lasting difference in the community. Photo by Image Central.

FINALIST - COMMUNITY WOMAN

Carol Morgan is a legal advocate and leader in Queenstown's community, known for her kindness and compassion. She promotes inclusivity, tackling issues like employment and housing. As a mental health facilitator at the Headlight Trust, Carol's workshops and support services provide a lifeline for those struggling. She loves bringing people together through events like the annual Latino Festival, celebrating cultural diversity with music, dance, and food. Founder of Women's Circle New Zealand and Latinos for New Zealand Charitable Trust, Carol supports marginalised communities and fosters cultural exchange. Her award-winning community work and "walk the talk" approach make her a force for positive social change.

FINALIST - INSPIRATIONAL WOMAN

Anna Dorsey has been a cornerstone of community wellbeing in Queenstown since 2008. A public health professional, she's led important campaigns promoting regular health screenings and improved health outcomes nationwide wellness. In response to COVID-19, Anna shifted her focus to mental health, volunteering to establish the Southern Wellbeing Charitable Trust and played a key role in initiating the GoodYarn Community Pilot, which brought mental health education to hundreds of people in priority communities. In 2022, she founded Headlight Trust to continue this work, successfully expanding mental health education and introducing initiatives to help communities support their mental wellbeing. Overall, the community programme increased the mental health knowledge and skills of nearly 500 community members in 2 years. These efforts created a new model for supporting mental health in communities and fostered a network of supporters, making it easier for people to look after their mental health and support those around them who were struggling.

FINALIST - INSPIRATIONAL WOMAN

Carmen Doran is CEO of Helius Therapeutics, New Zealand's medicinal cannabis pioneer. Under her leadership, Helius has been supplying Kiwi patients with NZ-grown, NZ-made medicines since 2021 whilst championing change to make the medicine more affordable and accessible to patients who need it. Carmen's strategic acumen has advanced research, development, and production, positioning New Zealand globally. Her efforts have set Helius up for expansion into Europe, South America, and Australia. Carmen champions female representation in often male-dominated areas, such as motorsport, BMX and football. She inspires others through public speaking and sharing her experiences, significantly impacting the industry and community. She recently won the Inspiring Women Leaders category at The New Zealand International Business Awards.

FINALIST - ENTREPRENEURIAL WOMAN

Joan Kiernan, with over twenty years in management, accounting, and banking in the UK and Hong Kong, moved to Queenstown in 2001. Since then, she has significantly contributed to various businesses and non-profit organisations. As a partner in a wealth management business for over ten years, Joan brought her expertise to the financial sector. She served eight years on the Board of Community Trust South, and has held numerous leadership roles in Rotary locally and at District level. Joan was the first female President of the Queenstown Rotary Club, is a past District Governor and is currently Rotary Foundation Chair for the South Island. Joan was among the founding members of Impact100 and Chaired the Grants Committee for four years. She has been a Trustee of the Wakatipu Community Foundation since 2022 and is currently Deputy Chair.

FINALIST - RESILIENT WOMAN

Since migrating to New Zealand in 2020, Anna Wang has been a supporter of the Chinese migrant community. Understanding the challenges migrants face, Anna helps them integrate, fostering connections and aiding cultural adjustment. She translates important information, manages the Queenstown Chinese Community Facebook Group, and coordinates community involvement in local events like the Arrowtown Festival and Chinese New Year celebrations. Anna organised support for an injured Chinese woman, ensuring she received the necessary care and meals—this year, she joined Headlights Trust to help develop a new mental well-being programme for Asian migrant communities.

FINALIST - COMMUNITY WOMAN

From a family dedicated to giving back, Juliet Fraser has embodied this spirit through her life and business, Hot Property Queenstown. She started the business as a solo parent seeking independence and quality time with her sons, Ashar and Nazih, who remain her greatest pride and volunteered as teenagers in Tanzania and Nepal. Fourteen years later, Hot Property supports numerous causes discreetly, including donating a safe night for every booking to honour her son’s friend Allanah, who was tragically lost in an accident. During COVID-19, Juliet transformed herself and became a weight loss coach, inspiring women to prioritize their health. She is now finalizing her certification as a mental health coach, focusing on addiction, driven by a need for effective support in this area. Her commitment extends beyond her business; Juliet practices daily kindness, inspiring those around her with a message to always face challenges head-on and keep smiling.

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AWARDS NZ -MEDALIST

Sabrina Faruk, Mrs Universe New Zealand 2023, is a passionate advocate for domestic violence victims and foster children. A survivor herself and a single mother of three, Sabrina uses her platform to empower those facing similar struggles. Her extensive advocacy includes supporting the Breast Cancer Society and Foster Hope NZ through fundraising, educational efforts, and direct aid. Sabrina also organises collections for women's refuges and Christmas donations for children, embodying strength and compassion. Her impactful work earned her the Miss Universe Kindness 2023 award, highlighting her significant contributions to community welfare.

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AWARDS NZ -MEDALIST

Following a head injury as an 18-year-old, Mel Abbott spent 11 years on an invalid benefit with chronic fatigue and pain. Now, Mel is an entrepreneur revolutionising the medical community by proving that chronic illnesses can be cured through mindset and stress reduction. Her programme, The Switch, has achieved 80% success rate, offering hope to those deemed incurable by their doctors. Mel's workshops have transformed the lives of thousands, including those suffering from Chronic Fatigue. Her work has earned her invitations to present at National GP Medical Conferences, where she was awarded Best Speaker twice. Mel's commitment extends globally through her webinars and "The Recovery Project," highlighting recovery stories.

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AWARDS NZ -MEDALIST

Taryn Dryfhout is an educator, author, and advocate. Despite facing numerous chronic illnesses and disabilities, Taryn has tirelessly pursued her passion for education and community service. A mother of four, including three adopted siblings, she ensures they grow up with a strong sense of their Māori culture and identity. As a secondary school teacher, Taryn sets high expectations for her students while managing her health challenges. She also volunteers with her iwi, contributing to cultural preservation. Her academic achievements include multiple degrees and ongoing PhD research on Māori adoption.

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AWARDS NZ -MEDALIST

Gouri Sharma migrated from India to New Zealand at a young age. She overcame numerous hardships, including cultural adjustments and financial struggles. Despite these challenges, Gouri pursued academic excellence, earning a master’s degree in business management. Her professional success in a prestigious bank highlights her competence in the traditionally male-dominated finance sector. Passionate about aviation, Gouri’s pursuit of flying planes symbolises her adventurous spirit and desire to empower women. Actively participating in community initiatives focused on women's empowerment and gender equality, Gouri mentors girls, organises workshops and supports educational initiatives for underprivileged students in India

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AWARDS NZ -MEDALIST

Tanya Nock, founder of Cultural Conversations in Nelson, New Zealand, creates kinship and connection among refugees and migrants, leveraging her diverse family background. Tanya hires and mentors New-to-New-Zealanders in various roles and business startups through her initiative. Her work supports individuals from over 20 countries, fostering cultural expression and integration. Tanya organises cultural events, women-only nights, and crafting sessions and runs The Global Stitch Up, a social enterprise that equips women with retail and marketing skills. Her efforts provide an important support network for Nelson's large refugee population.

Rebecca Macey owns Busy Bumbles, an award-winning Before and After School Care and Holiday Programme provider with 18 sites across Christchurch and Dunedin. Starting nearly 15 years ago with just one venue, her mission as an educator and mother was to offer affordable, flexible childcare. Now employing over 100 team members, Busy Bumbles is celebrated for its diversity and inclusivity, recognised by the Ministry of Social Development as a best practice model. Rebecca's commitment extends to specialised programs for children with additional needs, free care for at-risk children, and a bilingual venue, greatly benefiting the local community.

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AWARDS NZ -MEDALIST

Andrea Balona is an advocate for human and animal welfare in Queenstown. Originally from South Africa, Andrea battled breast cancer before founding QT Community Cats during the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aims to rescue and rehabilitate domesticated cats, reduce feral cat populations, and protect endangered species. As the recent ambassador for The Cancer Society Queenstown Relay For Life, she continues to inspire and lead. Her organisation, QT Community Cats, runs a variety of pet therapeutic well-being and educational programs for our diverse community members.

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AWARDS NZ -MEDALIST

After overcoming chronic fatigue, Chenin Madden has committed herself to assisting others in navigating their emotions and understanding the mind-body connection, especially women. Chenin has contributed countless hours to her community by organising free events and facilitating connections with local services. She founded and manages the Queenstown Wellbeing Directory, a free comprehensive resource listing all Wakatipu region's wellbeing services. Chenin is currently compiling a book titled "Women in Wellbeing of Aotearoa," which showcases 55 women across various well-being domains. All proceeds from the book will benefit Women’s Refuge New Zealand.

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AWARDS NZ -MEDALIST

Abby Golden, a dedicated ICU nurse at Dunedin Hospital, combines compassionate patient care with active volunteer work at Sticks ’n Stones, a bullying prevention organisation. At age 22, Abby has devoted her life to developing programs that enhance social and emotional learning for Otago students since she was.14 years old. She believes in empowering young people to create positive social change in their communities. To do this, she creates resources to combat online harm and has helped develop award-winning support tools. Beyond local initiatives, Abby represents the organisation at national and international forums, advocating for youth involvement in policy and governance, showcasing her commitment to nurturing and protecting young lives, and championing inclusivity and kindness.

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AWARDS NZ -MEDALIST

Eleanor Dunn, an intercalated MbChb/BMedSc(Hons) student, is an exemplary figure in both academia and community service. She has earned prestigious accolades, including the Professor Henry Krum Scholarship (2024) and the Otago Medical School Research Scholarship (2023). Eleanor's leadership is evident through her roles as Vice President and Treasurer of the Student Volunteer Army Otago, dedicating over 500 hours to volunteer service. She is secretary for the Dunedin branch of Myalgic Encephalitis Information and Support Services, supporting individuals with chronic illnesses. Her dedication extends to tutoring, mentoring, and community engagement.