SallyDunbar
Mrs.Dunbar
GWNZ
10 March 2025. Harnessing Aotearoa NZ's GenZ leadership to confront gender equity barriers. Side event?
YWCA, Pacifica Inc, Te R?p? W?hine M?ori Toko i te Ora (M?ori Women’s Welfare League)
Women and the environment
SDG5 – Gender Equality, SDG 10 – Reduced Inequality, SDG15 – Life on Land, SDG16 – Peace and Justice Strong Institutions
Young Members (2016)
This session strongly aligns with Graduate Women New Zealand’s (GWNZ) national advocacy efforts, particularly in gender equity, indigenous rights, and intergenerational leadership. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges M?ori and Pacific women face, reinforcing GWNZ’s commitment to amplifying diverse voices and advocating for systemic change. The emphasis on language restoration and cultural identity aligns with GWNZ’s focus on education and equity, recognising the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and traditions. The reflections on intergenerational trauma and the role of ancestors in shaping leadership mirror GWNZ’s advocacy for inclusive policies that address historical injustices. Additionally, the recognition of behind-the-scenes leadership and the need to create space for marginalised voices resonates with GWNZ’s mission to empower women across all backgrounds to lead and influence change in their communities.
Session Summary: Harnessing Aotearoa NZ’s Gen Z Leadership to Confront Gender Equity Barriers
Monday, 10 March – Day 1
This powerful session featured young leaders from Pacifica Inc, YWCA, and Te R?p? W?hine M?ori Toko i te Ora (M?ori Women’s Welfare League), sharing their insights on gender equity. Despite Aotearoa New Zealand’s reputation for progress, intersectional challenges persist, particularly for M?ori, Pacific, and ethnic communities. The discussion highlighted resilience, cultural wisdom, and a commitment to social justice.
Key Themes & Reflections from the Gen Z Panel:
• Ancestral Stories & Language Restoration:
The panel spoke of the deep connection to their ancestors, whose stories guide them in reclaiming their language and identity.
• Intergenerational Impact & Historical Cycles:
Displacement, land separation, and systemic barriers continue to affect Indigenous and Pacific communities. Learning from history helps shape a better future.
• Connection to Land & Collective Identity:
The land embodies life force and identity. No one stands alone—each person is interwoven into the collective fabric of their people.
• Responsibility & Shared Goals:
Past struggles remain raw, but there is a duty to acknowledge them while forging shared goals for M?ori and Pacific communities.
• Inspiration from Role Models:
The panelists highlighted Brianna Fruean, a South Pacific advocate for climate justice. Grandparents also played a crucial role in shaping their cultural identity through storytelling and weaving traditions, strengthening intergenerational connections.
• Representation & Language Pride:
Many faced language discrimination, both in the Pacific and New Zealand. The key message: wear your culture and language proudly.
• Leadership Behind the Scenes:
True leadership is about making space for others, ensuring historically silenced voices are heard.
Closing Reflection:
Guided by “Kia whakat?muri te haere whakamua” (I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past), the session reinforced that while Gen Z is paving new paths, their leadership is deeply rooted in ancestral wisdom. They are not just confronting barriers but shaping Aotearoa’s future with purpose.
{How can the session serve GWI members on local. national and/or international levels?:15}
GWNZ could collaborate with Pacifica Inc, YWCA, and Te R?p? W?hine M?ori Toko i te Ora to create intergenerational mentorship opportunities, connecting experienced leaders with emerging Gen Z advocates. Partnering on gender equity advocacy, addressing systemic barriers, and supporting leadership development would enhance representation and policy influence for M?ori and Pacific women. Collaborative community events, scholarships, and leadership programmes can empower young women to step into governance and decision-making spaces. By uniting, all organisations can drive greater change—strength in numbers gives a stronger voice.
