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IWD Impact & Progress Evening
24 February 2026
Sky Stadium, Te Whanganui-a-Tara / Wellington
Hosted in partnership with UN Women Aotearoa New Zealand
Join us for an evening of connection and kōrero that goes beyond celebration to action. Building on last year’s sold-out event, this year’s theme, Balance the Scales, challenges leaders to move from advocacy to accountability. Through cross-sector dialogue and practical insight, you’ll explore what it takes to rebalance power, accelerate equity, and create systems where opportunity and influence are shared more evenly.
Why Attend
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Turn insight into strategy by translating global trends in AI, climate, and capital into actionable equity initiatives that drive organisational results
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Build leadership capability through deeper understanding of inclusive decision-making and the behaviours that sustain equity over time
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Drive measurable progress with clear, practical commitments to embed fairness, accountability, and generational impact in your workplace
We’re inviting select partners to join us in advancing equitable, future-ready leadership. Partner with us to support capability development and align your brand with the IWD Impact & Progress Evening.
Contact partnerships@womenleadersinstitute.com to find out more.
Speakers
Agenda
IWD Impact & Progress Evening | Tuesday 24 February 2026
5:10
Welcome Drinks and Canapes
5:40
Welcome Address from UN Women Aotearoa New Zealand
5:45
Emcee Welcome
Cassie Roma, Storyteller | Documentarian | Marketing & Advertising Executive | Kindness Warrior
6:00
PBC Welcome
6:05
Government Keynote: Shaping Aotearoa’s Future: Gender Equity and Intersectional Leadership
6:15
Keynote Panel: The Next Frontiers Leadership
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A look into the global trends shaping women’s opportunities - AI, automation, climate transition, and demographic change
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The next frontier of equity, beyond pay gaps - looking at wealth, influence, and access to capital
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Cross-sector collaboration and how government, corporate, iwi, and community leaders can join forces to accelerate change
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The role of male allies and what genuine partnership looks like in driving systemic impact
Hon. Carmel Sepuloni, Former Deputy Prime Minister and MP for Kelston
Major General Rose King, Chief of Army, NZDF
Megan Main, Chief Executive Officer, ACC
Maya Pan, Director, Product Leader - ex-Meta | ex-Grammarly
7:05
In Conversation: Women Leading for Generational Impact
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The importance of intergenerational thinking and leading with future communities in mind
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The power of legacy leadership and shifting from gatekeeping to opening doors for others
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A call to action for attendees - the bold commitments each leader can make to leave a lasting mark
Dr Hope Tupara, National President, Māori Women's Welfare League
Ruth Raupita, Maangai a rohe – Tainui, Māori Women's Welfare League
7:45
Closing Address