Rural women and babies at risk
“Women's and babies’ lives are at risk and we want action,” says Penny Mudford, Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) national chair.
They are among 82 finalists in 10 categories shortlisted for the awards dinner on October 24.
Entrants were judged on the impact of their actions and the influence they’ve exerted.
The awards, jointly presented by Westpac NZ and Stuff, attracted 371 nominations in the 10 categories.
The rural finalists are: Ash-Leigh Campbell, chair, NZ Young Farmers board/technical farm manager; Aimee Charteris, managing director, Aimee Charteris Genetics; Jacqui Cottrell, founder, Kiwi Quinoa; Toni Croon, owner, Hotel Chatham; Fiona Gower, national president, Rural Women NZ; Kylie Leonard, regional leader, Dairy Women’s Network; Gina Mohi, trustee, Rangiwewehi Charitable Trust; Lindy Nelson, founder, Agri-Women’s Development Trust; and Chloe Walker, director, Glynleith Farms.
Westpac NZ chief executive David McLean says the huge number and impressive calibre of the nominees this year left the judges with a daunting task to pick the finalists.
“For the last seven years these awards have celebrated the amazing achievements of Kiwi women, and 2019 is no exception. Our finalists showcase the breadth of the inspiring work they’re doing, from the boardroom to the back paddock and everywhere in between,” McLean said.
Each year, a supreme winner is chosen from the 10 category winners. Past recipients include family violence campaigner Jackie Clark (2018), food entrepreneur Cecilia Robinson (2017) and businesswoman Helen Robinson (2016).
The 82 finalists are invited to attend the Women of Influence Day of Celebration in Auckland on October 24, where they can share ideas and discuss challenges and opportunities in their respective fields.
The Women of Influence 2019 winners will be announced at the Awards Dinner at SkyCity that evening.
