Our Executive Members

BPW Gisborne is a professional networking group made up of inspiring and motivated women who are determined to make a difference. Our members are committed to creating a positive impact in the community, helping each other to succeed and pushing boundaries to achieve great things. Learn about some of them below

Tracy Robinson
president

I joined BPW in 2016 because I wanted to meet more women in the workforce.

 

As a member of BPW, I enjoyed the guest speakers and began to make invaluable contacts within the club, some of them growing into special friendships.

 

One of the ways I found most helpful to get to know people was to get involved in events. I was on the executive a few years ago and found that interesting so when asked to return 3 years later I agreed to do so. Following the next 3 years as secretary, I accepted the nomination to be club president. I was duly elected to a position at is challenging but very enjoyable.

 

I am currently the manager of Alzheimers Gisborne Tairawhiti.

Brenda Kinder
immediate past president

Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, I came to New Zealand in 2001 thanks to my kiwi Husband and quickly settled into this amazing community.

 

I joined BPW a few years ago to meet new people and be inspired by likeminded women.

 

One of the things I enjoy is being part of a great organisation.

 

BPW has helped me gain confidence in my leadership skills and to get involved by joining the executive committee.

Karyn Anderson
secretary

I joined BPW after attending a wonderful event with Peta Mathias and was soon invited to a dinner meeting, where I realised it was exactly the kind of organisation I was looking for to broaden my community and be inspired by other women.

 

Last year I stepped into the role of Secretary on the Executive Committee and am now fully involved, really enjoying the inspiring speakers, strong connections, and supportive network of successful women who uplift each other.

 

Balancing a full-time role in Real Estate, running an Airbnb, and being a busy mum keeps life full, so a night out with the BPW club feels like a real treat

Diane Taylor

I whakapapa to the Taranaki region but as an adult worked and owned a number successful businesses in Wellington.

 

In December 2007, I moved to Gisborne just a few weeks before a major earthquake. ​I first became involved with the Gisborne BPW club as a result of invititions from other like-minded business women and enjoyed the vibrant and informative dinner meetings and speakers.

 

In 2012 I became a member and have since held a range roles on the BPW executive at various times. On joining I had been the Regional Manager and Training Consultant for Industry Training Solutions NZ.

 

However in 2012 I became the joint owner of Survey Gisborne Ltd where my main focus is now fully engaged.

Tasj Paulson

I’ve been a member for 20 years of BPW Gisborne, there are so many reasons why I find myself renewing my membership annually.

 

​BPW provides a great opportunity to mingle and network with likeminded women, from the diverse and dynamic speakers to hearing the Kaupapa of our members. 

 

When I reflect on my 20 years with BPW, I initially was terrified that these amazing women would ask me to speak in front of them.  However, BPW is a safe space, to learn, grow and support one another. 

 

I  own Gisborne Hydaulics, and find my daily interactions are mainly with men.  I look forward to the monthly dinners and the manaakitanga.

 

Sophie Wirepa

Kia ora, I’m a small business owner who started BPW when my first son was 6 weeks old or so.  I had a client who said BPW would be a great way for me to network and find new old returning clients to my clinic.

 

I have found in my 18 years in BPW lovely friendships, a space to grow my very nervous introverted personality and become more confident.

 

The business, life lessons and inspiration stories I have heard over the years have kept me returning. I may only be a knife and forks member, but there are so many opportunities available within the club to be proactive, to be a voice for others and make positive changes become a reality.

 

 

Anna-Maree Colvin

I joined BPW Gisborne in 2008 and have been an active and involved member during my time.

 

As a primary school teacher, I wanted to meet new people and be inspired by like-minded women. Since becoming a member, I have gained great friendships with a diverse range of ladies and found a space where I have been able to grow both personally and professionally.

 

BPW Gisborne is a great organisation that provides a supportive network of women who encourage and uplift one another. One of the things I enjoy most is the diverse range of speakers at our dinner meetings, who bring new ideas, experiences, and perspectives. Being part of BPW has been a rewarding experience and an important part of my personal and professional journey.

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