NAWIC We Belong: Panel Discussion

Join NAWIC Te Tau Ihu for an inspiring evening of conversation, connection, and celebration as we mark Suffrage Week and recognize the women who continue to shape our workplaces, industries, and communities.

This year's We Belong campaign celebrates the progress made since the Suffrage movement of 1893 and NAWIC's 30-year legacy of supporting women in construction, while recognizing that there is still important work to do to create opportunities and environments where everyone can thrive.

Kick-start your week with an evening of inspiring stories, practical insights, and genuine conversation. Our panel brings together leaders from business, training, public service, and the infrastructure sector to share their unique journeys, leadership lessons, and reflections on belonging, opportunity, and creating pathways for future generations. Whether you are an emerging professional, business owner, apprentice, trades-person, student, manager, executive, or simply someone who enjoys hearing from remarkable people doing remarkable things...we are confident you'll leave with fresh insights, valuable connections, and plenty of inspiration.

And yes... men are absolutely welcome too! After all, creating workplaces where everyone belongs is a team sport!! Bring a colleague, Bring a friend, Bring your curiosity, Come along, connect with our community, and Leave inspired!! After all, creating a sense of belonging starts with conversations like these. Meet the Panel.. Rachel Boyack: Member of Parliament for Nelson, Spokesperson for Arts, Culture and Heritage, Animal Welfare, Oceans and Fisheries Rachel is the Member of Parliament for Nelson and a passionate advocate for thriving, connected communities.

Drawing on her experience in public service, community development and workforce advocacy, Rachel is committed to creating opportunities for people to succeed and ensuring diverse voices are represented in leadership and decision-making. Aimee McCammon: CEO, Pic's Peanut Butter Aimee, CEO of Pic's Peanut Butter since early 2023, brings extensive leadership and brand-building expertise.

Previously CEO NZ of Augusto Group, she also led Peter Jackson's Park Road Post Production for three years, guiding Oscar-winning creative teams. Her career spans senior roles at Assignment Group, Trade Me, and a successful tenure with Saatchi & Saatchi across Wellington, Auckland, and New York. Lisette Nelson: COO, Scott Construction Ltd. Lisette is the Chief Operating Officer at Scott Construction and a respected leader within the Nelson construction community.

With a career spanning more than three decades across quantity surveying, commercial management, and executive leadership, Lisette brings a wealth of experience, practical insight, and a passion for developing people and creating environments where individuals and teams can do their best work.

Angela Zalewski: BCITO Training Advisor, Women's Champion, Former NAWIC Upper South Chair Angela Zalewski is a passionate advocate for women in the trades and construction sector, serving as a Training Advisor and Women's Champion at BCITO. A former NAWIC Chair, Angela has dedicated much of her career to supporting apprentices, fostering inclusive workplaces, and helping create pathways for more women to enter and thrive in the industry. Through her leadership, mentorship, and community advocacy, she continues to champion positive change and opportunities for the next generation. Together, our panellists represent diverse pathways, experiences, and perspectives, united by a common goal: helping others succeed and creating spaces where people feel We all belong!! Drawing on the national We Belong campaign theme, we'll explore: Breaking New Ground: The courage to step into opportunities, challenge expectations, and forge new paths. Opening Doors & Creating Opportunities: The people who supported us and how we can create opportunities for others.

Legacy, Mentorship & Vision: The impact of leadership, mentorship, and advocacy in creating lasting change. Presence & Belonging: What it means to feel valued, supported, and empowered to contribute your best. Event Programme.. 5:30 PM Networking and refreshments 6:00 PM onwards Panel discussion and audience Q&A Cost: $5 for NAWIC Members, $10 for Non-Members – Not a NAWIC Member? Join today Nibbles and drinks provided: Have dietary requirements? Please let us know and we'll do our best to accommodate them!