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

Brenda Kinder

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.

Fiona Evans

Originally from Hawke's Bay I moved to Gisborne in 2011 and joined BPW soon after to meet like- minded women.

As part of the BPW Executive I have gained important governance experience as Treasurer, Secretary and Presdient learning from more experienced members.

It is always a highlight to hear from the variety of guest speakers the club attracts and have made lots of friends through my BPW membership.

I am a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years in finance, working for infrastructure, financil services and retail companies in New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Tracy Robinson

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

I enjoy the guest speakers and have made 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 really interesting so when asked to return 3 years later I agreed to do so.

I am currently the manager of Alzheimer's Gisborne Tairawhiti.

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.

Penny Shaw

I've been a BPW Club member since 1993 when I felt I needed to extend my community connections since having children and becoming the permanent tourism and travel tutor at Tairawhiti Polytechnic. My work enabled me to attend the annual national Tourism Conference and provide multiple opportunities to speak publically due to my long term involvement with Tourisum Eastland.

I became 2nd Vice President of the Gisborne BPW Club very quickly, volunteerring my meeting knowledge that led me to be Gisborne BPW Club President for years 1999 and 2000.

The networking helps maintain business contacts. Although retired I am very busy with vounteer work for Gisborne City Vintage Rail and on the BPW committee a third time.