President Janet - March 26

Tena koutou katoa

March 8^th every year is International Women’s Day – there were many events and gatherings of women around the world, in Aotearoa NZ and our BPW NZ members to celebrate this day. This is a day honouring the achievements, strength, and contributions of women across different fields and communities. It is also a moment to reflect on the progress made toward gender equality and to recognize the continued efforts needed to empower women everywhere.

We are pleased to see that the People’s Select Committee highlighted to everyone that injustice cannot be hidden, we all must stand up and shout out when what we fight for, gain traction on, and make massive progress for equality suddenly is taken away from us. I applaud all your efforts in this matter and in many other areas of our society where we see women’s rights are threatened.

In early March in New York, at the 70^th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), women gather from around the world attending parallel and side events, of speakers representing many NGOs as well as BPW countries, to hear about and discuss the challenges still facing women in today’s world. Sadly, we hear that there are less women in attendance due to the inability to travel to the USA. This is due to increasing costs, visa hurdles and conflict in many of the countries where they live. 

BPW International’s survey BPW LISTENS – YOUR VOICE MATTERS, finished on 15^th March. I thank those of you who participated. I believe BPW New Zealand members response rate was approx. 16%. Once I have the analysed data I will share this with you.

World events show us that we are affected in our country by events that happen on the other side of the world. We cannot stay isolated and safe in a little bubble all on our own. Putting our heads in the sand is not an option. We all must continue to speak up about what we believe is the right thing to do.

SAVE THE DATE for our online AGM – Sunday 3^rd May 2026. We need your input and attendance. Each club has delegates appointed to vote on reports and resolutions. I remind you to read and discuss the resolutions ready to vote them into BPW NZ Policy.

Enjoy the Easter holidays, which will soon be upon us. Stay safe and well.

Nga Mihi nui

President Janet