i

ASB supports Wāhine Kākano - The New Zealand Young Women's Festival

ASB is proud to support the inaugural Wāhine Kākano - The New Zealand Young Women's Festival, taking place this weekend at Auckland University of Technology (AUT).

The free one-day-event will see 400 young women between the ages of 16 and 22 gather to hear from, and be inspired by, an impressive group of New Zealand women who are at the top of their field, who have overcome challenges, and who are achieving great things.

ASB head of community, sponsorship and events Mark Graham says helping Kiwis progress is really important to ASB and that's why the bank is pleased to be a part of Wāhine Kākano. 

“This event is about empowering and inspiring a new generation of young female thinkers, leaders, and change-makers.  We're proud of the positive lasting impact it will have on those who attend, because we believe it's important to help all Kiwis to get one step ahead in life.”

As part of the Saturday event, ASB is hosting a panel discussion about Authenticity - looking at how one goes about 'just being themselves' while navigating life's important moments. Sitting on the panel is Former Black Ferns Captain and the first female elected to the board of New Zealand Rugby (NZR), Dr Farah Palmer.

“I think it is great that companies invest in young women.  These really are our future leaders, so why not invest in our future?  I also think it is great to teach these young women that social responsibility is something that we not only do as individuals, but as organisations, communities and societies as well.  Many of us spend a large portion of our time within organisations (schools, church, work) and this kind of initiative demonstrates how important it is that corporations/companies demonstrate their responsibility to others - we don't exist in isolation of each other.  We are influenced by those around us, and having big entities like ASB supporting Wāhine Kākano sends a powerful message,” Palmer says. 

“We're thrilled that through our partnership with New Zealand Rugby Dr Farah Palmer is able to be part of the ASB Authenticity panel. Dr Farah Palmer is an inspiration, and we know sharing her experiences, advice and guidance with the young women attending will benefit them greatly,” Graham says.

“I am always keen to encourage other women to pursue their aspirations, and to reach their potential.  I'm at a point in my life where this gives me a lot of satisfaction, and actually inspires me as well (to keep pushing and persuading - I find the optimism and idealism infectious!).  I also want to demonstrate that there are many ways to demonstrate/develop leadership, and that everyone has a different journey - so I am keen to present my story as authentically as I can,” Palmer says.  

Dr Palmer will be joined by fellow speakers, Madeleine Sami, Alex Casey, Meg Annear, Lizzie Marvelly, Dame Susan Devoy, Verity Johnson, Lillian Grace, Rez Gardi, Stacey Morrison, Lexie Matheson, Alice Snedden and Leonie Hayden.

“We're pleased to stand alongside, not only this talented and remarkable line-up of Kiwi women, but also stand in support of the organisers and those attending Wāhine Kākano. We're sure it will be a great day,” Graham says.

Media Centre Media Releases ASB supports Wāhine Kākano - The New Zealand Young Women's Festival