The programme for Whiria Ngā Kaha 2026 is taking shape, with several of Aotearoa’s most influential voices confirmed for the two-day conference in May.

Economist Shamubeel Eaqub, co-author of Social Cohesion in New Zealand report written from research commissioned by the Helen Clark Foundation, will be the opening keynote speaker.

He will explore how macro-economic policies impact workplace inclusion, trust and social cohesion in New Zealand. The session will also unpack what this means for delivering fair futures for everyone.

Microbiologist Siouxsie Wiles, who became a familiar face for New Zealand households as a leading science communicator during the Covid-19 pandemic, will speak to how misogyny online directly affects women’s professional lives and leadership pathways, sharing her own experiences. Associate Professor Dr Suze Wilson, a senior lecturer at Massey University’s School of Management, will facilitate alongside Siouxsie in this session that confronts the organisational impact of online misogyny and asks: How can workplaces dismantle the structures that allow women’s voices to be diminished?

Looking globally, Diversity Council Australia CEO Catherine Hunter will present her organisation’s Class Inclusion at Work research, which highlights how social class significantly impacts workplace inclusion. Some of the key findings she will discuss show that class-marginalised workers face barriers to networks and career opportunities, experience less inclusive teams, and feel they must "mask" their background to advance. 

Keep an eye on the conference website for more speaker announcements.

Priority registration for conference is available until 31 January – secure your place now.