This year’s event was hosted by Petra Bagust, featuring an inspirational panel discussion with Samantha Barrass, Chief Executive of the Financial Markets Authority, and Janine Grainger, founder of Easy Crypto. They were joined by Sister Teresa and Sister Mary, now both in their 80s, who joined Good Shepherd 60 years ago. With nearly 120 years of service between the two of them, they certainly had a lot of wisdom to share. Asked about the trends they have seen in this time, Sister Teresa said,

“there are still the same challenges in society … but women have come into their own. Looking at this gathering, it’s amazing to see how women have advanced”.

100% of the funds donated will go straight to women and girls in need, helping them access essential goods and services such as appliances, groceries, and medical care. Sometimes a small grant can be the thing that keeps someone safe, gives them a break, or makes the difference between spiralling down and looking ahead. Good Shepherd NZ Chief Executive, Tania Pouwhare, says the financial services community’s generosity will make a tangible difference,

“Women’s financial wellbeing is at the core of our work. Too many families in New Zealand are doing it tough. They don’t have enough money for the basics, have no savings to fall back on, and are burdened by debt that is unmanageable or unjust. That harms people and limits their ability to live full lives.”