Watch this webinar in collaboration with Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People for an insightful panel discussion with Ronelle Baker ONZM and Anne Hawker ONZM, QSM. In this webinar, Ronelle and Anne share practical advice on navigating pathways to leadership, including how to pursue board opportunities and build confidence in your contribution.
Learn about the expectations and barriers they faced while serving on boards, how to lead with confidence, and how to invest in yourself as a valued contributor. They also discuss what women might consider as they develop their careers towards senior leadership and governance roles.
About the speakers
Ronelle Baker ONZM (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Apakura, Ngāpuhi) is an executive leader with experience across the health, disability, non-profit, and government sectors. She has served as a Commissioner and Board Member of Mana Mokopuna – Children and Young People's Commission, Chair of Spectrum Care, Trustee of Te Roopu Waiora Trust, and Chief Executive of the Muscular Dystrophy Association of New Zealand. Currently Kaihautū Chief Advisor Māori at the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha, Ronelle brings an intersectional lens to her strategic leadership role. She was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in 2026 for services to children and people living with disabilities.
Anne Hawker ONZM, QSM is a disability rights leader whose advocacy journey began with the Mosgiel Abilities Resource Centre and continued through leadership roles with Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand, where she became the first person with multiple sclerosis to serve on the Society's Board. She later served as President of Disabled Persons Assembly New Zealand and was elected the first female President of Rehabilitation International, championing disability rights, accessibility, and inclusion in New Zealand and globally. Anne has continued to influence disability policy through her work as Principal Disability Advisor at the Ministry of Social Development. She was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2021 for services to people with disabilities.