Proudly brought to you by Holland Beckett and YoubeYou – Aotearoa. 

Voices Unplugged: Conversations in Diversity

Featuring the incredible...

National advocates 
Siouxsie Wiles * Michael Barnett * Nanaia Mahuta * Shaneel Lal * Maretha Smit * Helen Jacobi

Local Champions
Buddy Mikaere * Bevan Rakoia * Leesa Speed * Jan Tinetti * Amanda Lowry * Karen Summerhays

Join us for a fun and educational three-part speaker series exploring how diverse, equitable, and inclusive societies boost social advantage and economic growth. 

Inspired by the 'Graham Norton' chat show style, these events feature engaging conversations with guests sharing their journeys in embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

Enjoy heartwarming stories, entertaining chats, and live music from talented diversity-focused musicians.

Date	Presented By	National Advocate	Local Champion
Sept 11	Drag Queen Co-Co Flash  (Creator of Rainbow Storytime NZ)	Siouxsie Wiles (Microbiologist & Science Communicator) Aliya Danzeisen (National head of the Islamic Women's Council of New Zealand)	Bevan Rakoia (Chairperson Pacific Island Community Trust) Leesa Speed (Partner, Holland Beckett)
Oct 16	Drag Queen Co-Co Flash  (Creator of Rainbow Storytime NZ)	Helen Jacobi  (Fmr Vicar of St. Matthew-in-the-City in Auckland) Maretha Smit  (CE. Diversity Works) Michael Barnett  (Fmr Director NZ Chamber of Commerce)	Buddy Mikaere (Historian, author & Fmr Treaty of Waitangi Tribunal Director) Jan Tinetti  (MP and Fmr Minister for Women & Minister for Internal Affairs)
Nov 13	Drag Queen Co-Co Flash (Creator of Rainbow Storytime NZ)	Shaneel Lal  (advocate for LGBTQAI+ & trans rights) Nanaia Mahuta  (author & Fmr Minister of Foreign Affairs)	Amanda Lowry (advocate for disability sector & LGBTQAI+ community supporter)  Karen Summerhays (Social entrepreneur & DEI advisor to Whakatane District Council)

Background 
Global studies show that effective diversity and inclusion strategies boost productivity and well-being. By valuing team members beyond their skills and fostering inclusive ecosystems, organisations enjoy lower turnover, higher innovation, better decisions, and great employee engagement.

Don't miss this chance to be inspired and make a difference!

Our collaboration partners:

• Multicultural Tauranga
• Priority One
• The University of Waikato
• SociaLink Tauranga Moana Tuhono Papori
• Diversity Works

YoubeYou – Aotearoa. 
Formed in 2022, YoubeYou promotes celebrating all ethnicities, cultures, and identities for a progressive society. We curate systems that centre all communities, aiming for a fair, just, and empowering future.

Visit our website for more information : www.youbeyou.org.nz 

Our sponsors
Special thanks to Holland Beckett Lawyers and to our second-tier sponsor Zespri for their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Our fabulous presenter, the fabulous CoCo Flash
CoCo Flash AKA Sunita Torrance, is a trailblazing drag performer and diversity educator who created Rainbow Storytime NZ and founded Haus of Flash. She combines performance art with impactful education, championing LGBTQ+ rights and cultural diversity. Despite facing violence and death threats, Sunita's courage has only strengthened her resolve. Her vibrant storytelling and workshops inspire understanding and acceptance, making CoCo Flash a beacon of empowerment. Sunita's resilience and dedication continue to promote a more inclusive society.

Our national advocates.
Dr. Siouxsie Wiles, a trailblazing New Zealand microbiologist, demystifies science with her groundbreaking bioluminescence research. Her vibrant pink hair and fearless public health advocacy made her a COVID-19 hero. Passionate about diversity, she fights for equal STEM opportunities. Siouxsie's tireless dedication to science and social justice inspires a new generation. Honoured with numerous awards, including Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, she continues to push boundaries and ignite curiosity.

Aliya Danzeisen, a dynamic community leader, champions social justice, diversity, and inclusion. National head of the Islamic Women's Council of New Zealand, she empowers Muslim women and fosters cultural understanding. Aliya's initiatives bridge gaps and inspire youth, guiding the next generation of leaders. With a law and education background, she tackles systemic inequalities and advocates for equitable policies. Honoured with the New Zealand Order of Merit, her passionate work drives a more just and harmonious world.

Rev. Dr. Helen Jacobi, an inspirational Anglican Church leader, fiercely champions social justice, diversity, and inclusion. When vicar of St. Matthew-in-the-City in Auckland, she advocated for women's rights, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and marginalized groups. With Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching, Helen blends academic rigor with compassionate leadership, tackling contemporary issues with faith and ethics. Her interfaith work fosters dialogue and cooperation. Helen's inspiring leadership and numerous accolades reflect her commitment to a just, inclusive society.

Maretha Smit, Chief Executive of Diversity Works New Zealand, leads the charge in fostering inclusive workplaces and championing diversity across all sectors. With a passion for social equity, Maretha provides resources, training, and support to organizations, ensuring every individual feels valued. Her empathetic approach amplifies diverse voices and drives positive change. Under her leadership, Diversity Works has expanded its impact, making Maretha a respected figure in diversity and inclusion advocacy.

Michael Barnett, Fmr Director of New Zealand's Chamber of Commerce, is a visionary leader championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in business. He spearheads initiatives promoting diverse leadership, workforce development, and supplier diversity. Under his guidance, the Chamber fostered equitable opportunities for all businesses. Michael's advocacy empowers underrepresented groups, driving innovation and growth. His strategic, collaborative approach creates sustainable DEI strategies, integrating inclusive practices for economic success and societal well-being.

Shaneel Lal, Young New Zealander of the Year 2023, is a groundbreaking LGBTQAI+ and trans rights advocate. Co-founder of LOVE AOTEAROA, they blend artistry with activism to challenge norms and amplify marginalized voices. Shaneel’s leadership in promoting inclusivity and understanding is unparalleled, fostering dialogue and empowerment. Their work in performance art and storytelling reshapes cultural narratives, earning accolades and inspiring change. Shaneel exemplifies courage and resilience, driving progress towards acceptance and equality for all.

Nanaia Mahuta, Aotearoa New Zealand's former Minister of Foreign Affairs, is a brave pioneer as the first Māori woman in this role. Her leadership shines through her advocacy for indigenous rights, environmental stewardship, and global cooperation. Nanaia's dedication to social justice and empowering marginalized communities bridges cultural divides. With a strategic focus on collaboration and sustainable development, she champions a diverse, inclusive future where every voice is celebrated.

Our inspirational local champions
Buddy Mikaere, a celebrated historian, author, and former Treaty of Waitangi Tribunal Director, champions Māori-Pākehā relations. Founder of He Iwi Kotahi Tauranga Moana Charitable Trust, he emphasizes unity and collective action. Buddy's dedication to justice and reconciliation ensures Tauranga Moana's rich history inspires future generations.

Amanda Lowry, a fierce disability advocate and LGBTQAI+ supporter, turned a life-changing surfing accident into a mission for minority voice and inclusion. Her work aims to break down barriers, promoting equal opportunities and accessible environments. Amanda's resilience and dedication to social justice inspire many, making her a champion for change.

Karen Summerhays is a dynamic leader in community development and social justice. With a Master of Education in Intercultural Dialogue, she excels in public policy and nonprofit management. As a Senior Community Development Advisor in local government, she champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering positive change and inclusive growth.

Jan Tinetti, a dedicated New Zealand politician and advocate for education and social equity, served as the Minister of Internal Affairs, Minister for Women and Minister for Education in the last Labour government. With a background as a school principal, she champions inclusive education and women's rights, striving for equitable opportunities and social justice. Her empathetic leadership uplifts marginalized communities, ensuring all New Zealanders thrive.

Bevan Rakoia, the lively and passionate Chair of The Pacific Island Community Trust, is dedicated to building a better Aotearoa by celebrating cultural diversity and intersectionality. With a zest for life and an infectious energy, Bevan champions the empowerment of Pacific peoples and all Kiwis, fostering unity and understanding through his dynamic leadership and advocacy. He's not just about serious work; Bevan brings joy and a sense of community to every endeavour.

Leesa Speed, is a partner at Holland Beckett, our principal sponsor of these events. Leesa is renowned for her expertise in family law and joined Holland Beckett in 2015 after distinguishing works at major firms in Aotearoa and overseas. Holland Beckett prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, believing that a team enriched by varied perspectives drives innovation and client success. The firm empowers its members through a deep appreciation of diversity, offering a supportive platform for all employees to excel and contribute meaningfully to the legal community.