How long have you been a NAWIC member?

10 years

What is your current job/role in the construction sector?

Senior Quantity Surveyor

Briefly describe your aspirations for this role and the initiatives or steps you would implement as President of NAWIC:

As NAWIC President, I’d focus on making real, practical changes that genuinely help women in construction while ensuring our members feel they’re getting real value for their membership. My priorities would be building stronger industry partnerships to open up more career opportunities, improving mentorship with better structure and support, and ensuring financial sustainability through smart sponsorships. With my industry experience and commercial insight, I want to make NAWIC a stronger, more influential voice that drives real progress for women at all levels in construction. 

What are you most passionate about in the construction sector, and how do you envision contributing value to NAWIC and its members?

I’m passionate about making construction more efficient, financially sustainable, and full of real career opportunities for women. As a Senior Quantity Surveyor, I see how smart commercial decisions shape both projects and careers. For NAWIC, I’d focus on practical, results-driven initiatives—stronger mentorship, more leadership pathways, and advocacy for real change in the industry. By leveraging my expertise in financial strategy and project management, I’d help drive structured, high-impact initiatives that support members at every level, ensuring NAWIC is a strong, influential voice for women in construction.

Nominator endorsement

Kirsty Hopewell is an outstanding leader dedicated to empowering women in construction. As Canterbury Chapter Chair, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, fostering a supportive and inclusive community. Her passion, integrity, and ability to inspire others make her a respected mentor and advocate for women at all career stages. Kirsty’s commitment to driving meaningful change and creating opportunities for growth ensures she is well-equipped to lead NAWIC into its next chapter. Her unwavering dedication, adaptability, and vision make her the ideal candidate for President Elect.

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

5+ years

What is your current job/role in the construction sector?

• Senior Construction Project Manager;
• Project Delivery Manager at the Ministry of Education – Capital and Major Works and Infrastructure;
• Chair of Women in Project Management PMINZ;
• Women in Leadership at the Ministry of Education; Sustainability and Decarbonization Expert;
• Part-Time Lecturer at AUT – Construction Management and Construction Economics

Briefly describe your aspirations for this role and the initiatives or steps you would implement as President of NAWIC:

As President, I aim to redefine NAWIC's role from a support network to a true force for industry-wide change. With a proven track record in leading major infrastructure projects, mentoring women in construction, and delivering award-winning sustainability initiatives, I will champion systemic transformation.

My focus is on strategic advocacy for policy shifts in gender equity, including making it a requirement during the tender process for government projects to procure suppliers that have women in their teams. Additionally, I am committed to improving workplace safety for women in construction. I will strengthen our impact by expanding targeted mentorship programs, increasing professional development opportunities, and raising the visibility of women in the industry. Supporting female students is also a priority—I aim to provide meaningful connections within the industry to help them build successful careers. By combining bold vision with practical action, I am committed to breaking down barriers for all women in construction and driving lasting change.

What are you most passionate about in the construction sector, and how do you envision contributing value to NAWIC and its members?

My passion lies in transforming construction from a traditionally male-dominated industry to a diverse, innovative ecosystem where talent knows no gender boundaries. I'm deeply committed to breaking down systemic barriers and creating pathways for women to thrive at every career stage. Through NAWIC, I aim to drive meaningful change by developing targeted mentorship programs, advocating for equitable workplace practices, and showcasing the extraordinary capabilities of women in construction. By amplifying our collective voice, challenging outdated norms, and creating tangible opportunities, we can reshape the industry's culture, inspire the next generation of female leaders, and demonstrate that diversity drives excellence.

Nominator endorsement

Olga Lozova is a visionary leader and a dedicated advocate for women in construction. With extensive experience managing complex projects and leading diverse teams, she combines technical expertise with a passion for mentoring and empowering women at all career stages. Her initiative in establishing the Women in Project Management group at PMINZ and her commitment to connecting students with industry opportunities demonstrate her drive to create meaningful change. Olga’s global perspective, strategic leadership, and dedication to innovation make her the ideal candidate to lead NAWIC into its next chapter. Her leadership will undoubtedly strengthen NAWIC’s impact and inspire the next generation of women in construction.

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

One year

What is your current job/role in the construction sector?

Executive Leader, Board Director, Technical Fellow Strategic Asset Management

Briefly describe your aspirations for this role and the initiatives or steps you would implement as President of NAWIC:

I believe in an equitable world where women are empowered to succeed and lead enriched lives, this is so important in our own construction industry, I aspire to uphold our NAWIC vision and seek to break down barriers in our communities of practice.  I offer my skills, dedication and time to support women to feel empowered, to be respected, be included and achieve equity within our sector.  This aspiration takes many forms and my strengths are in advocacy, education and leadership which I would utilise to support our women to grow and prosper. Some of the ways I intend to do this include:

• Speaking on behalf of those who may not currently be heard. 
• Advocacy within our centres and regions, this is a far reaching and extensive sector.
• Programme development for our women in leadership and progression management
• Facilitating the creation of scholarships and/or educational opportunities.
• Growing and maintaining relationships with influencers and government. 
• Creating events and forums for women to be seen, heard and shine.

These are all important aspects of what I would seek to implement with the support of my NAWIC board.  

What are you most passionate about in the construction sector, and how do you envision contributing value to NAWIC and its members?

I am most passionate about seeing women and our members succeed.  I wish for women in our construction industry to feel respected, have a sense of belonging, and have pathways to success, to feel empowered and fulfilled in life.  I arrived with my family seeking refuge and a better life in New Zealand. I have had to strive for inclusion and create my own path towards belonging and success.  My own experience drives me, it is the fire that fuels my passion for helping others achieve the same and more.  I contribute value in many ways, but mostly because I care about people, I have a loyalty to people and causes I care about.  My work career and my governance experience is extensive at the national level. I have honed these skills to be an authentic governance leader who leads her board with integrity and passion. My members and communities know that I am ethical, action orientated, deliberate and respectful in my stewardship of an organisation.  I bring this care and attention to NAWIC.      

Nominator endorsement

Priyani de Silva Currie is a visionary and compassionate leader who is deeply committed to supporting women in construction. Her warm and inclusive approach fosters a positive work culture, and her strong leadership skills ensure she can drive meaningful change. Priyani is dedicated to promoting NAWIC’s mission, actively advocating for women across all roles, including trades, and using her wide circle of influence to elevate the organisation. As a migrant who has excelled in the industry, she brings a unique perspective and an unwavering commitment to empowering others. Her enthusiasm, discipline, and passion make her an outstanding candidate for President Elect.

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

6 years

What is your current job/role in the construction sector?

Chief Exceutive Officer

Briefly describe your aspirations for this role and the initiatives or steps you would implement as President of NAWIC:

To achieve these 3 objectives, I have listed the following a few ideas that could be implemented.

1. I would raise the profile of women in construction through the following initiatives

We need to make ourselves more visible.

• New social media campaign with mini profiles of women in the sector, to highlight and normalise female roles in traditionally male industries.
• Deliver a keynote speech to as many construction related associations as possible (I would be happy to do this as part of my role alongside others) – we would proactively secure these spots at annual conferences
• Statistics to support NAWICs mission – data is vital and needs to be gathered

2. It is vital that businesses are equipped to hire and retain female employees

Women are an asset to all construction businesses

• Secure and further develop existing resources on women in construction roles (for example the work done by TradeCareers)
• Create legal support initiative for women to access if things go wrong
• Promote the positive aspects of women/diversity in the workplace and provide education on how to do this if there are currently no female employees

3. NAWIC must continue to step forward as the voice of women in construction

NAWIC is the voice of women in construction

• Develop and expand on an annual conference in conjunction with the awards
• Develop key stakeholder relationships with government and industry (ensuring these are handed over for each new President)
• Communicate our strategy and our “why” to all stakeholders and bring them along on our journey
• Regular press releases stating our position on relevant issues to amplify NAWICs voice through the media
• Support and progress the hiring of a paid CEO for NAWIC

What are you most passionate about in the construction sector, and how do you envision contributing value to NAWIC and its members?

The construction sector is an incredible industry to be part of. Its workers shape the face of NZ and contribute significantly to its economy. It's tangible and visible and offers a rewarding career. As President I would like to bring my skills, experience and voice to the women who already contribute - and pave the way for those who are yet to find their way to us. I would like to throw the door wide open for women of all ages and stages and join us both at NAWIC and in our industry.

My two key drivers are:

• Our daughters are watching
• What’s my legacy?

Nominator endorsement

Sarah Toase is a passionate and experienced leader dedicated to advocating for women in construction. With her expertise, professionalism, and commitment, she is well-equipped to guide NAWIC through its next stage of growth. Her leadership on the Wellington committee has demonstrated her ability to inspire and drive meaningful change. Known for her sincerity, intelligence, and strong advocacy, she is an outstanding candidate for President Elect. Under her leadership, NAWIC will continue to thrive and strengthen its impact within the industry.

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

Approximately 2 years

What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

Senior Plumber, Gasfitter, DrainLayer

Previous Governance Experience: 

I am currently an Emerging Leader on the National Council for NAWIC since January 2024, this is my first governance role of any sort. I have learnt alot whilst being amongst the council members and apart of some meetings throughout the year, which has helped me broaden my experience on a business/organization level and gain a better understanding of what makes NAWIC, NAWIC. I feel I still have a lot to learn, but I also have alot to contribute as well. My responsibilities varied, and was not just 1 specific role or responsibility, it varied depending on meeting or event. 

Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

I would like to be part of the NAWIC NC, because I feel there is alot of knowledge and experience I can gain from the current NAWIC council members, with this knowledge and experience, it can help me further my career with networking and navigating my role as a female tradie and how i can help other lady tradies feel secure and supported in their chosen trades. I also feel that the Council would benefit from having a Female Tradie Role model who is currently on the tools, for upcoming or current NAWIC members.

What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC organisation and its members?

I'm most passionate about advocating for more women to enter the trades sector, not just as an office based role, more so on the tools, and helping those lady tradies on the tools feel more supported. My target audience is currently High school leavers, or students who are in secondary educational courses. I know there is still a huge amount of potential lady tradies in these spaces who aren't aware of a trade career, or that it is even an option for them. So I would like to advocate for more education around vocational education and training. I envision contributing value to NAWIC and its members just by currently being a Female Plumber,Gasfitter,Drainage,Roofer apprentice, with 8yrs experience in the industry. I think members who know and can see someone who is on the tools and at the forefront of the tradie lines, can bring the reality of what's happening on the front lines to the table, to the meetings and events and speak on others experiences, so that others out there know we are not alone, that we can be heard, that we can create our own platforms to be heard and that we have alot of support from alot of women in the construction industry. 

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

Approximately 5 years

What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

Senior Quantity Surveyor

Previous Governance Experience: 

School leadership roles, and more recently I'm sitting on the Unitec Industry Advisory Committee as an advisor and includes advising on the current state of the construction market to aid Unitec in their decision making.

Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

Towards the start of my career, I found being a female in construction quite daunting and lonely. I found NAWIC to be an accepting group and really helped me feel connected to a wider group of women forging a similar path to myself. With this said, I now feel as though I'm in a position where I would like to start giving back and one of the ways I wish to do this would be through NAWIC and the committee. In recent years, I have also gained great satisfaction through mentoring and I believe NAWIC would be a great way to connect with young females just starting in the industry or thinking about entering the industry and I would love to help them on this journey. 

What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing  NAWIC organisation and its members?

As I'm now a few years into my career and now stepping into more senior leadership positions, I am now more focused and excited about seeing the next generation of construction professionals come into the industry. I have found mentoring extremely rewarding and something I wish to put more time into moving forward. Within this, I've also enjoyed creating a strong female bond internally within my current company and I would like to extend this to a wider audience and I believe NAWIC would be the perfect platform for this. 

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

Joined NAWIC in February 2025, but attended events in 2024

What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

Director, CPEng

Previous Governance Experience: 

I have completed my Structural engineering degree in Germany and completed an apprenticeship in structural drafting in a precast factory at the same time. In Germany, I focused on precast panel construction and was part of large commercial projects with Brendebach Ingenieure (July 2014 – Nov 2016).

After an internship with Beca Ltd in Auckland in 2015 I started my construction career in New Zealand in 2016 as a Structural project engineer on the NZICC with Fletcher Building (Dec 2016 – Nov 2019) completing temporary works design and QA.

From there I moved between smaller and larger consultancies like Blueprint Consulting Engineers ( Nov 2019 – Feb 2022) and WSP (Feb 2022 – June 2023) gaining seismic design experience in commercial and residential projects and becoming a chartered member of Engineering NZ.

In 2022 I supported the ground-retaining construction of an open-cast goldmine in Lihir, Papua New Guinea for several months after I completed the design together with the WSP Melbourne team. For WSP Australia I completed complex permanent and temporary works designs for bridge structures and metro stations.

In early 2023 I founded my company: “Haus Engineering Consultancy”. With experience in both permanent and temporary works design in a broad field, I have a track record of providing solutions on a wide range of structural/civil works such as remediation design, temporary support systems, and construction phase services.

Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

Women belong in the construction sector! Throughout my career, I have had numerous encounters with men trying to argue otherwise, for example: after advising a contractor that insufficient reinforcement was placed in a foundation, I was told: “Why don’t you go back into the kitchen.”

Or turning up for meetings and everyone thinking you are there to take the minutes until you get introduced as the lead design engineer – some entertaining impressions on people's faces I want to help you to encourage and support more women in the industry.

Our communication skills and passion will improve the construction sector significantly. 

What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC organisation and its members?

I love everything about it: The client interaction early on the project talking about the vision, the planning and early design stage coordinating with other consultants, completing the nitty gritty design, calculations and drawings, the good old discussions with the contractor on site until the final product can be handed over. It is the perfect combination of concentrated quiet office work, meeting people, construction visits and visual achievements at completion. I envision using my contacts in the industry to organise events and site visits for the members but also to provide mentoring support/ answer questions should individual members be interested.  

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

2 years

What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

Associate Professor Construction Management, and Research Leader in School of Building and Construction

Previous Governance Experience: 

• President of the NZ Antarctic Society- 2020-2022  (3 years)
• Vice President (NZ Antarctic Society) for 2 years (2018/2019)
• National Secretary (NZ Antarctic Society) for about 3 years (2015-2017)
• President of the NZIOB Northern Chapter (2011-2013)
• National Councillor on NZIOB Board/Council (2010 –14)
• Antarctic Heritage Trust Trustee role on the Board (2020-2022)

Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

I would like to be able to contribute, and hopefully add -value and ideas given my various roles and experience  In the construction and academic sectors, and work with other councillors /governance members on the team to support and lead the current and future NAWIC goals – and keep lifting, membership nos, and inspire even  more women to work in the AEC sector and be NAWIC members.

What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC organisation and its members?

I have been in this industry all my working life starting as an Architectural Cadet trainee and graduate to being an Architectural  Design Consultancy director, Lecturer and more recently an associate professor. I have always been passionate about architecture and construction in particular, working with clients and working with our emerging industry peers and seeing how they flourish and become directors of their own companies in the construction industry.

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

This is my first year

What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

Senior Business Development Manager

Previous Governance Experience: 

Business Mentor - Chamber of Commerce

Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

The strongest support comes from those who truly understand you, which is particularly important for us as women. Sometimes, we talk to people who will listen without judgment. In addition to my extensive work experience, I often say that I am 70% personality and 30% experience. I have faced many challenges in life that have shaped me into a strong, balanced, and resilient person. As a counselor, I aim to share this insight with other women who want to stand on their own two feet but don’t know how. 

What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC organisation and its members?

I have been in this industry all my working life starting as an Architectural Cadet trainee and graduate to being an Architectural  Design Consultancy director, Lecturer and more recently an associate professor. I have always been passionate about architecture and construction in particular, working with clients and working with our emerging industry peers and seeing how they flourish and become directors of their own companies in the construction industry.

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

2 years

What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

Bid Specialist / Creative Director

Previous Governance Experience:

I’ve built my career in high-stakes, competitive environments where leadership, strategy, and execution make the difference between winning and losing. As the Founder & Director of Tend2Create, I’ve led the charge in securing multimillion-dollar contracts for construction and infrastructure businesses in one of the most cutthroat sectors- procurement. That means more than just writing winning bids; it means governance, financial oversight, strategic positioning, and making the tough decisions that drive long-term success.

I don’t just operate in this space - I thrive in it. That’s why I’m actively investing in my governance development, studying Strategic Leadership at the University of Canterbury and growing my governance experience through my membership with the Institute of Directors Canterbury. I’m committed to learning, refining, and applying the best governance principles - not just for myself, but to bring others forward with me.

I know what it takes to build something from the ground up, to lead, and to create success in a fiercely competitive industry. That’s exactly the experience I’ll bring to NAWIC.

Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

I’ve built my career in tough, competitive spaces where women are still underrepresented. I know what it takes to win, lead, and challenge the status quo, and I want to bring that drive to NAWIC. This isn’t just about advocacy - it’s about real opportunities, real leadership, and real change. I’ll use my governance experience, strategic insight, and industry knowledge to push for better support, stronger networks, and more women leading from the front. NAWIC needs people who get things done - and that’s exactly what I do.

What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing  NAWIC organisation and its members?

I’m passionate about seeing more women step into leadership roles, win major contracts, and shape the future of construction. This industry thrives on strategy, execution, and resilience - qualities women bring in spades, yet we’re still underrepresented at decision-making levels. My expertise lies in positioning teams for success, driving competitive strategies, and ensuring businesses are ready to win in high-stakes environments. On the NAWIC Council, I’ll focus on mentoring, strategic advocacy, and creating tangible pathways for women to lead, influence, and succeed - not just as participants, but as industry powerhouses who set the bar.

How long have you been a NAWIC member?

3 years (a member on & off since 2012)

What is your current job/role in the construction industry?

National Commercial Manager | Board Member | Equity Advocate

Previous Governance Experience: 

• National Council | Local Government New Zealand (2020-2023)
• Whangamata Community Board Member | Thames Coromandel District Council (2019 - 2022)
• Whangamata Area School Board Trustee (2019 -2022) 
• Property Council New Zealand Diversity & Inclusion Committee Member (2018 – 2022)
• Chairperson - Carlaw Park Apartments Body Corporate (2018 – 2023)

Tell us in a few words why you would like to be part of the NAWIC National Council?

Construction has been my life since birth. Raised in a renovation, I wielded a hammer before I could walk. There were no gender stereotypes in my whānau, but when I stepped into the industry, I quickly realised the rest of the world didn’t see it that way. I’ve had to push through sexism, self-doubt, and being ignored. After nearly 20 years in the industry, I expected progress to be more rapid, but those who complain must also be a part of the fight. NAWIC can amplify our voices, and I’m eager to be a part of that. 

What are you most passionate about in our industry and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC organisation and its members?

I’m passionate about ensuring wāhine in construction don’t just survive but thrive. We are still losing too many talented wāhine before they reach senior leadership—yet that’s where the real change happens. Transformation comes when we reach leadership saturation, where wāhine are not exceptions but the norm. I know what it’s like to be overlooked, outnumbered, and constantly proving yourself. But I also know the power of backing yourself, finding your people, and refusing to shrink. I’ve built a career by challenging outdated mindsets. NAWIC is an opportunity to mentor, advocate, and create pathways for wāhine to rise together.