Mary Haddock-Staniland

Why the Women's Fund?

Growing up with only women around me (my father had little to do with my upbringing) I know only too well what matters the most to them. Not only are they the glue in any whānau construct, they get stuff done – faced with all the adversity under the sun. For me, being involved in the Women’s Fund allows me to use my ability to connect, influence, encourage and educate those around me to do better, and be better. It’s as simple as that.

How or where do you see the Women’s Fund making a difference?

Our youth need as much support as possible. In a post Covid-19 world, there is so much uncertainty out there. Dreaming is believing, and anything is possible with the right attitude, and support. We all have a stage to stand on and show back to those watching, that anything is possible. Being creative and innovative is so important. We need to allow for this to happen and with more support, we can support even more amazing wāhine toa.

Who is your biggest female role model inspiration and why?

It's no secret that my mother is my inspiration. Raising six children on her own, while working full time and managing to ensure I had everything I needed to navigate life while young, and unaware of who and what I wanted to be in the world. She is the reason I'm here. My mother is simply the best!

Finish this sentence: "In 10 years’ time, I want women and girls in New Zealand to..."

“...I want there to be fair and reasonable work environments across all areas of the working landscape and in our communities. Less of the stereotypes and biases that play out in the workplace. I want there to be more Wahine Toa Leaders inside our leadership teams, inside Aotearoa New Zealand businesses. Let's use this opportunity to regroup as a nation and as a global in the aftermath of the global pandemic and make a change, for the better. Our future selves will thank us.”