Terry Shubkin

Why the Women's Fund?

I have been fortunate to have been born, raised and supported with an innate belief in myself and confidence to pursue my dreams. I've benefitted my whole career from strong and supportive role models and mentors – both men and women. But, I remember one time talking to a young woman who was telling me about some challenges she'd had professionally, and how hard she found it because there were no senior female managers at her company to support and guide her. That was a bit of an "aha" moment for me and a realisation of the importance for many women of having other women to support and guide them, and encourage them to create their own opportunities.

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

I love how the Women's Fund talks not just about creating opportunities and lifting each other up, but also refers to raising expectation. A wise person once said to me "expectation leads to achievement". If you don't expect to do great things, you never will. So, for me, the Women's Fund starts by empowering women of all ages to expect great things from themselves and others. And then, providing the support to achieve those aspirations.

Who is your biggest female role model/inspiration and why?

I'm a big fan of Maya Angelou. She has so many amazing quotes that to me are just inspiring. My favourite one is "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel ". This has helped shape how I interact with people – both personally and in business.

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

"...feel empowered to dream big and to feel they have the right, capability and support to pursue those dreams."