Team EmpowHER, founded by Rani Nalam in 2020 during the challenging times of COVID-19, aims to address the struggles faced by ethnic communities in New Zealand. Rani noticed a gap where women, particularly in these communities, were not able to openly discuss issues related to health, mental well-being, and family safety. This led her to establish a platform where women could have meaningful conversations in a safe, supportive environment. EmpowHER emerged from her vision, with the backing of other like-minded women, to bridge the gap between everyday women and the support they need for their daily challenges.
The group’s mission is to “Inspire, Inform, and Support” women across Aotearoa (New Zealand). Their goal is to provide a non-judgmental, inclusive space where women from diverse backgrounds can share their experiences and grow together. EmpowHER aims to create a series of free forums to educate and empower women, promoting mental well-being and personal growth through self-awareness, encouragement, and support.
Since its inception, EmpowHER has organized 10 forums, covering topics such as financial wisdom, women in business, hormonal health, and leadership. These forums are designed to encourage women to embrace their unique strengths and develop the confidence needed to thrive. Each forum features guest speakers who share their expertise and real-life experiences, allowing women from all walks of life to connect and learn from one another.
The EmpowHER team consists of five core members, each bringing a wealth of experience from various professional backgrounds. This diverse group includes professionals from ANZ Bank, public service, community involvement, law, and business ownership. Together, they have over 100 years of experience working in New Zealand, and they are dedicated to delivering high-quality, impactful events.
Organizing these events requires meticulous planning, and the team often meets via Zoom or in person to ensure every detail is carefully considered. From selecting the topic to finding speakers, venues, and promoting the event on social media, the team works tirelessly to ensure each forum meets their high standards. They also use digital tools such as Slido for interactive Q&A sessions, Humanitix for registration, and QR codes for feedback surveys. After each event, the team regroups to review feedback and identify areas for improvement, ensuring they continue to offer meaningful and impactful experiences for their attendees.
Events this year-
1. March 12, 2024: International Women’s Day – “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” The first event of the year was hosted in collaboration with the High Commission of India in Wellington. The panel discussion featured distinguished speakers, including H. E. Neet Bhushan, the High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, Hon Minister Penny Simmonds MP, and Mrs. Prabha Ravi, with moderator Wendy McGuiness. The event tackled key issues related to women’s rights, empowerment, and gender equality, offering valuable insights from leaders in the field.
2. September 14, 2024: “BeYOUtiful and Bold” – Celebrating Confidence and Body Positivity Held at Auckland’s Fickling Centre, this event focused on body positivity and self-confidence, encouraging women to embrace their uniqueness. The highlight of the afternoon was an inspiring talk by Johanna-May Manks, a personal stylist who helps individuals boost their confidence through personal styling. Her interactive demonstration, where attendees brought their own outfits to be styled, reinforced the theme of self-expression and empowerment. The event left attendees feeling uplifted and motivated to embrace their authentic selves.
The success of these events is a testament to the dedication of Team EmpowHER and their passionate volunteers. Their hard work, combined with the support of sponsors and collaborators, has helped create inclusive and empowering experiences for women across New Zealand.
If you would like to learn more or get involved in future events, follow EmpowHER on Facebook and Instagram (@empowher.today2.-TIN Bureau