We Belong: Panel Discussion

What does Breaking Barriers mean to you? At the NAWIC Bay of Plenty panel discussion for 2026, when we talk about breaking barriers, we're not just talking about barriers on a construction site. We're talking about the barriers that exist in our workplaces, our communities, our homes, and sometimes within ourselves.

NAWIC's We Belong panel discussion this year will feature speakers who have each broken different barriers, and their stories will remind us that success is rarely a straight line. Behind every achievement, promotion, qualification, project and leadership role is an important story. A story of determination, resilience, courage and sometimes doubt. We are celebrating those stories and the women who continue to break barriers and pave the way for others.

We would love for you to join us and share any stories you have!
Nibbles and drinks provided by event supporter Kingspan.
Enjoy some networking icebreakers, with prizes proudly donated by NAWIC Platinum Sponsor Rheem, to finish off the evening.

Meet the panel:

Jessica Packe: a New Zealand builder, apprentice, and BCITO Women in Trades champion, who pivoted from hospitality to construction after experiencing personal tragedy, Jessica's story is one of finding strength within.

Emmolina May: Director of EM, Emmolina has come up against many barriers in her mission to improve contractual awareness, strengthen commercial capability, and make dispute resolution more accessible across New Zealand’s construction industry, particularly cultural and language barriers.

Kylie Falconer: Now a project Manager at TSA Riley, Kylie had to break through several personal barriers while building a career at the same time, showing her push-through mentality and newfound confidence could only lead to success.

Karen Humphreys: With 46 years in the construction field, the last 10 at Signature Homes as a designer and estimator, Karen has seen all the generational changes that have come with being a woman in construction. Her superpower is actually real power - at 63, she is off to represent NZ next month at the Powerlifting World Comp!

Cost: $5 for NAWIC Members. $15 for Non-Members. All proceeds are going to Girl Guides Tauranga.
Not a NAWIC Member? Join today
Parking: Available at Fulton Hogan.

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!

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