Deloitte Presents: Perspectives in data: Building Aotearoa's future with Databricks and Tech Women (Auckland)
Description
Many organisations are looking past the hype to understand how data and AI can deliver real value for New Zealand. Beyond the buzzwords, real impact comes from people making deliberate choices. From big-picture strategy to hands-on delivery, it’s human judgement and experience that turn complex data into solutions that improve businesses and communities. Join Deloitte, Databricks and Tech Women for an afternoon of straight‑talking insights into how organisations are turning data and analytics into real‑world outcomes, shared by the people doing the mahi. Through short, lightning talks and an open panel discussion, three women in data will share personal stories and lessons learned from real data projects across the public and private sectors. Aligned with Techweek’s Governance pillar, this session focusses on the frameworks and ways of working that support the responsible use of data and AI. It also aligns with the Growth pillar, exploring how effective data use can help grow New Zealand’s economy. What to expect at the event:
This event is for anyone interested in how data and AI can be used thoughtfully to support better decisions, stronger services, and a more innovative Aotearoa. You’ll leave with practical perspectives, fresh ideas, and new connections. |
Speakers
Sonia Wang
Deloitte, Specialist Senior Sonia is a Specialist Senior in Deloitte New Zealand’s AI and Data practice. She specialises in data modernisation, helping organisations move legacy systems to the cloud and build scalable, future-ready solutions. With expertise in Snowflake, Databricks, and Microsoft Azure, Sonia works across data modelling, engineering, and visualisation to drive better decision-making for her clients. She is also an active member of Deloitte’s Women in Technology network, supporting diversity and inclusion within the tech industry.
Stephanie Welsh
Databricks, Senior Sales Leader - Cloud, Data & AI Stephanie is an award-winning sales leader with over a decade of experience driving large-scale digital transformation at organisations like Microsoft, CCL and Databricks. She specialises in managing high-value portfolios and leading regional teams to deliver cloud, data, and AI solutions across both public and private sectors. With a strong focus on people-first leadership, Stephanie excels at building and scaling high-performing teams that consistently deliver strategic growth objectives in complex environments. Recognised with the Reseller News Sales Excellence Award, she is known for her ability to navigate intricate stakeholder landscapes and align technology with executive priorities to drive meaningful business transformation and long-term partnerships.
Rachel Harrison
ASB - Head of Decision Science & AI Rachel is the Head of Decision Science & AI at ASB, where she has built and led the bank’s analytics capability since 2017. With over 20 years’ experience across leading organisations, she combines deep expertise in Computer Science, Statistics, and Business to drive commercially focused, ethical AI innovation. Rachel is passionate about building high‑performing teams, embedding analytics into decision‑making, and fostering a strong analytics culture.
Shazeaa Salim
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Chief Operations Officer
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
