Anna Haine | John W Turnbull Estate Engineering

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Electrical & Electronics Engineering

A society is strongest when we recognise and celebrate the diversity of our people, their passions and their strengths. Too often, emphasis has been placed on narrow and prescribed pathways, limiting how young people are encouraged to grow, explore and develop confidence. Greater opportunities lie in communities that actively support the organic growth of their members through encouragement and shared experience. Walking alongside others, rather than directing them, allows individuals to recognise their own powerful capability and potential.

This is particularly important in STEM, where rigid definitions can discourage curiosity and reinforce exclusion. Drawing on personal experiences as a young female engineer and my involvement with GirlGuiding NZ, I am most passionate about empowering young women to engage with the full breadth of STEM possibilities, creating spaces for creativity, questioning and innovation. 

By shifting how growth and participation are supported, communities become more inclusive, resilient and capable of nurturing diverse ideas, shaping future trailblazers.

Sponsor: John W Turnbull Estate Engineering

Mentor: Vanessa Stoddart

Board Chair of the Tonkin + Taylor Group, with extensive experience across governance, executive leadership, and professional services in Aotearoa and Australia. Vanessa has held senior roles in complex, multi‑sector organisations and brings a strong focus on effective leadership, organisational culture, and inclusion. She is passionate about supporting the development of emerging leaders through mentoring and governance practice.