Empowering Women to Lead Change in Local Government

Session Outline:

Explore strategies to overcome challenges unique to women in local politics. Discuss how to address societal biases, balance life responsibilities, and navigate potential online abuse. Gain insights from inspiring leaders, connect with a supportive network, and access resources to empower your campaign.

These were your speakers:

Kelly Stratford
Kelly Stratford (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Wai, Ngai Te Rangi) has served in local government since 2015 and is currently the Deputy Mayor of the Far North District Council. With work experience in pharmacy and business ownership in hospitality, she has honed her governance, community advocacy, and emergency management skills by being involved in her communities and volunteering. Kelly is known for her straight-talking, people-first leadership style. She brings lived experience as a wāhine Māori navigating council systems, balancing whānau life, and championing kaupapa like climate resilience, housing, and Māori representation. Kelly is passionate about empowering others to step into leadership, especially those who’ve never seen themselves reflected around the council table.

Angela Dalton
Angela Dalton has been in local government for 18 years, currently serving as Auckland Councillor for the Manurewa-Papakura Ward. She is Chair of the Community Committee and Deputy Chair of the Policy and Planning Committee. Angela has been active in championing a safe space for elected women at Auckland Council and has been vocal in bringing attention to the issue of bullying in local government. As an experienced elected member she encourages women to be at the table and have their voices heard on issues facing their communities.

Kat MacMillan
Kat’s passion for the protection and restoration of the environment led her to become a councillor for the Bay of Plenty Regional Council in 2022. She is chair of Council’s Strategy and Policy Committee and Co-chair of a co-governance forum, Te Uepu. Kat’s vision for the Bay of Plenty is: Protected and restored ecosystems, clean waterways, public transport for all, honouring Te Tiriti, sustainable green development, thriving communities and a low carbon future. Kat believes we can act together to build a more sustainable world. Kat has a science degree background (BSc Hons Zoology) and a career in management, leadership coaching and facilitation. In Kat’s spare time she enjoys distance running and spending time with family, friends and animals.

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