Across the motu, it’s easy for young people to dream big – but far harder to turn those dreams into reality. For young wāhine, there continue to be additional barriers to success, from unconscious biases to under-representation. 

That’s why programmes such as Dreaming Big are so important. Created for talented young women in their last year of secondary school, these free events provide invaluable advice and practical tips from a lineup of speakers who also dared to dream – and succeeded.  

Through powerful discussions, attendees are inspired and encouraged to seize opportunities, overcome challenges, and be bold in the pursuit of their goals. After seven years, the programme is now held annually in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and the Waikato, attracting up to 100 students in each region. Local schools can select two kōhine in Year 13 with potential to attend. 

The events are run by OnBeingBold, an initiative founded in 2017 by nine female business leaders to help women at all stages of their careers. OnBeingBold is widely known for its Bold Steps conference, an annual summit for women in leadership and the biggest of its kind in Aotearoa. 

“Initially, we started off with our Bold Steps conference, and our aim was to inspire women in their lives and careers. But then we felt there was a real need to engage with younger women. You think back to your days at school, and not being sure what opportunities there were – it was daunting. So we decided to put together this programme, Dreaming Big,” says OnBeingBold co-founder Alison Gerry, Chair of Infratil and Director of ANZ Group and Air New Zealand. 

“It's a version of Bold Steps, but we try to find younger speakers who the Year 13 students see themselves in – we want people they can relate to. We particularly try to target public high schools, because they don't often have as many opportunities. We make sure it's a really fun, inclusive, and inspiring day.” 

“We sat back and thought about what would be helpful to us if we were 17 or 18 again, about to leave school and perhaps leave home. What would be good advice for us?” adds fellow co-founder Cathy Quinn, Director at Fonterra and Fletcher Building, Chair of Tourism Holdings, and University of Auckland Pro-Chancellor. 

Proceeds from the Bold Steps summit are used to fund Dreaming Big, says Quinn, meaning there is no cost to the school or student. 

What does a Dreaming Big event entail? 

Each event follows a similar structure. The day begins with a diverse panel of inspiring role models, from young female entrepreneurs to leading women in business, followed by a Q&A with a key speaker. These discussions not only focus on tips and practical advice, but allow the guests to talk candidly about mistakes they’ve made, lessons they’ve learned, and real-life experiences.  

The day then includes several helpful sessions, addressing topics such as entrepreneurship, leadership, navigating social media, and developing a personal brand online.  

Each event also features a segment that focuses on landing a job interview, including how to present yourself, how to write a strong CV, and how to conquer Imposter Syndrome. The day concludes with a Q&A session between students and the OnBeingBold team. 

Examples of previous speakers include chair of Tainui Group Holdings, Hinerangi Raumati-Tu'ua; former Health NZ CEO Margie Apa; Jessie Wong, founder and owner of leather goods label Yu Mei; Hon Nicola Willis, Minister of Finance and Deputy Leader of the National Party; Kendra Cocksedge, the most capped Black Fern of all time; and fellow OnBeingBold co-founders Dame Joan Withers, Dame Therese Walsh, Dame Paula Rebstock, Alison Gerry, Jolie Hodson, Cathy Quinn, Royal Reed, Silvana Schenone and Frances Valintine. 

“I think the key takeaway is that life is not a linear path, that there are ups and downs. We try to use stories and anecdotes from successful people who have failed at times in their own careers, to make sure the students recognise the importance of resilience,” says Gerry.  

Her advice to get the most out of the event? Take notes.

“In six months' time, look back at your notes – you might find you've lost a little bit of confidence, or a little bit of inspiration. Go back to your notes and remember the day, and that will give you the energy to move forward and be courageous.” 

Quinn hopes every attendee takes away a newfound boldness to embrace opportunities with open arms.

“We always receive really positive feedback about it being a really inspirational day that's motivational, insightful, and eye-opening,” she says. “We all take the view that if we’ve made a positive difference even to one person's life, then it's been successful.” 

Meet the OnBeingBold collective:

  • Dame Therese Walsh: Chair – Air New Zealand, ASB Bank
  • Dame Joan Withers: Chair – The Warehouse Group; Director – Sky, ANZ, Origin Energy Australia
  • Dame Paula Rebstock: Chair – NZ Post, Asia Pacific Healthcare Group; Deputy Chair – AIA Insurance, NZX; Director – Vector, Auckland One Rail, SealLink
  • Alison Gerry: Chair – Infratil; Director – ANZ Group, Air New Zealand
  • Jolie Hodson: CEO – Spark
  • Cathy Quinn: Chair – Tourism Holdings Ltd, Fertility Associates; Director – Fonterra, Fletcher Building; Pro-Chancellor – University of Auckland
  • Royal Reed: Partner – Meredith McConnell
  • Silvana Schenone: Managing Director, Co-Head of Investment Banking – Jarden
  • Frances Valintine: Founder, Board Director – academyEX