CALLING ALL
CANTERBURY
CHANGEMAKEHERS
We believe that young women are the trailblazers of the future, which is why we created the Canterbury GirlBoss Awards.
The Canterbury region is home to some of the most brilliant and inspiring young women who are breaking stereotypes and carving out new paths. From Christchurch to Kaikoura, these young change-makers are leading the charge towards a brighter future.
In partnership with Orion and Connetics, we are thrilled to have the backing of local Canterbury businesses. Together, we are seeking young Cantabrians who are making a difference for themselves and others.
Join us in this movement to empower and celebrate the next generation of female leaders in our region.
Nominate a young woman or apply today and let's show the world what young women in Canterbury can achieve.
All Canterbury regional applicants will also be automatically entered into the Nationwide Awards.
Founder, GirlBoss New Zealand
Our Canterbury Categories
Each category winner will receive
a $1000 cash grant.
Inclusion
A GirlBoss who empowers others to dream more, do more, and be more.
Sponsored by Jade
Trailblazer
A leader who defies stereotypes, inspires others, and creates change.
Sponsored by Orion & Connetics
Sport
A GirlBoss who plays like a girl - giving it her all and helping others do the same.
Sponsored by Sport Canterbury
Arts & Culture
A GirlBoss whose love for arts and culture see her leading the way.
Sponsored by Chapman Tripp
Innovation
A GirlBoss who imagines a better future and sets out to create it in new and innovative ways.
Sponsored by Enable
Emerging Leader
A GirlBoss (aged 11–14) who is not afraid to speak up and embodies the question:
‘If not me, who? If not now, when?’
Sponsor: TBC
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths)
A GirlBoss whose love for STEM has her thinking, researching and creating, to make our world a better place.
Sponsored by Stantec
Community
A GirlBoss with the heart to make a difference and the courage to take a stand.
Sponsored by St Margaret's College
Our Judges
Trailblazers leading the way
Bridie O'Keefe
Network Controller
Orion Group
Donna Frew
Chief Commercial Officer
Enable
Diana Patchett
Executive Principal
St Margaret's College
Kate Pearce
People & Capability Business Partner Lead
Jade Software
Josie Lewis
Managing Counsel
Stantec
Grace Ward
Youth Engagement Advisor
Sport Canterbury
Ingrid Taylor
Partner
Chapman Tripp
Our Previous Winners
We are so proud of them!
Trailblazer:
Elsie Duncan and Jorja Quinn
Lincoln High School
Innovation:
Ella Sage
University of Canterbury
2024
Community:
Annabell Young
Lincoln
Inclusion:
Georgia Rumball
Rangi Ruru Girls' School
Sport:
Stella Crossan
Christchurch Girls' High School
STEM:
Amber Collishaw
Villa Maria College
Arts & Culture
Rena Oliphant
Cashmere High School
Trailblazer:
Charlotte Livingston
Ashburton College
Enterprise:
Monique van der Westhuizen
Twizel Area School
Innovation:
Millie Palmer
Cashmere High School
2023
Community:
Mackenzie Wills
Rolleston College
Inclusion:
Bethany Crossan
Christchurch Girls’ High School
Sport:
Charlotte Mortlock
Burnside High School
STEM:
Millie Edwards
St Margaret's College
Activator
Katie Wells
Cashmere High School
Arts & Culture
Jade Wilson
Kaiapoi High School
Emerging Leader:
Hannah Wells
Kaiapoi High School