How long have you been a NAWIC member?
1.5 years
What is your current job/role?
Technical Fellow - Strategic Asset Management at Beca
Previous Governance Experience:
- Founding Co-Chair Te Tau Ihu (Nelson Tasn Marlborough) NAWIC Branch August 2024-August 2025
- Member Global Women and Member Business and Professional Women of New Zealand
- Life Member, President, Vice President, Audit and Risk Chairperson, Chairperson -Professional Practice Committee, Āpōpō Asset Management Professionals 2017-current
- Vice President, Chairperson Marketing Communication & New Zealand Representative, International Federation of Municipal Engineers (IFME) 2017-current
- Life Member, Chairperson, National Executive Carbon & Energy Professionals (EMANZ) 1994- 2016
- Independent Director & Audit and Risk Committee, Institute of Public Works Engineering (IPWEA) Australasia 2020-2023
- Chairperson IPWEA NZ Training and Development Working Group 2017-2018
- Chairperson NAMS 2016 Advanced Asset Management Forum 2016/2018
- President, Vice President 2010-2015 New Zealand Federation of Multicultural Councils
- President and IPP Manawatu Multicultural Council 2013-2014
- President, Vice President & Advisory Nelson Multicultural Council 2010 – 2016
- Chairperson and Executive Board Member Nelson Netball Centre 1998-2013
- Fundraising Manager & Committee Member Saxton Field Sports Stadium Society
My responsibilities include prominent leadership roles in not for profit municipal engineering, infrastructure asset management, energy management, and multicultural advocacy. As Vice President of the International Federation of Municipal Engineers (IFME), I serve on the Global Board of Directors, chair the Marketing and Communications Sub-Committee, and previously led the Asset Management Technical Committee and Finance and Risk Committee.
I champion women's empowerment, sustainable development goals, equity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability on a global platform, interacting with country heads and governments.
I am a Life Member and former President of Āpōpō Infrastructure Asset Management Professionals, where I led the board in the strategic transformation of the organisation, integrating Te Tiriti Partnership and Mātauranga Māori into asset management practices. I worked with my team to strengthen Āpōpō’s identity and influence, making it a trusted advisor to government and communities during reform and environmental change.
My advocacy extends to energy management, where with a strong board team we influenced government policy, developed industry guidance, and fostered innovation. I have earned a place in the 'NZ Hall of Fame'.
Additionally, as President of Multicultural New Zealand, I am a strong advocate for migrant women to succeed within New Zealand, with my hard working board we have created treaty-based multicultural programmes, supported migrant entry initiatives, and represented the organisation at diplomatic and government level.
With a strong background in finance, audit and risk and knowledge of governmental policy and governance, I am experienced to serve on this Board.
Tell us in a few words why would you would like to be part of the NAWIC Governance Board?
I wish to join the NAWIC Governance Board because this organisation has real impact and empowers change for women. I have personally experienced the profound sense of belonging and the inspiring vision this organisation holds for women in construction.
NAWIC has significantly impacted the lives of so many women, including my own, and I am committed to ensuring that more women across New Zealand feel they have belonging within our supportive community.
I wish to advocate for and positively intervene on behalf of all women to succeed in our sector.
My skills, passion, and my 'why' aligns with the board's mission to include, respect, inspire, and empower and celebrate women's success. I feel I possess the voice and courage needed to advance our mission alongside our motivated and dedicated board.
What are you most passionate about in construction and what value would you like to add to the existing NAWIC association and its Members?
I am deeply passionate about equity and empowerment for women in construction and our broader sector. Through my mahi, coaching, and mentorship, I value uplifting women in STEM and young professionals, fostering their growth and success in what can be a challenging world.
My skills and passion align naturally with advocating for diversity, resilience, and courage, mentoring rising stars, and cultivating inclusive leadership.
As an experienced not-for-profit governance leader, I bring strategic vision, the ability to navigate the path to achieve meaningful outcomes, and a commitment to driving progress and our call to action.
At the board table, I would bring authenticity, courage, and a steady dedication to serve our members. My goal is to leave a lasting legacy for our communities of practice and for New Zealand by creating opportunities for our women to thrive. With energy and determination, I aim to support others to make a difference, ensuring a brighter and more inclusive future us all.
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Priyani de Silva-Currie
She also emailed this supporting document.