This year, I was honoured to be named Inspiring Woman 2025 by World Commerce & Contracting. I’m incredibly grateful — not just for the award, but for what it represents: that this kaupapa, this mahi, and this message still matters — even in tough times.
Because let’s be honest. Around the world, inclusive procurement and broader DEI efforts are under attack.
In the US, entire programmes are being dismantled. And here in Aotearoa, we’re feeling the political shift too — with growing scrutiny of Māori rights, Treaty obligations, and targeted investment in Māori and Pasifika communities. People are nervous. Some agencies are pulling back. Some buyers are waiting to “see how things shake out.”
But here’s the thing: our commitment to a more inclusive economy can’t disappear just because it’s politically inconvenient.
We don’t do this work because it’s trendy. Or because we’re told to. We do it because it builds a stronger, more resilient Aotearoa.
When an economic shock hits — a recession, a pandemic, a budget squeeze — we know who feels it first and hardest:
Māori and Pasifika businesses
Women-owned businesses
Small businesses
These are the businesses more likely to be under-capitalised, less connected, and often excluded when belts tighten. But that’s exactly why creating impact through procurement is one of the most powerful tools we have. It’s not just about equity. It’s smart procurement. It’s economic development. It’s resilience.
When we bring Māori, Pasifika and women-owned businesses into our supply chains, we’re not ticking a box — we’re redistributing opportunity, strengthening communities, and building systems that can weather disruption and deliver better outcomes.
So yes — being recognised as an Inspiring Woman is deeply humbling.
But I don’t see it as a celebration of me — I see it as recognition of us. Of this movement. Of everyone who’s still pushing for equity in a climate that’s telling us to shrink back.
Because this is exactly when supplier diversity matters most. This is when it counts.
Three Things You Can Do Right Now:
Buy with intent.
Ask: “Can a Māori, Pasifika or women-owned business deliver this?”
If yes — engage them. If not — ask why not, and fix the gap.
Every dollar is a decision. Spend it with purpose.Keep diverse suppliers visible.
Name them in meetings. Invite them early. Advocate for them when they’re not in the room.
If they’re invisible, they’re excluded.Track what really matters.
Spend is just the starting point. Ask: Who got the work? What changed for them — and for their community?
That’s the impact story we need to tell. That’s what helps protect this work when others start backing away.
I’ll leave you with this whakataukī:
He moana pukepuke e ekengia e te waka.
Even choppy seas can be navigated if we remain resolute.
—
Frae Cairns
