An under-30 representative of Nga Kaitiaki o te Ara Whanake and an alumni of Te Ara Whanake, goal-driven Kumeroa White (‘Cooms’) describes the immense satisfaction gained from her role, making a difference to the local communities she works with in the water space in the Bay of Plenty.

As a young woman, with only four years’ experience in infrastructure, Cooms says, “I don’t feel I am treated differently because I’m female. The perspective wahine bring on site adds an alternate viewpoint to the project team – not better, just different. Women can be more empathetic and willing to listen or collaborate within a team.”

Cooms believes the support she received from leaders has directly contributed to her career progression to a supervisor role: “Positive mentoring and coaching helped me navigate some challenging times. My managers’ have highlighted strengths in me that I had not recognised in myself. Downer helps people find their niche. It’s such a diverse sector – you can find your area to shine.”