Kelly Johnson
Tamahere’s Kelly Johnson is one of the YWCA’s inaugural Y25 wāhine toa – warrior women – of 2020.
The initiative aims to support young women doing big things in their respective fields.
Being named means Kelly is part of a final group of 25 women whittled down from 100 who will now receive a year-long mentoring programme to help with their business endeavours.
She’ll also get to develop her presentation skills and get training in goal setting, influencing, marketing and personal branding.
In her case, she’s looking to use the guidance provided to bring positives to her company – Her Energy.
Her Energy is an electricity retailer which gives back a significant portion of its profits to women’s initiatives.
“We hope the Y25 will become a strong cohort each year.”
Among those supported by the company during its just over 12-month history so far are The Aunties, Cambridge Community House, Vinnies Hamilton and Te Awamutu’s Loving Arms, which supports mothers and families in need.
She says one of the most valuable aspects of mentoring will be the opportunity to rub shoulders with like-minded people.
“When you look at the women chosen, every single one of them is achieving amazing things in what they do – for me, I can’t wait for the opportunity to meet with them, discuss things and learn from them.”
YWCA Auckland CEO Dellwyn Stuart they were pleased with the inaugural list.
She said nominations came from all over the country and from a broad range.
“We hope the Y25 will become a strong cohort each year, supporting each other and being visible role models for girls across New Zealand.”
