Gretchen La Roche

CE Creative New Zealand

Gretchen is an experienced arts leader and a trained musician. Her return to Creative New Zealand as Tumu Whakarae is her third role with the agency, after starting as a Programme Adviser (then Senior Programme Adviser) in 2006 and returning as Senior Manager Arts Development Services in 2022. She was also an inaugural member of the advisory group Te Roopu Mana Toi. Most recently, Gretchen was Executive Director of The Court Theatre as the rebuilt theatre opened in Ōtautahi. She has previously served as CE of Chamber Music New Zealand, and as CEO of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra after joining the orchestra as Artistic Director. Gretchen is from Te Tairawhiti. After several roles based in Te Wai Pounamu, she is now based in Tāmaki Makaurau.

Hon James Meager

Minister for the South Island

James Meager is the National MP for Rangitata, Minister for Hunting and Fishing, Minister for the South Island, Minister for Youth and Associate Minister of Transport. James, 37, was born and raised Timaru with family from both Mid and South Canterbury. After gaining a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Otago, James held a number of roles at Otago University, including as a student coordinator and a strategic projects manager for its Māori health workforce development programme. He went on to work for National MP Chris Bishop, as a press secretary for then-Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett and as an advisor to opposition leaders Bill English and Simon Bridges. James then spent three years with Simpson Grierson in Wellington and Christchurch, including as a senior solicitor in the public law litigation team. Outside of work, James enjoys spending time with his two dogs Alexios (Alex) and Barnabas (Barney), and playing cricket for the Parliamentary Cricket XI aka The Blackbenchers, which he co-captains.

Janelle Riki-Waaka

Tainui Awhiro, Ngāti Hauiti

Kaihautū / Director, Riki Consultancy

Janelle is one of two Kaihautū (Directors) of Riki Consultancy, working alongside her brother Nathan. A dynamic and experienced leader, she brings over 14 years of expertise across leadership, strategy, and governance. Janelle is a powerful keynote speaker, skilled coach, and engaging emcee - known for her ability to inspire, challenge, and connect with a wide range of audiences. Her passion for te Tiriti o Waitangi education and her sharp strategic thinking make her a trusted guide for clients and communities navigating transformational change. When she’s not deep in kaupapa Māori or leading courageous kōrero in boardrooms, you’ll find her screaming the house down in support of her favourite rugby league teams or trying to look like she's somewhat coordinated in her newest pastime - reformer Pilates! Janelle’s superpower? The perfect blend of warmth, insight, and a fearless ability to provoke new thinking - all delivered with aroha and authenticity.

James Wilson

Funding HQ

With over 20 years’ experience in the arts, culture and heritage sectors, James has worked with a range of not-for-profit organisations across fundraising, strategy, programming, community engagement and audience development. James trained as a theatre director, working for a variety of arts venues in London, including the Lyric Hammersmith, Tate Modern, and The Orange Tree Theatre. James has held leadership roles at Massive Theatre Company, Q Theatre, and Tauranga City Council. James works as a fundraising coach with Funding HQ, helping to build fundraising capability for not-for-profits and community organisations across Aotearoa.

Kate Oktay

Campaign Specialist

Kate Oktay has built a career at the intersection of business development, storytelling, and creative strategy. She has worked across China, Australia, and New Zealand, specialising in start-ups, digital media, and creative industries. With experience in copywriting and journalism, Kate enjoys crafting stories that spark curiosity, build audiences, and drive revenue. After leading marketing at Tūhura Otago Museum, she now works as a freelancer with museums and galleries, and is dipping her toes into the world of AI.