Women Making a Difference
International Women's Day is a global celebration highlighting achievements of women.
We wanted to hero some of our incredible wāhine and recognise the progress made towards gender equality and inclusion.
Georgia Moore – Apprentice Service Technician
Georgia Moore's decision to pursue a Heavy Automotive Apprenticeship emphasises the opportunities that are more commonly available for women in non-traditional roles.
“I grew up on a farm driving different machinery such as diggers and tractors with my dad, and that definitely sparked the interest for me.
I think some females may be daunted by the idea of working in the Heavy Automotive industry however, in reality there are no gender specific roles. If you find a real interest in something, you can absolutely do it.
My team have helped to unlock my potential in a male dominated environment by supporting me and showing me techniques and different ways of doing tasks. To me that is what International Women's Day is all about, supporting one another and encouraging other women to break through those glass ceilings.”
Komal Mistry-Mehta – Chief Innovation & Brand Officer
Komal is part of the Fonterra Management Team and exemplifies leadership characterised by empathy and a strong advocacy for diversity and inclusion.
As the Chief Innovation & Brand Officer, Komal's dedication to shaping the future of the Co-op is matched only by her passion for equality within the workplace. Balancing her career with the joys and challenges of motherhood, she is a devoted mother to her one-year-old daughter, Ira.
It’s a season of your life that redefines you as a human. You gain a richer perspective, become more empathetic, challenge yourself on what is truly important to you, and I think that makes you a better leader.
“Becoming a parent is such a beautiful and rewarding journey. I have loved every minute of it, and I have so much gratitude to be Ira’s mother. That’s not to say it is easy, the juggle is real, and the struggles are real. I have so much admiration for the parents out there, every day making it happen.
It’s a season of your life that redefines you as a human. You gain a richer perspective, become more empathetic, challenge yourself on what is truly important to you, and I think that makes you a better leader.
Recognising the importance of smooth transitions in the workplace, especially after parental leave, we have partnered with external providers to offer the "Returning with Confidence" programme. This initiative aims to support parents as they navigate the complexities of re-entering the workforce, ensuring they can return with assurance and continue their career trajectory with Fonterra.
Moreover, as a Major Partner of Global Women, Fonterra is proud to champion female leadership on a larger scale. In 2024, we are taking significant steps to nurture our talent by sending 15 of our exceptional New Zealand women leaders to participate in the Activate Global Women’s Leadership programme. This opportunity is a testament to our belief in the potential of our women leaders and our investment in their growth and impact both within Fonterra and the broader industry.”
Pip Swain – Tanker Operator
Pip entered the world of transport with a desire to be out and about and not stuck in an office.
“I have the best office in the world. I get to explore the beauty of New Zealand, while ensuring the safe delivery of the milk to our Edendale Fonterra site.”
Pip acknowledges the scarcity of women in the industry, attributing it to lingering stereotypes and misconceptions. But she believes with a bit of ‘you can do it’ encouragement and the support she has been fortunate to receive, more women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated roles.
“At Fonterra, I have experienced firsthand the company's commitment to supporting women in the workplace. I’ve been provided with two generous parental leave packages, which have been a blessing. During both pregnancy's steps were also taken in my day-to-day activities to ensure my safety and well-being.”
“I have two daughters and I am teaching them that they can do anything they want to do. International Women's Day to me is a day for everyone to recognise and celebrate all the strong, amazing wāhine (women) in the world who break down the stigma and limitations put on women.”
Esraa El Shall – Head of Innovation & Development
Esraa El Shall is not only the Head of Innovation & Development at Fonterra Brands New Zealand but she is also the President of the New Zealand Institute of Food Science and Technology (NZIFST).
Born in Egypt, Esraa moved to New Zealand when she was 14 and lived in Palmerston North, attending Palmerston North Girls High School, and moving on to a degree in Food Technology in Auckland. After a varied and purposeful period working at companies such as Epicurean Dairy and Frucor Suntory, she joined the Fonterra Brands team and quickly progressed to her current role.
Esraa baking for her team
Take inspiration from the people around you but don’t compare your pace to others. Enjoy the now and focus on what you can control and what you can influence.
Esraa has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, leveraging her expertise to deliver cutting-edge solutions for a sustainable future and for this reason she has been named among other inspiring women in Aotearoa New Zealand’s TOP 50 most influential & inspiring women in food & drink.
“I was overwhelmed with emotion and the more I read the profiles of the 49 other incredible wāhine, I was filled with warmth, pride and honour to be named amongst these amazing women with a hint of how did I make this list!”
Esraa's reflections on International Women's Day highlights the importance of celebrating women's achievements while acknowledging the collective work that lies ahead.
“Take inspiration from the people around you but don’t compare your pace to others. Enjoy the now and focus on what you can control and what you can influence.”