Session 4: Strengthening our disabled leadership
Session 4 of the Enhancing Leadership series will be led by Paula Tesoriero MNZM PLY, Chief Executive of Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Throughout her kōrero, Paula will use her own leadership journey through sport, the public service and roles in the disability community to share what she has learnt in growing disability leadership.
The session will talk about the importance of driving real and meaningful change with disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori and their whānau and how everyone has a responsibility in this.
Paula Tesoriero MNZM PLY, Chief Executive of Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha
Paula is the Chief Executive of Whaikaha, leading efforts to drive meaningful change for disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori, and their whānau. A respected leader in the disability community, she is disabled herself and has deep insight into the challenges faced.
Previously, Paula served as the Disability Rights Commissioner at the Human Rights Commission from 2017 and acted as Chief Human Rights Commissioner in 2018-2019. She has extensive public service experience, including roles at the Ministry of Justice and Statistics New Zealand.
Paula has held governance positions with Peke Waihanga, Nuku Ora, and Paralympics NZ. A Paralympian, she won a gold and two bronze medals at the 2008 Beijing Games.
