Julie Paterson Resigns as Co-Chair of WISPA Board on a High Note

Women in Sport Aotearoa, NgÄ WÄhine HÄkinakina o Aotearoa (WISPA) has announced the resignation of Julie Paterson from her role as Co-Chair of the WISPA Board. Julie has served the organisation for the past six years and will be leaving an mark on the advancement of women in sport and active recreation.

Julie's expertise and leadership has been instrumental in the organisation's success. Her guidance in the successful bid of the IWG Secretariat was instrumental. It brought to fruition the world's largest gender equity in sport and physical activity conference to Aotearoa.

"The establishment and growth of WISPA have been a significant undertaking for over seven years, and while I am sad to be stepping away from the WISPA Co-Chair role, the time is right for new leadership", Julie Paterson said.

"WISPA is at the beginning of the next strategic phase, and I am excited to see how fresh thinking will progress the ongoing development of our organisation. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this amazing journey."

Julie will continue to be part of the WISPA whÄnau as one of the Co-Founders. It was her passion for advocating for women and girls in sports that will inspire. “WISPA wishes to express its heartfelt appreciation for Julie's outstanding work and unwavering commitment to advancing the kaupapa of women in sport and recreation,” the organization said.

Co-Chair and Co-Founder Sarah Leberman said, "On behalf of the WISPA Board, I want to thank Julie for her invaluable contributions as Co-Chair. Julie has been an exceptional leader and advocate for women and girls, and her passion and dedication have been truly inspiring. We will miss her greatly, but we know her legacy will continue guiding and inspiring us.

"On a personal note, I want to thank Julie for her friendship, trust, integrity and belief in our joint vision. We are a great team. For two women who did not know each other at the end of 2015, we have, together with others, achieved significant change."

WISPA is seeking applications for the position of board and Co-Chair.