Keynote Speakers
Dr Hana O'Regan
Kia kakapa ai te manawa o te tini - so that the hearts of all beats strong: Leading for equity, leading for hope
This presentation will discuss the impact of recent policy changes in education on the Māori learner and their whānau today, and the ongoing likely impacts into the future. Within this context, we will discuss what is required to lead for hope in a time of significant challenge and controversy, in order to ensure all learners are able to envision an equitable future where all hearts beat strong
Dr Hana O’Regan is of Kāi Tahu and Pākehā (Irish, Scottish & Welsh) descent. Raised in Wellington, she moved to Te Waipounamu at 21 as a lecturer at Otago University.
Hana has worked in the areas of language revitalisation, identity and cultural development, te reo Māori and education for over 30 years. She is a published author and composer and is recognised internationally for her work in indigenous language acquisition and revitalisation. A graduate of Te Panekiretanga – Institute of Excellence in Te Reo Māori, Hana is respected for her Māori language contribution, skills and advocacy. Hana’s passion for education and community, history and equity has resulted in a career committed to working with organisations, businesses and individuals to support and enhance positive outcomes for learners and whānau.
Hana has a long history of governance and has sat on numerous national panels, reviews and advisories across education, health, Māori development and community development.
She is one of the founders of the Kāi Tahu tribal language strategy, Kotahi Mano Kāika, Kotahi Mano Wawata, which was launched by the tribe in 2000 and continues to teach te reo, karaka and composition within her Kāi Tahu community.
Hana was appointed to the Waitangi Tribunal in 2021 and held the position of Tumu Whakarae of Tātai Aho Rau Core Education from late 2020 - April 2025.
Digby Scott
For 25 years, I've walked alongside leaders who sense that something's off.
The relentless pace. The constant demands. The expectations that seem impossible to meet.
You're not alone.
Working with purpose-led leaders, I've discovered a better way to create impact while sustaining what matters most.
I work with teams and individuals to shift from hero to host, creating space for leadership to emerge.
My approach isn't about following someone else's blueprint.
It's about finding your unique path while honouring your energy, your relationships, and your vision.
I reckon that's what the world needs more of.
I wonder if you do too?
Keynote description to come
Lee Vellenoweth
Doing What’s Right, Not What’s Easy
Lea Vellenoweth shares her personal journey as Tumuaki of Te Kura Matua o Wainuiomata, reflecting on what it means to lead with humility, courage, and purpose. Her leadership story is shaped by a rich and varied education journey from Horowhenua College to Marlborough Girls’ College, Outward Bound, Women’s prisons, Opotiki College, and as a founding member of Hobsonville Point Secondary School. Each step has deepened her commitment to equity, service, and transformational leadership.
Grounded in the principles of servant leadership, Lea explores the everyday acts that model care, connection, and responsibility. She speaks to the importance of walking the talk, co-constructing a clear and values-based vision with whānau, staff, and ākonga, and anchoring leadership in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the wisdom of mana whenua.
Lea’s story is one of unexpected leadership, shaped by inspirational mentors and a deep commitment to doing what’s right, even when it’s hard. She challenges us to rethink leadership not as authority, but as service, as relationships; to create environments where people thrive, not just survive. She invites us to imagine kura where rangatahi come because they want to, not because they have to and reminds us that if we keep doing the same, we’ll keep getting the same.