The Ministry of Justice is to be congratulated for winning the Empowerment Award at the 2018 Diversity Works NZ Diversity Awards, New Zealand Law Society President Kathryn Beck says.

“The ministry is a large and diverse organisation which works in over 100 locations across New Zealand. The way its management has supported establishment of the Women’s Network is a powerful example of how cultural change can be achieved through leadership and commitment." she says.

“In just three years the Women’s Network has grown to over 730 members throughout the country. It has taken a number of innovative initiatives, including the appointment of 25 local champions and the Men as Allies campaign. Gender equality can only be gained with genuine commitment from the leadership team and  the active participation of everyone throughout a workplace.

“Karin Schofield, who is Director of Strategic Performance, set up the Network and I am sure she is justly proud of how it has succeeded.

“The legal profession has a close connection to the Ministry of Justice.  Building safe, inclusive and respectful workplaces is something that we all need to work on. I am sure lawyers will recognise and celebrate the ministry’s achievement in supporting diversity and equality.”