Nearly 400 Women Came Together to Embrace Evolving Boldly at the 2026 Business Women’s Network Speaker Series
Baycourt was buzzing on 25 June as women from across the Bay of Plenty and beyond gathered for the 2026 Business Women’s Network Speaker Series. Centred around this year’s theme, Evolving Boldly, the event brought together professionals, business owners, leaders, and emerging talent for an afternoon of inspiring conversations, fresh perspectives, and practical ideas to take back into everyday life.
Attendees enjoyed an experience that extended well beyond the theatre. From interactive partner activations and delicious hospitality to opportunities to discover local businesses, every element was designed to create an engaging and memorable afternoon.
The programme featured four remarkable women, each sharing a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, wellbeing, and personal growth.
Broadcasting icon Hilary Barry closed the event with warmth, humour, and honesty. Reflecting on her career and life experiences, Hilary encouraged attendees to embrace who they are rather than trying to fit someone else’s expectations. She spoke about the value of protecting your time, recognising that saying no can be just as important as saying yes, and choosing carefully whose opinions truly matter. Her message was a powerful reminder that authenticity is not only personally fulfilling, but also one of our greatest strengths in business.
Award winning podcaster and somatic sexologist Morgan Penn challenged attendees to slow down and pay attention to their inner voice. Drawing on her own career transition, Morgan spoke about backing yourself, even when the path ahead feels uncertain. One of the afternoon’s most memorable takeaways was that confidence doesn’t always come before action. More often, courage is what allows confidence to grow.
Military veteran and leadership expert Ellen Joan Ford encouraged the audience to think differently about success in the workplace. She shared that people perform at their best when they have purpose and fulfilment beyond their jobs, and that great leaders recognise the whole person, not just the employee. Ellen also challenged attendees to stop trying to become the person others expect them to be and instead lead from a place that is genuine and true to themselves.
Closing the speaker lineup before Hilary, Jacinta Horan, Director of Bureta Physiotherapy and winner of the 2026 Tauranga Business Awards Excellent Woman in Leadership category, drew on her experience working with elite athletes and leading a successful business. She explored the mindset of high performers, encouraging attendees to replace self criticism with curiosity by asking, “What can I learn from this?” rather than dwelling on setbacks. Jacinta also spoke openly about the realities of balancing leadership, family, and motherhood, reminding women that guilt rarely serves anyone and that giving yourself permission to be enough is an important part of long term success.
While each speaker brought a different story and perspective, a common thread emerged throughout the afternoon. Growth comes from embracing change, trusting yourself, and being willing to step forward, even when the outcome is uncertain. The afternoon was expertly hosted by Hayley Bath from The Hits, whose warmth, quick wit, and engaging presence brought the programme together, creating an atmosphere that was both professional and enjoyable.
The Business Women’s Network Speaker Series continues to be the Bay of Plenty’s premier events for women in business, bringing together inspiring speakers, valuable insights, and an atmosphere that encourages learning, conversation, and fresh thinking.
The Tauranga Business Chamber extends its appreciation to our sponsors (particularly naming partners Cooney Lees Morgan and Craigs Investment Partners), activation providers, vendors, committee members, and everyone who contributed to making this year’s event such a success. Their commitment helped create an afternoon that left attendees inspired, challenged, and ready to continue evolving boldly.
