Success Through Inspiration: DWN Conference 2026 Sets the Stage for Change

The Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) Conference 2026 – Success Through Inspiration, proudly supported by Bayleys Canterbury, is shaping up to be our biggest, boldest and most empowering event yet.

This two-day experience has been thoughtfully designed to ignite ambition, build confidence and inspire action that makes a genuine difference – on farm, in business and in life.

Bringing together some of the most compelling voices in leadership, wellbeing, succession and generational change, DWN Conference 2026 promises not to just inspire, but learn practical insights and have meaningful conversations that attendees will carry with them long after the final session.

A powerful beginning

The conference opens with an inspiring Welcome Breakfast, hosted by Fonterra in partnership with Global Women. This powerful start brings together connection, conversation and leadership, with the opportunity to engage with members of Global Women and hear from influential voices shaping the future of Aotearoa.

We are honoured to welcome guest speaker Dame Theresa Gattung – trailblazing business leader, philanthropist, investor, Chair of Global Women and co-founder of My Food Bag. As the first female CEO of an NZX-listed company, Dame Theresa brings deep insight into leadership, governance and purpose-driven success.

Four keynote speakers. Four unique perspectives.

The DWN Conference 2026 keynote lineup brings together four exceptional keynotes, each offering a distinct perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping our industry and communities.

Jehan Casinader – Generation Next

Award-winning journalist, keynote speaker and mental health advocate, Jehan explores how Gen Z is reshaping the world of work. This generation is asking deeper questions about purpose, loyalty and fulfilment – and traditional approaches no longer work. Jehan will challenge stereotypes, share how storytelling can attract and retain young talent, and offer tools for better conversations with the next generation, including within farming families. His session is engaging, insightful and deeply human.

Karen Penfold – Courageous Conversations

CFO of the Penfold Family Group and co-founder of Four Daughters Beef, Karen brings a practical and relatable perspective on family business and succession. Drawing on her own family’s journey, she now empowers others to take the first brave step and start the conversations that secure strong futures for families and farms.

Sacha Coburn – Leading from the Inside Out

As COO of Coffee Culture, Sacha Coburn leads 300 staff across 20 locations and understands leadership under pressure. A former lawyer, Harvard Business School OPM graduate and Prime Minister’s Business Scholarship winner, Sacha blends research with real-world experience. Her session explores how to honour the past while leading with integrity into an uncertain future – for families, teams and communities.

Te Radar – Perspective with Punch

One of New Zealand’s most recognisable entertainers, Te Radar brings wit, intelligence and fresh perspective. Brought to you by Ballance Agri-Nutrients, the multi-award-winning comedian and documentary maker, delivers thought-provoking insights with humour and heart, engaging audiences across agriculture and beyond.

An unforgettable celebration

The conference will culminate in a show-stopping “Night at the Races” Gala Dinner, held at the iconic Addington Raceway in Christchurch. This glamorous evening will feature gourmet dining, live entertainment and the announcement of the 2026 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year – a celebration of excellence, leadership and impact within our sector.

DWN Conference 2026 – Success Through Inspiration is more than an event. It’s a space to pause, reflect, connect and reimagine what success looks like – together.

Come be part of something extraordinary at Addington Raceway & Events Centre, Christchurch, on Tuesday 5 May – Wednesday 6 May 2026.