Ahead of International Women’s Day 2025, we had the privilege of talking to some of the mana wāhine that we are fortunate to work alongside about IWD.
From varying roles across our industry, we asked four of our clients a range of questions about who inspires them and the best pieces of advice they had been given.
Ticketmaster New Zealand is proud to celebrate and highlight the talent, creativity and strength of the women that we work with every day.
Brenna McCann, Head of Operations at Dunedin Venues
Brenna brings 15 years of extensive experience in the event industry and currently holds the position of Head of Event Operations at Dunedin Venues Management Ltd (DVML). In her role, Brenna leads a team of highly skilled and motivated professionals specialising in Event, Project, Facility, and Safety management. Her team ensures that DVML’s assets are maintained, enabling the delivery of exceptional event experiences across a range of venues, including Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin Centre, and the University of Otago Oval. Brenna’s expertise lies in operations and event management, complemented by her strong leadership skills and extensive industry relationships.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
International Women’s Day is a significant occasion for me as it celebrates the achievements of women across all industries, including the events sector. It’s a day to reflect on our progress towards gender equality and recognise the contributions of women who have paved the way. At Dunedin Venues Management Ltd (DVML), I highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion by promoting the New Zealand Events Association (NZEA) and Entertainment Venues Association of New Zealand (EVANZ) mentorship programs that support and develop talent, enriching our team and enhancing the quality of our event experiences.
Which powerful women inspire you?
I am particularly inspired by women within the events industry who step out of their comfort zones, innovate, take risks, and break down barriers. Their resilience and innovation motivate me to strive to continuously improve and to lead with purpose. I am surrounded by inspirational women, both at work and at home. From the outstanding female leaders (past and present) at Dunedin Venues to my peers across the events industry, I am constantly inspired by their dedication and achievements. Outside of work, my close-knit group of female friends inspires me with their creativity, adaptability, and determination to grow both personally and professionally.
What has been your proudest achievement throughout your career?
One of my proudest achievements has been leading the transformation of Forsyth Barr Stadium into a premier event venue. This transformation required meticulous planning, coordination, and execution, and seeing it come to fruition through the successful hosting of numerous high-profile events. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team at DVML and our commitment to delivering exceptional event experiences. Which for me then makes this answer easy, my proudest achievement throughout my career is having the privilege of developing, growing, and leading the team.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is Accelerate Action – what does this year’s theme mean to you?
The theme “Accelerate Action” resonates deeply with me as it underscores the need to support and advance gender equality. In the events industry, it means taking proactive steps to ensure equal opportunities for women, fostering an inclusive environment, and championing diversity in all aspects of our work. This includes forging women’s economic empowerment, recruiting, retaining, and developing diverse talent, and supporting women and girls into leadership and decision-making roles. It’s about pushing boundaries and driving meaningful change.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given? And what’s a piece of advice you would pass on to others?
While it wasn’t a single piece of advice, a mentor taught me the importance of staying true to my values and leading with integrity. This has guided me through many challenging situations and helped me build strong, trusting relationships in the industry. My advice to others would be to embrace continuous learning and never underestimate the power of collaboration and relationships. The events industry thrives on teamwork, and by supporting each other, we can achieve remarkable outcomes. Immerse yourself in the industry, be prepared to do the hard mahi, and find yourself a mentor. Shadow many people you admire, be present, and look for opportunities.
Lara Davis, Ticketing Operations Manager at Auckland Live
Kia ora, ko Lara Davis ahau. He uri ahau nō Te Tai Tokerau me Tonga. Ko Ngā Puhi me Te Rarawa ngā iwi. Born and raised in West Auckland, as someone that fell in love with live performance from a young age, I am proud to work in the industry that I love. Auckland Live is where my passion for live events, people, whānau and connection can come to life.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It’s a day of recognition of all the mana wāhine (powerful women) who fought against what was a male-dominated system and societal norms to make it possible for us to have the roles and rights that we currently have today. We can never forget that what we do now is still part of that ever-changing view and what will be possible for generations to come.
Which powerful women inspire you?
On the deepest level, the most powerful woman in my world is my Mum, she has taught me from a young age how to shoulder a burden, how to dry tears, how to care for my whanau and how to love unconditionally but most of all how to remain uniquely me and genuine to myself.
In saying that, as a child of Te Tai Tokerau, one of the most iconic women of the North is Dame Whina Cooper. Her march in 1975 from Te Hapua to Parliament at the age of 79 in protest of the loss of Māori land was a turning point in our history and while 1975 seems so long ago, I do ponder on how much has even changed in that time given we are in this fight still.
What has been your proudest achievement throughout your career?
The performing arts is very female led; and I am lucky to be part of an incredible group of women. It’s hard to pick one moment, there have been a few that have a special place in my heart. These include the renaming of the Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre and our talented team producing the Gala Concert and the Auckland Live Cabaret Season. I really think there is nothing like working on the large-scale musicals though. Sitting in that opening night crowd for Aladdin the Musical and watching that carpet take flight to gasps from the audience is a pretty magical experience.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is Accelerate Action – what does this year’s theme mean to you?
To uplift and empower each other forward. Create future female leaders and be inspiring for others, so that they work to not just match your knowledge and skill but overtake you
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given? And what’s a piece of advice you would pass on to others?
Not a piece of advice but a Whakatauki (proverb). He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tāngata, he tāngata he tāngata. What is the most important thing in this world? It is people, it is people, it is people. Surround yourself with amazing people, in all facets of your life. In my work life that extends to not only those that I work alongside but the artists, producers and practitioners that I have been lucky enough to meet through the years – some of who I now consider whānau.
Jen de Montalk, Performance Events Manager at WellingtonNZ
With over 15 years of experience in the events industry, Jen leads the Performance Events Team, managing performances and ticketed events at Wellington’s premier venues, including the Michael Fowler Centre, The Opera House, St James Theatre, TSB Arena, and Shed 6. Jen and her team work closely with promoters, theatre producers, resident hirers, and sports teams to bring a diverse range of exciting and memorable events to the city’s venues.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
For me, it’s a chance to reflect on how much progress has been made, especially in terms of women in leadership roles. I feel proud to work at Venues Wellington, where women hold a majority of the senior roles, showing that leadership and decision-making spaces are becoming more inclusive.
Which powerful women inspire you?
I’m inspired by women who bring others along on their journey. I’ve been fortunate to have worked alongside many strong, capable women who have shown me what great leadership looks like. Their support and example have shaped the way I work and lead today. Some of these women include Erna, my first manager, who instilled in me the importance of customer service, and my colleague, Bev Sloan, who demonstrated the value of dedication to a team and just getting things done. And Lynette Ell, who always supported me in my early days as an Event Manager and helped build my confidence as a person and in my role.
What has been your proudest achievement throughout your career?
Being in a leadership role and leading a team, passing on my experience, and supporting others in their development. Seeing their growth and successes is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is Accelerate Action – what does this year’s theme mean to you?
To me, Accelerate Action is about stepping up and leading by example. Whether it’s mentoring, advocating for better representation, or creating opportunities for others, we all have a role to play in driving change.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given? And what’s a piece of advice you would pass on to others?
The best advice I’ve received is to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. As an introvert, I’ve learned through this that my growth often happens when I’m outside of my comfort zone, whether it’s speaking up in meetings or taking on new challenges or experiences. The advice I’d pass on is to Trust yourself. Your perspective, skills, and experiences are valuable, and you belong in the spaces you step into.
Jesse Wildon, Membership and Ticketing Manager at One New Zealand Warriors
Born and raised in Auckland, I have dedicated 17 years to the sports industry, combining my passion for the game with a deep understanding of its business and community impact. Before my career in sports, I danced professionally for 18 years, and my love for music has remained a constant in my life.
Married to John and proud parent to our almost 4-year-old, Jackson, I balance work and family life while advocating for mental health. Open and honest about my ADHD and OCD diagnoses, I believe in creating safe spaces for difficult conversations—whether with friends, colleagues, or anyone who needs support.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
I’ll admit it—I love national and international “days” of recognition. Why not take every opportunity to celebrate? While we should all feel like every day is our day, these globally recognised moments allow us to highlight and uplift other women, not just ourselves. They give us a platform to hear from women in different walks of life, to amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard, and to remind every woman that they deserve to be celebrated—not just today, but every day.
Which powerful women inspire you?
I don’t have just one woman who inspires me; instead, I admire the women who carry on. The ones who push for what is right, who refuse to settle for less than they deserve, who take criticism and respond with intelligence, not malice. The women who uplift other women—without an agenda. As Brené Brown said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” The women who truly inspire me are the ones who don’t compete against others but instead champion them, creating space for more of us to thrive.
What has been your proudest achievement throughout your career?
It was always a dream of mine to work for the New Zealand Warriors, and now, three years in, the excitement still hasn’t worn off. I’ve been fortunate to be part of some incredible milestones—our Homecoming season after the team was forced to live away from their families during COVID, selling and servicing the highest membership numbers in Warriors history, and, in 2024, becoming the first NRL club to sell out every single home game in a season. Being part of this club is an achievement in itself, and the fact that I’ve played a role in shaping these moments makes it all the more rewarding.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is “Accelerate Action” – what does this theme mean to you?
Without even looking into the wider context of this theme, my immediate thought is that Accelerating Action means pushing for change and staying true to the belief that your work matters. Right now, one of my biggest passions is reimagining data management and business intelligence within our club and industry. I’m working to identify North Star Metrics that unify departments and create a single set of business rules—future-proofing our approach to customized marketing, operational efficiency, and long-term growth. Progress doesn’t happen without action, and I’m committed to making sure we move forward with purpose.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given? And what’s a piece of advice you would pass on to others?
Best advice I’ve ever been given? Don’t try to pluck your own eyebrows when you’re 14–16. Oh, wait—you meant life advice? I tend to have a new guiding mantra every few months, but right now, it’s “LET THEM” by the incredible Mel Robbins. This mindset has been a game-changer: Someone doesn’t like you? Let them. A group of old friends meets up without you? Let them. People make choices that don’t make sense to you? Let them.
We never truly know what’s happening in other people’s lives and wasting energy trying to control or overanalyse their actions is exhausting. Instead, focus on what makes you happy and the people who choose to show up for you. Life is too short to chase validation—just LET THEM.
