Kia ora koutou,
Welcome to Arotake-Makariri, our Winter Review. It's an opportunity to reflect on the past six months and thank everyone who has contributed to Aspen NZ's work - our participants, contributers and supporters. Your engagement makes these conversations and programmes possible.
Recent months have been a reminder of how quickly the world can change. Conflict in the Middle East, intensifying geopolitical competition and growing economic uncertainty have reinforced that events far beyond our shores impact New Zealand's security, prosperity and choices.
For a small, outward-looking country, the question is no longer whether these global shifts affect us, but how we respond. How do we remain economically resilient, strategically connected and secure in a contested world?
Finding New Zealand's place under these changing paradigms has become the thread running through Aspen NZ's work. It's reflected in the conversations we've hosted, the relationships we've strengthened and the leadership capability we're building.
A few highlights:
Launched the Aspen NZ Security Programme, connecting leaders across sectors to examine the strategic issues shaping New Zealand's security, resilience and prosperity.
Hosted Security Dialogues in Auckland and Wellington exploring the global developments redefining New Zealand's strategic environment.
Held Debugging Decision Making in Queenstown, helping business and community leaders strengthen judgement and decision making.
Awarded two Global Changemakers' scholarships for emerging New Zealand leaders to attend the Global Changemakers Workshop in India.
Welcomed Dr Ángel Cabrera as the incoming President and CEO of the Aspen Institute (U.S.).
Coming up, the Aspen NZ Security Forum will address how New Zealand can stay economically credible, technologically capable and strategically connected in a less predictable world.
Strengthening New Zealand's place in a contested world is a collective effort, and none of this happens without people choosing to be part of it. Whether you've participated in a programme, partnered with us, supported our work or are considering getting involved for the first time, thank you. We hope you'll continue to be part of the journey.
Ngā mihi - Christine and the Aspen Institute NZ team