Meet the #NationalY
Aaminah Ghani | Co-president
Aaminah is a purpose-driven leader whose governance journey has been centred on youth leadership, equity, and systemic change. Raised in Kirikiriroa, she is committed to ensuring diverse voices are not just included but actively shaping decision-making at every level. As the former Chair of YWCA Tāmaki Makaurau and now Chair of YWCA Aotearoa, Aaminah has championed inclusive leadership, strategic growth, and impactful advocacy. Her governance experience spans corporate, non-profit, and community sectors, where she has worked to strengthen governance structures, drive innovation, and foster long-term sustainability. Aaminah’s leadership has seen her contribute to national and international conversations on governance, youth leadership, and equity. She has spoken across Aotearoa and at the United Nations in New York, sharing insights on reimagining governance to be more inclusive and future-focused. With a global perspective and a strong foundation in governance, Aaminah is committed to building resilient organisations, empowering emerging leaders, and driving meaningful change through robust, values-based leadership.
Charlotte Muggeridge | Co-president
Charlotte holds a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Arts (major – Political Science) as well as a Masters degree in Political Science and in 2022, was was awarded the Property Council Central Region Judge’s Choice award in recognition of her contribution to the law industry of Aotearoa. Charlotte has rendered service in numerous leadership positions including as a previous board member for YWCA Hamilton and current Vice President of YWCA World. Charlotte brings a wealth of legal and governance experience to the national board.
Deeksha Bansal | Board Treasurer
Deeksha Bansal, a first-generation New Zealand-born Indian, has built a career in finance and leadership spanning over 10 years. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce with First Class Honors from the University of Auckland and is a qualified Chartered Accountant. Deeksha has played pivotal roles in significant projects and strategic initiatives, showcasing her expertise in financial management and business planning. Passionate about mentorship and diversity, she actively participates in various mentoring and leadership development initiatives. Deeksha is inspired by and dedicated to supporting YWCA's mission of empowering women and fostering social change.
Hawwa Niyaz | Board Intern
Hawwa Niyaz is a dynamic young woman from New Zealand, renowned for her dedication to women's empowerment, inclusivity, and breaking the barrier of singular stories. Born in the Maldives, she is currently studying a Conjoint Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts majoring in International Relations and Political Science. She is an engaged and active member of her communities, making meaningful contributions to her former high school, current university, and local initiatives. One of her highlights was receiving a plaque in Ōtautahi, recognising her efforts. In 2023, Hawwa was one of two delegates to represent New Zealand at the YWCA World Council. She was also part of the Y25 cohort in 2022 and returned in 2023 as a member of the selection panel. Hawwa is the founder of the Beautiful Light Nurzainah Charitable Trust focused on diversity and promoting social cohesion in Aotearoa.
Toni Corby-Brown
Toni Brown is the Administrative Assistant for a law firm and also works part time at Mahinga Innovation Centre and has been involved with the YWCA in various ways since she was 19 years old. She started out as the Young Women’s Coordinator with the YWCA of Whangarei in 2004. Toni has experience in the operations of overseas MAs, filling an administrative role/internship for the YWCA of Queensland for just over a year during a 10-year period of residency in Australia. After moving home and relocating to Kaikohe, Northland. Toni currently serves on the board of the Whangarei MA. She thoroughly enjoyed her previous role coordinating programmes and initiatives on behalf of the YWCA Whangarei and is seeking further opportunities to give more back to her local community, to the YWCA, and to the young women the Y serves.
Sumita Paul
Sumita’s 23-year long career has been in the fiduciary and investment sector where she administered and managed a portfolio of charitable trusts that were major funders of education, arts, medical and agricultural research, in her roles as a Client Manager and later Investment and Philanthropy Partner at Perpetual Guardian. Sumita is a Certified Financial Planner, a qualified Financial Adviser and has over 16 years experience providing financial advice and investment management services. She founded Athena Wealth NZ, an independent financial planning practice that has focused on empowering women by helping them with a comprehensive financial plan to enable financial independence. Sumita is the Board Chair of the Grief Centre.
Lushomo Thebe
Lushomo is a trailblazer, weaving her Zambian-Kiwi heritage into the fabric of leadership. As a barrister and solicitor of the High Court, she practices at Aotearoa’s leading law firm, Chapman Tripp. With over five years of governance experience, Lushomo has distinguished herself in boardrooms as a company director, trustee, and board chair, skillfully overcoming age barriers and making a significant impact. Currently, she is a Board Member on the YWCA National Board, contributing her expertise as a member of the Finance Risk and Audit Committee. Her legal acumen is complemented by her academic achievements as a former PwC scholar, having pursued a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Business (Finance). During her studies, Lushomo demonstrated her leadership prowess by being twice elected as the Student Union President, where she fervently advocated for inclusive and equitable spaces for all learners on both national and international platforms. Her commitment to education and governance is further exemplified by her role as a Council member on the University of Waikato’s governing body. In 2022, Lushomo's remarkable contributions were recognized when she was named on the Y25, an annual accolade celebrating 25 women under 25 who are trailblazers and change-makers in Aotearoa New Zealand. Beyond her professional roles, Lushomo is a sought-after speaker, mentor, and multi-disciplinary advisor. She is celebrated for her authentic leadership, her advocacy for women's and migrant rights, and her unwavering dedication to advancing these causes.