Women’s Hall of Fame welcomes new inductees

Adara Group founder, Audette Excel, Fisher Funds founder Carmel Fisher and global fashion icon Karen Walker have been inducted into the New Zealand Hall of Fame for Women Entrepreneurs, championed by leading female business organisation, Co.OfWomen.
 
Theresa Gattung, a leading businesswoman and Chair of Co.OfWomen, says the Hall of Fame celebrates women who have become influential figures in their particular industries through building formidable businesses.
“The remarkable business acumen, drive and generosity shown by the women inducted tonight is testament to the diversity of talented female entrepreneurs we have in New Zealand,” says Theresa.   
The women inducted were selected in an open nomination process launched by Co.OfWomen during Women Entrepreneurs Week, running from March 6 to the 10th. Chosen by a panel of their peers, these women were selected for their significant achievements in business, their support for other women and for their philanthropic activities.

Co.OfWoman founder Tara Lorigan, who was made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Business and Women in 2016, says the “Co.OfWomen works with female entrepreneurs right across the spectrum to enable them to harness their commercial potential. 
Audette, Carmel and Karen have paved the way for others in their chosen industries setting potent examples for women entrepreneurs who want to go far.”

Female-owned businesses make up 38 percent of New Zealand business, according to Statistics New Zealand, and the number of women opting for business ownership over employment continues to grow.
The number of female-owned businesses has grown by 20% since 2000.