My background spans management, design, marketing and governance and I have a bachelor's degree in Clothing and Textile Science from the University of Otago. I was managing director of Silkbody clothing for 17 years, creating internationally award-winning products with markets across Europe, the UK and Asia. This business was sold in 2018 and I focussed on consultancy work and further education, developing several accommodation properties at the same time. Community work is important to me. I have served on the Advisory Board to the Applied Science Programme at the University of Otago and on the board of Startup Dunedin. I was also the chair and co-founder of Dunedin Designed Inc, the society behind the Guild store of Dunedin designers. I currently enjoy showcasing the city's online stores on the Dunedin Online directory I created with partner Sam Clarkson in 2013. My community roles at present include facilitator of a cycleway project for the north coast communities of Dunedin city, the secretary of the Hawksbury Lagoon Society and treasurer of Karitane School Board of Trustees.Since completing a fresh round of study in horticulture, garden design and construction in 2021, I have been interested in creating practical and inspiring gardens. I particularly like to include natives where appropriate. Plant selection is so important in our changing environment. Every garden has its unique charms and issues. Good garden design provides satisfying solutions for a site’s individuality. I'm building my portfolio so please get in touch if you want help with your green spaces! I have also completed the NZ Certificate in Land Based Sustainability Practices, which builds on my horticulture knowledge and my desire to make a difference with all work that I do.My business development role at Oritain Global (I joined the team in 2022), ties together all my experience and passions: textiles, business and sustainability. Oritain Global provides data insights and scientific traceability for brands wanting transparency in their sourcing, enabling consumers to make more informed buying decisions and tackling issues such as deforestation and modern slavery in supply chains.