Keynote speakers

MC, Karen O’Leary
A natural performer, Karen made her acting debut in Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement’s cult-classic feature What We Do in the Shadows. Her head-turning performance as Officer O’Leary led to the comedy spin-off series Wellington Paranormal, a show that is broadcast around the world in over 100 countries, including on HBO Max in the US. She has enjoyed roles in features Millie Lies Low and SXSW darlings The Breaker Upperers and Nude Tuesday, as well as television’s Educators and two seasons of comedy The Eggplant. Karen developed exceptional communication skills in her two decades as an early childhood educator and uses those skills to great effect as both a presenter and an MC. She is a charismatic, hilarious, and charming presence whose services are highly sought after.

Hon. Brooke van Velden
Hon Brooke van Velden is the Minister of Internal Affairs and for Workplace Relations and Safety. Brooke left the private sector to work behind the scenes in Parliament to help pass the End of Life Choice Act.Qualified in international trade and economics, Brooke has also been a factory worker and corporate affairs consultant. She was elected to Parliament as an ACT Party MP in 2020, returning as MP for Tāmaki in 2023.

Benjamin Hemi
Trustee
Ko Wetekia te Maunga
Ko Whakatu te Marae
Ko Ngati Koata te Iwi
 
Benjamin is the Health and Safety Adviser for Tainui group holdings, is a trustee for TRMA and previously Ngati Koata. He has an in-depth knowledge of planning and running major events and projects and has over 30 years of experience in working with local, regional, national and international organisations. His guiding influence is to do what you say and be a person of your word. Kia Kaha, Kia Mau, Kia Manuwanui.

Jodhi Warwick-Ponga
Trustee - Te Rōpū Marutau o Aotearoa (TRMA)
Head of Programmes and Apprenticeships – Vertical Horizonz
Ko Tākitimu te waka, ko Aorangi te maunga, ko Ruamahanga te awa, ko Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa tōku iwi.
 
Jodhi is embedded in the heart of NZ's health and safety community, known for her volunteer contributions in championing culturally responsive work practices. As a Senior Manager at Vertical Horizonz, she brings her vast experience in health, safety, and education to elevate the standards of work-based training. However, it's her voluntary service that sets her apart. As a trustee for Te Rōpū Marutau o Aotearoa, she accentuates her dedication to community well-being and safer workplaces. Her work with Haumaru Tangata promotes safety and wellness in workplaces, emphasising Māori perspectives and leadership diversity. Jodhi's efforts to support the review of health, safety, and wellbeing qualifications showcase her commitment to safer environments. Embodying mana tangata, she advocates a holistic, culturally attuned approach to health, safety and wellbeing.

Shamubeel Eaqub

Shamubeel Eaqub is an experienced economist who makes economics easy. He is also an author, media commentator and a thought leading public speaker. 
He has over two decades of experience as an economist in Wellington, Melbourne and Auckland in leading international banks and consultancy. He currently balances a portfolio of consulting, public speaking, governance and family duties. 
He holds a BCOM with Honours in Economics from Lincoln University and is also a Chartered Financial Analyst. He lives in Auckland with his wife and two sons.