Rural Women New Zealand national president Sandra Matthews

1.What has “breaking the glass ceiling” in agriculture meant for you, and how have you navigated spaces where women are under-represented?

Breaking the glass ceiling is an interesting term. I haven't felt I have done that as there are so many trailblazers who have come before me.  I made a decision many years ago that if I see somewhere there is a need for diversity of thought to benefit our rural communities, then I would do my best to get involved.  There are so many areas that women are under-represented, although I do see change happening with more and more men understanding that women bring a different voice to discussions and should be included and valued.  It wasn't easy and still isn't, although I always refer to my values and touch base with my personal champions when navigating these spaces gets a tad challenging.
2. Can you share the turning points or experiences that most shaped your journey into governance and leadership?

I remember working in a local bank as a relationship manager when I moved to the farm.   On Thursdays the male managers went and played golf to network while the women managers stayed behind and worked.  This infuriated me as I had not experienced this before in other countries in my senior banking career. I vowed then I would work in the future for women to be included in networking and conversations that affected them and their work.  I never really considered myself a leader, I am someone who supports and lifts others up, and mucks in to get things done.  It was the support of other women around NZ that believed in me and encouraged me to recognise and own my leadership strengths that led me into the area of governance.

3. What obstacles have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them to reach the role you hold today?

I have had a couple of times when I missed out on being voted onto industry Boards, which knocked my confidence a great deal.  At times the dreaded imposter syndrome knocked on my door (like it does everyone's), usually after these setbacks and when there has been personal and work stress that collide. I have found that so many people have been supportive of me during different stages in my career, those that believed in me already, and those that when they got to know me became my champion as well.  I tend to lean on these people, my people, that support me but are also very honest with me and get me back on track.  Recognising where my circle of control sits helps me overcome obstacles and rebuilds by resilience reserves again.

4.How do you think more women can be encouraged into decision-making and leadership roles across agriculture?

It is up to us as leaders to encourage and support other women, of all ages and stages.  Taking the first step on an AWDT personal confidence building programme is valuable, it helps to build a network and to find those women who could become your 'tribe'.  Attend a Rural Women NZ local event and talk to other women at these, put yourself out of your comfort zone and go to something local and learn about what roles you can start with in your own community.  I encourage others by connecting and saying "hey, X is on how about going?"  Making decisions in leadership roles is sometimes not easy, but when connecting with others who have kind words of support will help build their confidence to 'give it a go'.  I have been encouraged by some amazing women who gave me their time, so my mantra is "pay it forward".

5. What changes do you hope to see over the next decade for women in leadership, and what role will women play in shaping the future of our food and fibre sector?

I hope to see women who are growing in their leadership confidence put their hands up and be given the opportunity to lead in a way that may be different to how it was done in the past.  The ones who are a bit quieter be encouraged to take the step and know those already in senior roles are supporting them and being their champions.  Women are the future of our industry, but I see it is a partnership of both women and men of all ages and stages who can learn from each other, support growth in each other, and this is what will shape our exciting food and fibre sector future.

6.If you had to describe rural women in three words, what would they be?

Strong, connected and determined