Ngāti Porou, Ngā Puhi
Co-Founder. Kaihautū of Tū Mātau Ora
Vanessa Mill is a member of Women in Sport Aotearoa’s He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri group and contributes lived experience, leadership, and advocacy to WISPA’s kaupapa. She brings a strong commitment to equity, inclusion and representation, supporting work that amplifies diverse voices and strengthens pathways for wāhine across the sport system.
Ness is Kaihautū of Tū Mātau Ora is founded on the vision of Mātauranga Māori informing positive outcomes for individuals, communities and environments. Sharing Taonga Tākaro (traditional Māori games and activities) as a fun, safe way for everyone to engage in Māori customs and culture.
Get to know Vanessa (Ness) Mill
Sport that shaped you the most?
Poiuka/Softball
Your leadership superpower?
Whanaungatanga/Relationships
Whats one thing you care deeply about changing in sport?
Diversity, Inclusivity and Equity: I have a strong desire to ensure that everyone, regardless of background, race, gender identity, or ability have equitable opportunities in sport. This also involves addressing systemic discrimination in leadership positions.
What are you most excited to contribute as part of the WISPA board?
I'm genuinely excited to contribute to the WISPA board, particularly my lived experience and knowledge as a wahine Māori, tikanga Māori and values, and the magic Taonga Tākaro/Traditional Māori kēmu/games.
Favourite Womens Sport Platform
Ngā Wāhine Hākinakina o Aotearoa – WISPA