People Doing Good in the World with Stuart Batty

Stuart talks with a person of action creating positive change in their communities. Reflecting on 2025, Jill Hawkey speaks about her work with the Methodist Central Mission and Kate Russell about her current role with Hagar International. The Christchurch Methodist Mission makes a difference in the lives of over three thousand people every year, often on a daily basis. Hagar is an international not-for-profit organisation on a mission to restore life and dignity for survivors of modern slavery and to prevent exploitation and abuse.

Originally from Oologah, Oklahoma, Lane earned his doctorate in New Zealand. With 20
years of higher education experience, he focuses on applied innovation, creativity, and
entrepreneurship. His work centers on community impact and guiding students toward
meaningful purpose through two mantras:
1.) Become a part of something bigger than you, but better because of you.
2.) The only thing better than watching someone grow is helping them grow.

Kate has spent 33 years working in the community sector, in governance and executive roles Her skills in the area of strategic planning, policy development etc. also as a Board Member, Director and Chair of several trusts and advisory committees and currently the Executive Director of Hagar International NZ, an International NGO fighting to rid the world of slavery and human trafficking, assisting victims to re-create their lives and recover, in South East Asia, Afghanistan and the Pacific.

My Guest is Nell Gardyne, a young 98 year old born on the West Coat. Father owned hotel in Kumara. Mother died when Nell was 4, and all eight children sent to care with Nell to Nazareth House on Brougham Street, Christchurch, a Catholic institution established by the Sisters of Nazareth in 1905, both a home for girls and an orphanage at that time. Her story is one of resilience in spite of many challenges along the way. Sight impaired, Nell continues to lead an active life in her own home.

Guest Fay Leonard joined Women’s Institute in 1998, following her mother being a member in Otira years before. Faye remembered the speakers, competitions, baking and outings that her mother enjoyed, and so when Fay learnt WI coming out of recess in Kaiapoi, was quick to join. In 2018 she became National President. During her four years in that role, a highlight was the celebration in February 2021 of WI's 100 years in New Zealand. Host Stuart will also talk a recent visit to Tonga and Samoa.