​BGS NZ is pleased to announce the release of the inaugural and monthly issue of Member Spotlight — a new BGS NZ feature and member benefit. These monthly articles are designed to give you, our members, an opportunity to learn about your BGS NZ peers. Whether it is providing you a glimpse into people’s life journeys, or insights into their professional careers, the Member Spotlight articles will be sure to instinctively draw you closer to others within the BGS NZ community.
  
In this first issue titled ‘FROM CIVIL WAR ESCAPEE TO INTERNATIONALLY HONOURED BUSINESS GRADUATE,’ we talked with April Shwe about her transition from Burma to New Zealand as a refugee, and her life journey since then. A truly inspiring story. 

In December of 2019, we asked members if they could complete a short survey around what is working for BGS NZ and any areas for improvement. A big thanks for all those who provided feedback. Some great comments and suggestions!

Mario, BGS NZ President, gave a very interesting presentation on the topic of angel investing. When you want to grow and scale your business, where do you go for support and finances? Astrolab, is one such company who can help. Thanks Mario! ​

A big congratulations for the latest cohort of BGS inductees from Auckland University.  Here are a few pictures from the induction ceremony. ​

Mark Pesce is a futurist, inventor, author, entrepreneur and broadcaster. He has been at the forefront of the digital revolution for thirty-five years. AUT gave three BGS members the opportunity to attend this sought after event. A fantastic evening with many thought provoking ideas. ​

A big thanks to AUT for providing BGS members a few complementary tickets to the WINTalk Project Connect Series with Phoebe Tickell on the topic of 'designing organisations to be more human.' This event was sold out, so the BGS members who were able to secure a seat were very fortunate. A lot of great discussions and a few controversial topics coming up from time-to-time made for an enjoyable evening. ​

Another big thanks to AUT for providing BGS an opportunity to be part of the INFINZ annual conference. Many great speakers, including Sir John Key, shared their view of NZ's economy and leadership needs going forward. Very interesting and thought provoking. ​