Two exceptional local government professionals, Natasha Stubbing and Shyamal Ram are this year's winners of the The AskYourTeam Emerging Leader of the Year Award.
The AskYourTeam Emerging Leader of the Year Award is presented every year to an up-and-coming leader with a proven track record of designing and delivering innovative and successful programmes, projects, processes or practices with an identifiable community impact.
This year, for the first time in the award's history, we have two recipients:
- Natasha Stubbing, Marketing and Engagement Manager, Northland Regional Council
- Shyamal Ram, General Manager Infrastructure Services, Waitomo District Council
The Judges said "The judges were extremely impressed by the caliber of the applications received, highlighting the breadth of leadership talent across local government. Ultimately, the judges were unable to separate the two winners and our thanks go to AskYourTeam for enabling us to recognize two recipients this year instead of- the usual one."
Natasha has demonstrated a commitment to a career in local government and serving her community. Her career exemplifies what a pathway in local government can look like. The judges were impressed by Natasha’s commitment to working with her community to increase engagement, particularly in democratic participation across the diverse communities within Te Tai Tokerau. She strives to ensure Te Ao Māori and tangata whenua values are considered through the Council’s engagement and decision-making processes. Natasha has also led programmes to support ākonga and tertiary students to explore a career in local government. Her career to date left the judges in no doubt that she will continue to grow her career in local government. Congratulations Natasha.
Shyamal impressed the judges with his willingness to share his knowledge and expertise across the sector and with other technical experts. He has been heavily involved in significant capital projects at both Waitomo and Ashburton District Councils. He has demonstrated an authentic desire to deliver inter-generational benefits that will provide a lasting impact for the communities that he serves. Congratulations Shyamal.
The recipients will travel to Columbus in the United States to attend the 2022 ICMA Conference.
For further information, please see the 2022 Awards Media Pack.