Vanisa Dhiru

Vanisa Dhiru has an extensive background within the NGO and voluntary sector. During her career she has been in Chief Executive roles including CEO of Volunteering New Zealand, and Executive Director of the 20/20 Trust (focusing on supporting digital inclusion for all New Zealanders).

Alongside her NZ National Commission of UNESCO role she is a commissioner with the Library & Information Advisory Commission, and holds advisory and panel roles for NGOs and government departments.

Vanisa's key achievements include supporting a NGO delegation to the United Nations in 2018; becoming a Chief Executive before the age of 30; and being made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit as part of the 2021 New Year’s Honours for services to the community and gender rights.

She is currently appointed to the Department of Internal Affairs He Tohu Board, Lottery Wellington-Wairarapa Community Committee, the Spark Foundation and Victoria University’s School of Business & Government Advisory Board. She is a member of the global BMW Foundation Responsible Leaders Network, Global Women NZ, and the Institute of Directors NZ.

Manawatū-born Indian Vanisa is passionate about challenging equity issues, developing young people and cultural relations.