About PDCNZ

Our Story

A charitable trust built by new Kiwis, for new Kiwis.

Diverse professionals working together
2025 Established
Who We Are

Empowering New Kiwi Professionals

Professionals Development Council New Zealand (PDCNZ) is a charitable trust committed to advancing professional growth across Aotearoa. Our mission is to empower new Kiwi individuals through connections and advocacy.

We focus on upskilling and reskilling new Kiwi professionals by directing them to the right resources, fostering networking and mentorship, advocating for professional development through thought leadership, and promoting diversity and inclusion across all sectors.

Nov 2025

Inaugural Event

PDCNZ launched at the Dowse Art Museum, Lower Hutt, with dignitaries and community leaders.

Dec 2025

Auckland Meetup

Team meetup and professionals networking dinner at Des Traditions, Auckland.

Jun 2026

Webinar Series

First Job Seekers & Employment Support webinar delivered online.

2026

Mentorship Pilot

Expressions of interest opened for the PDCNZ Mentorship Pilot Program.

Our Mission

To support and advance the professional growth of new Kiwi individuals across all sectors by providing accessible development opportunities, fostering collaboration, and shaping future-ready talent for Aotearoa New Zealand through connections and advocacy.

Our Vision

A thriving New Zealand workforce where every new Kiwi professional is empowered with the skills, knowledge, and connections to excel and lead in a rapidly changing world.

Our Values

01

Excellence

Striving for the highest standards in professional development and lifelong learning.

02

Inclusivity

Supporting new Kiwi professionals from all backgrounds, cultures and stages of their careers.

03

Collaboration

Building partnerships with industry, government and communities to create impactful outcomes.

04

Innovation

Embracing new ideas, tools and approaches to meet evolving workforce needs.

What We Work Towards

Our strategic goals and the people leading PDCNZ.

University Leadership
Strategic Goals

Building a Future-Ready Workforce for Aotearoa

PDCNZ works towards five strategic goals: upskilling and reskilling, networking and mentorship, diversity and inclusion, advocacy and thought leadership, and sustainable growth.

Upskilling & Reskilling

Directing new Kiwi professionals to targeted programs that meet industry needs and emerging trends.

Networking & Mentorship

Creating platforms that connect professionals, mentors and thought leaders.

Diversity & Inclusion

Promoting equitable access to opportunities for migrants, women and underrepresented groups.

Advocacy & Thought Leadership

Representing professional development interests in policy discussions.

Sustainable Growth

Building a robust organisation with long-term financial and operational sustainability.

Executive Leadership

Meet the People Leading PDCNZ

Our executive team volunteers their time and expertise to support new Kiwi professionals across Aotearoa.

Dr Waqar Qureshi, President

Dr Waqar Qureshi

President
Ms Sumaira Nasim, Vice President Operations

Ms Sumaira Nasim

Vice President Operations
Khadijah Inayat, Vice President Finance

Ms Khadijah Inayat

Vice President Finance