DuluxGroup is all for a gender-equal future.

We are committed to promoting and supporting equity in our workplace and beyond. We value diversity, strength of character, professional skills and perseverance. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the mana wāhine – the employees, customers, and through our brand partnerships.

Only 27% of registered architects in New Zealand are women, even though graduates from architecture schools have been roughly equal for more than 15 years. Diversity and inclusion are essential to fostering innovation and creativity. Dulux partners with Architecture + Women NZ to spotlight women in architecture in New Zealand so that there are more role models for future generations. For years, Dulux NZ has supported Architecture + Women NZ in delivering its triennial awards programme which recognises leadership, diversity and excellence of women working in the field of architecture.

There are three award categories, including one that is open to all genders so everyone can be involved in the nomination process.
Chrystall Excellence Award - celebrating women who have led expanded and full careers in architecture.
Munro Diversity Award - celebrating outstanding individuals or practices who promote diversity in architecture.
Wirihana Leadership Award - celebrating women leaders in architecture who are in their second decade beyond graduation.

"We are delighted to partner with Dulux New Zealand to support our mission of empowering women in architecture," said Megan Rule, Co-Founder A+W NZ. "Together, we can create a more healthy, equitable and inclusive industry for all."

Recently, Dulux supported the publication of the book Making Space: A history of New Zealand women in architecture. Written by leading women architects, the book tells the story of their contribution to the creativity, built environment and community of New Zealand.

Photo Caption: Making Space: A history of New Zealand women in architecture, proudly supported by Dulux.

When it comes to the trades, Dulux also extends full support for BCITO (Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation) through their Mana Wahine Connection events. These events have been created to promote the building and construction sector for women considering a career in the trades, showcase women’s roles in building and rebuilding communities, and facilitate networking.

Dulux has also started working with Women in Trades, a non-profit organisation that helps young women consider trade as a profession and create more apprenticeship opportunities by providing resources that enable their attendees to give trades a go through their events.

Women are great candidates for a skilled trade career, and Dulux supports these organisations that contribute to a more gender-equal future.

Photo Caption: Dulux at the Women in Trades event in Auckland, August 2022

Dulux is an official partner of New Zealand Cricket, which includes NZ Women’s National Cricket Team nicknamed The White Ferns. Dulux is proud to back the White Ferns, who are an inspiration to future generations of female cricketers.

Photo Caption: Dulux proud partners of NZ Cricket, including The White Ferns (Photo: Photosport)

Speaking on International Women’s Day, Trade Sales & Marketing Manager Shontelle Crosswell said, “I feel proud to work for an organisation where the senior leadership is so well represented by women and there is all-round support for women to excel in their roles.”

Dulux celebrates the valuable contributions that women make to the construction industry and renew the commitment to promoting equity and inclusion in its workplace and beyond. Dulux, partners with organizations that share a commitment to diversity and support women in architecture, the trades, and leadership roles. By embracing equity and promoting diversity, a more innovative, creative, and equitable workplace for all can be created.