Kathleen Williams

Congratulations to Kathleen Williams, recipient of a grant from the Yvonne A. M. Smith Charitable Trust to support her Master of Public Administration at Columbia University.

Kathleen studied law and commerce at Victoria University of Wellington. This experience helped shape her belief in the importance of education and the role it plays in creating opportunities and improving people’s futures. She is passionate about helping ensure others have access to the same opportunities to learn, grow and succeed.

Now studying at The School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University, she is undertaking a Master of Public Policy, building on her experience working in New Zealand Parliament, at Deloitte and in technology innovation in the United Kingdom. Her work has given her insight into how government decisions affect people’s lives and how rapidly changing technology, particularly artificial intelligence, is reshaping the way we work and learn.

She hopes to return to New Zealand and, in time, stand for Parliament, helping shape policies that improve access to education and skills, support secure employment and ensure New Zealand is well prepared for the changes ahead. Her experience in youth policy development has also strengthened her belief that good ideas need thoughtful planning and strong leadership to make a real difference.

She hopes to bring the experience and perspective she gains overseas back to New Zealand, using them to help shape better policy, expand opportunities for others, and contribute to the country's future.