Petrina Togi-Sa’ena- What Does Suffrage 125 Mean to You?

November 21st 2018
I am proud that New Zealand is known to be a society that is peaceful, caring, kind, compassionate, friendly and strong. Through social change we can contribute to healing the world. And it is our women, who are leading this change and will positively impact our communities.

What do you do in the Music Industry?

I worked at APRA|AMCOS for 20 years, from 1994 to 2014, as Member Services Manager, which would be my main role within the music industry. The role involved working for the nation's songwriters and composers, administering their rights and royalties; and managing the various services APRA offered. I worked alongside the other industry organisations and was able to establish and maintain long term working relationships across the music industry. I also presented at copyright workshops in Samoa and Rarotonga, to support the development of copyright systems in the Pacific.

I am a Trustee with the Pacific Music Awards Trust and Event Producer for the annual Pacific Music Awards. I have been involved with the awards, since the inaugural event in 2005. I also worked at the NZ Music Commission, from 2000-2002; I was a Trustee of the Crescendo Trust of Aotearoa from 2012-2017, which supports young people through music. In 2013 I co-founded SoulNote Agency, working with artists for recording and live music projects, as well as education workshops and events.

I also book gigs and project manage recording projects for independent local artists.

What does Suffrage 125 mean to you and what advice would you offer other women pursuing their dreams and career goals?

Suffrage 125 marks the 125th anniversary of womens suffrage - which is such an important anniversary for us to remember and honour. To know that New Zealand was the first to confirm women with the right to vote is something we can all be proud of. This anniversary gives us the chance to remember and acknowledge the women who fought for this fundamental right - and the government and others who confirmed it and supported their cause as well. With modern life as it is, it is important to take time to stop and remember our history and how far we have come since this milestone date in history.

What does New Zealand being a world leader in social change mean to you?

For New Zealand to be a world leader, particularly with social change, is something that makes me very proud! It shows the strength in our people, in who we are as a nation and the power of conviction of our government. I am proud that New Zealand is known to be a society that is peaceful, caring, kind, compassionate, friendly and strong. Through social change we can contribute to healing the world. And it is our women, who are leading this change and will positively impact our communities.

 

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