New Chair for Generate Network

The New Zealand-based Generate Network - which aims to provide a collective voice for young professionals in environmental management, recreation and sport, supporting development opportunities for those working in the sector - has named Hannah Chapman-Carr as its new Chair.

The appointment follows inaugural Chair Jenn Benden stepping aside to enable the next generation of recreation leaders to come forward and a subsequent internal process of appointing from within Generate’s Steering Group.

Commenting on her accession, Chapman-Carr, a Parks, Sport and Recreation Graduate at Auckland Council, stated “I have a particular interest in park sustainability and their role in highly urbanised areas. This year I have been involved in the organisation of the Annual Generate conference held in Hamilton and the Auckland Generate breakfast.

"As a young professional, beginning my career I have realised the importance of the Generate Network and the great opportunities it can offer."

"I am very excited and enthusiastic to be taking over as Chair. Jenn has done an amazing job over the last four years. They are big shoes fill ... I have much to learn from her."

Looking back on her role, Benden (the former Jenn Halliday), who will remain on the Steering Group as a member and mentor to the next Chair, stated “I have been exceedingly amazed at the things we have achieved as a group over the past four years.

“We launched our website, opened in Australia, created sponsorships for students and YPs, began generating revenue, we supported members to achieve ARPro and go on to be recreation superstars… to name a few.

“I am proud to see the advancements we have made as a voluntary organisation - and I have full confidence Hannah will continue to run the organisation from strength to strength."