Who's Going to be Speaking
We are proud of the excellence of the diverse and interesting guest speakers who address our monthly meetings. Not only do they provide opportunity for learning and discussion on a wide range of topics, but they keep us up to date with what is happening in our ever-changing city and world.
Here are details of our speakers for the next couple of months in 2024:
MAY 2024
Monday, May 13th
Stephen Pennruscoe
on
"Changes at the Museum - Past, Present and Future"
Stephen Pennruscoe is the Head of Public Engagement at Canterbury Museum. He is responsible for the Museum's communication, marketing, short-term and long-term exhibitions, education, visitor services and development activities. Stephen started his career in museums in 1996 as part of the team that set up Te Papa Tongarewa - the Museum of New Zealand. He has worked for several New Zealand Museums, including Canterbury Museum (2006-2013) and overseas for the British Museum in London. He also has spent four years in Libraries, where he was the Director of Hamilton City Libraries. He re-joined the Canterbury Museum team in 2022.
Stephen prides himself as a leader and mentor, promoting focused customer experiences and best practices. He is driven by a desire to achieve the best for the Museum and our visitors.
JUNE 2024
Monday, June 10th
Ben Mills
on
"Long Story Short: Tales of Trans Aotearoa"
Ben is a queer Pakeha trans man with a long background in high school art teaching and advocacy for Rainbow rangatahi. He is originally from Tokoroa and has recently been living in Mapua before the move to Otautahi. Ben is passionate about inclusion and the richness that diversity brings. He loves riding and caring for his whanau of three bicycles, all things outdoors and immersing himself in anything art related. He reckons a good oat flat white and a bike ride fixes most problems.