Anne Fitisemanu

CEO, Make a Wish Aotearoa NZ

Anne Fitisemanu is an entrepreneurial Chief Executive and purpose-led leader with a strong track record of driving innovation, inclusion, and sustainable growth. As the former CEO of TupuToa, she transformed a small not-for-profit into a $4 million social enterprise with international reach—powered by strategic partnerships, loyal and high-performing teams, and an unwavering commitment to equity and community. Her work has helped shape a more diverse leadership pipeline in Aotearoa and has had tangible impact across corporate and community sectors.

Now leading Make-A-Wish New Zealand, she brings the same energy and vision to an organisation dedicated to bringing hope, strength and joy to tamariki with critical illnesses. Under her leadership, the foundation is growing its reach and impact, backed by a passionate team committed to the global Make-A-Wish movement and the wellbeing of Kiwi children and their whānau.

A confident and engaging keynote speaker, she regularly shares her insights on leadership, innovation, and diversity at high-profile forums both nationally and internationally. She also serves on several nonprofit boards and was selected for the Institute of Directors’ ‘Mentoring for Diversity’ programme in 2024. Her leadership is grounded in values, driven by people, and focused on creating lasting change.

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