Champion of disabled is leading the way forward by example

Minnie Baragwanath.

Minnie Baragwanath is chief executive and founder of the Be. Institute, a social enterprise working with the community, businesses and government to change attitudes and improve accessibility for people living with disabilities. Undaunted by a rare eye condition that impaired her own sight, Minnie has played a leading role in effecting social change for disabled New Zealanders over the past 15 years and received a Sir Peter Blake Leadership Award in July for her outstanding contribution to the disabled community.

What was your first job?

I was very entrepreneurial as a child. A friend and I would make things to sell, like stuffed toys and potpourri, and either set up a stall or go door-to-door if sales were slow. But my first real job was at a Palmerston North restaurant. I realised it was going to be tricky being a partially blind waitress - I had to put my finger in the top of the coffee to check how full it was. Not very hygienic!

Tell us about someone who has been a mentor to you?

Lesley Slade, former chief executive of Leadership NZ and co-Director of our Be. Leadership programme, has been an amazing mentor. She has a grasp on the notion of leadership that is rare and precious. My mother is another mentor. Seeing her stand up for what she believes in has been incredibly inspiring.

What is a typical work day like?

There is no such thing as a typical day at work for me. Some days I could be presenting to blind schoolchildren, Rotary or a local chamber of commerce. Other days I am working with the team on new initiatives or working with a corporate organisation to understand the value of accessibility for their customers and staff.

How would your colleagues describe you?

Non-hierarchical, inclusive, creative and values-led, with a love of great shoes!

What was a low moment of your leadership journey?

Wondering during my twenties if I would ever get a job that I loved, where my impaired eyesight would be embraced and I would not feel held back by a disabling workplace and culture. I really had to set up my own workplace to thrive as a visually impaired CEO, stop feeling shame for what I could not do, and instead where I could feel positive about my strengths and help others to do the same.

What has been a professional highlight?

That in just 2 years, Be. Accessible has become known as a social enterprise modelling a different way of being. We're juggling the best of business with social values, working with 25 of the top New Zealand businesses on a journey towards better access, and have a number of the country's biggest organisations wanting to become exemplar access employers. And, perhaps most importantly, people from all walks of life feel encouraged by our positive messages and optimism.

What annoys you?

Close-mindedness, stereotypes ... They're limiting and destructive.

What do you think will be a significant business or societal issue in the next decade?

Disability and an ageing population.

Tell us something about yourself that might surprise people?

I used to be a white-capped, red-lipsticked member of the Wet Hot Beauties - an all female contemporary water ballet troupe!

What is the best part about being a Blake Leader?

Having the opportunity to meet other wonderful leaders and sensing our wee country is overflowing with talented and passionate people. Also realising there is so much more I can do. I feel like I am only still just scraping the surface.