Irish Celebrations
Jane Quinn
I was deeply honoured to have been named Grand Marshal for the Auckland 2026 St Patrick’s Day Parade.
For over 30 years, I’ve simply said “yes” to some wonderful opportunities in our Irish community.
I’ve had the privilege of serving our Irish community in many roles — from National Coordinator of Friends of Ireland, to President of the Irish Society, committee member of IBNNZ, secretary and committee member of Auckland GAA and founding member of Mná na hÉireann, which celebrates and connects Irish women in NZ.
Each chapter has been driven by a simple belief: that the Irish community in NZ matters, and our Irish heritage is something we nurture and celebrate together.
This recognition feels less like a personal milestone and more like a celebration of a collective effort. I’m grateful to everyone who has worked alongside me — and to those who have trusted me with leadership along the way. I never imagined those years of involvement would lead to this moment
It is a privilege to represent our Irish community in this way, to meet esteemed Minister Noel Grealish and have Ambassador Jane Connolly alongside was truly a wonderful event. I am sincerely appreciative.
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Five years ago, I took a leap and went out on my own. Like many people who step into the unknown, I carried with me a quiet sense of imposter syndrome—a lingering question of whether I was truly “good enough.” Looking back now, I can see that doubt for what it was: not a reflection of my ability, but simply the uncertainty that comes with change. Over the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of working with an incredibly diverse range of clients—from a self-employed hairdresser, to a charity close to my heart, to supporting a lawyer in Auckland’s CBD, whilst also stepping into project management roles. Each experience has reinforced something I didn’t fully appreciate at the beginning: I had far more to offer than I realised. It’s a funny thing—skills built over 30 years don’t always feel extraordinary when you’re living them day to day. It’s only when you stop, reflect, and start writing them down that you truly see the breadth and strength of what you’ve gained. Experience has a way of quietly building expertise, resilience, and adaptability. Recently, I had the honour of organising a lunch in the beautiful Legislative Chambers in Parliament on behalf of the Tara Trust and the Irish Business Network of New Zealand. Bringing together 100 business people to support a meaningful cause was no small feat—but it was a powerful reminder of how far I’ve come. The planning, coordination, and attention to detail required to make the event a success drew on years of experience—skills that, at one time, I may have taken for granted. This time, I recognised them for what they are: valuable, hard-earned, and impactful. Five years on, I no longer question whether I belong in the room. Instead, I focus on the value I bring to it. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: don’t underestimate your own story. Take the time to reflect, to acknowledge your journey, and to recognise your worth. You might just surprise yourself.
In a world buzzing with innovation and opportunity, the dream of owning one’s own business shines bright like a beacon of autonomy and creativity.