Rebecca HassallRebecca has been part of the Women’s Shed Queenstown since the very beginning, helping to grow the idea into a thriving reality. With a BSc (Hons) and a background in operations at a local trade business, she brings a practical, hands-on approach to getting things done. Having founded two small businesses, Rebecca understands what it takes to build something from the ground up. She’s full of ideas and has a knack for turning strategy into action. As co-owner of Queens Workwear - a brand designed to support and celebrate women in trades - Rebecca is passionate about creating spaces where women feel seen, equipped, and empowered. Her local knowledge and strong belief in equality are a perfect fit for the kaupapa of the Shed.
MEET THE TEAM
Meet Alex – Founder & Tutor at The Women’s Shed
Kia ora, I’m Alex - founder of The Women’s Shed and your go-to tutor for all things hands-on.
After years working in building, landscaping, youth work, firefighting, and teaching, I realised that while each of those roles was meaningful in its own way, what I really wanted was to focus on something deeply aligned with my passion: working with women and helping them know their worth. That’s what led me to start The Women’s Shed - a space where women can learn practical skills, grow their confidence, and feel empowered using tools.
I’ve always believed that women are just as capable - if not more so - when it comes to working with their hands. I’m a feminist from way back, and sharing knowledge has always been at the heart of what I do. Whether it’s hammering a nail, operating a drop saw, or building something from scratch, I love helping women realise what they’re capable of.
The Shed isn’t just about building stuff - it’s about building confidence, community, and a sense of pride. If you’ve got the drive and the curiosity, I’ll help you find the skills.
Because every woman deserves to know the satisfaction of making something with her own two hands.
Board of Trustees
Jen GealeJen brings a mix of real-world business smarts and community heart. She was co-founder and CEO of a successful ecommerce business in the mountain bike industry – growing it from a garage project to 8-figure sales and a private equity partnership. She knows firsthand what it’s like to be a woman in a male-dominated industry. Jen holds a Bachelor of Economics and a Master of Development Practice, and has served on boards across Australia and Aotearoa, including Queenstown’s own Happiness House. She now works alongside female founders to help grow confident, capable ecommerce businesses. She is passionate about practical skills, good governance, and helping women back themselves.
David van DamDavid brings more than 35 years’ experience as a company director, including leading the growth of iconic Kiwi beverage brand CH’I from a small local startup into an iternationally successful business. He has served as a trustee across various organisations for over 25 years, and is the current Chair of the Helensville A&P Association, where he is known for his calm leadership, event management skills, and ability to pull off the seemingly impossible - without fuss. He has a long history of volunteering - from firefighting to co-founding Young Vinnies in Auckland with his wife, encouraging youth-led charitable action. David is a natural leader in every setting, with a level head, a smart mind, and a deep commitment to community. He is a top bloke, and the kind of person you want on your team when you’re trying to build something that matters.
Fran Cooke-WillisFran is a chartered structural engineer and director of a local Queenstown engineering firm, with over a decade of experience in the construction industry across Aotearoa and Australia. A lifelong learner, Fran has built a life around curiosity, learning new skills, and backing others to step into their potential. Her background includes time as an outdoor education guide and ski instructor – so she knows first-hand how stepping outside your comfort zone can transform how we learn, grow, and show up in the world. Fran has held leadership roles across engineering and social impact spaces, including work focused on supporting women in STEMM through global programs like Homeward Bound.
Sophie WiltshireSophie works in government and regional economic development, with a background in senior leadership roles across the private sector. She’s passionate about science, technology, and seeing Aotearoa innovation succeed on the world stage. Her son is Ngāti Kuri / Te Rarawa, and her commitment to equitable outcomes for rangatahi and wāhine Māori was the focus of her 2024 Master’s in Technological Futures. Sophie is driven by the kaupapa of community connection and skill-building for wāhine — which is what led her to become a trustee of Women’s Shed Aotearoa. She also co-chairs the St John | Hato Hone | Bream Bay Area Committee and supports local startups through Startup Queenstown Lakes.
The real MVP's of the Women's Shed.. Our Sponsors
Thank you to the companies who we have partnered with. Without your generosity the Women's Shed would not be able to achieve all that we do.
