Change in Action Week - Wāhine Toa Winner - Shanee Kiriau

Shanee Kiriau is a passionate basketball coach dedicated to empowering girls aged 10-14 through the game she loves. For Shanee, basketball is more than just a sport – it's a powerful tool for creating change. Her mission is to inspire and uplift the next generation of female athletes by fostering confidence, teamwork, and resilience on and off the court.

Recognising the unique influence that female coaches can have, especially during these formative years, Shanee believes that her role goes beyond teaching skills. She’s committed to showing young girls that they, too, can thrive in sports environments, breaking down stereotypes and building self-belief. Shanee understands the importance of representation and how seeing women succeed in coaching roles can inspire her players to envision their own success.

To further this impact, Shanee has created an Instagram page where she shares practical tips, tools, and inspiration with other coaches working with young girls. She hopes to support fellow coaches in creating positive, empowering environments for girls in sport, helping them unlock their full potential both as athletes and individuals.