NZTC attends Aged Care Association Conference 2025

New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC) was proud to be represented at the Aged Care Association (ACA) Conference, held in Christchurch from 29–31 October 2025. Themed Creating Change, the national conference brought together industry leaders, healthcare professionals, educators and change-makers to explore innovation, leadership, and inclusivity in the aged care sector. 

Representing NZTC were Health and Wellbeing (H&W) programme leaders and student support staff, who immersed themselves in three days of keynote presentations, meaningful conversations, and sector-wide networking. 

“The theme Creating Change was more than a slogan — it was a reminder that aged care is not just a sector, but a movement of compassion, dignity, and justice for our elders and those who support them,” said Vaidehi Dave, NZTC Programme Leader – Health and Wellbeing. 

A key takeaway for Vaidehi was the emphasis on whole-person care. 

“Care is not a process — it is a partnership,” she explained. “Healing comes not only from medicine, but from identity and connection.” 

A standout keynote for many was Viv Allanson, CEO of Gener8Care, who inspired delegates to challenge themselves and others to lead with curiosity and courage. 

“Viv is a tireless advocate,” said NZTC lecturer Kath Duncan. “Her call to ‘live, look and learn beyond ourselves’ was particularly powerful.” 

Sessions exploring the role of Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs) highlighted the value they bring to the sector and the cultural and professional challenges they face. 

“It gave me valuable insight into the challenges our own students from diverse backgrounds may also experience in their roles,” said Kath. 

“We often speak about workforce shortages — yet the solution is already here, in our migrant workforce, waiting to be empowered, guided, and included,” added Vaidehi. 

Other inspiring voices included Dr Yemi Penn, whose keynote urged attendees to be “rebelliously curious” and embrace innovation rooted in cultural intelligence and community engagement. 

NZTC’s presence at the expo provided a valuable platform to share the impact of its Health and Wellbeing programs. Student Support Advisor David Buchanan said: 

“It was a valuable opportunity to show how NZTC can contribute to developing staff and uplifting organisations.  

The event concluded with the ACA Excellence in Care Awards, celebrating those making a difference in aged care. 

“I left feeling grounded, motivated, and aligned with a larger purpose — to advocate, educate, and uplift in every role and space I occupy,” reflected Vaidehi. 

NZTC remains committed to supporting the aged care workforce through values-based, culturally responsive education — one step, one student, and one story at a time.