Supporting Women in the Internet Industry Overview
The IAASysters program started in 2021. After years of seeing consistently low participation rates of women in our industry we wanted to do something concrete about it!
IAASysters NZ will take place again in 2026 – Location to be confirmed!
Following the success of our 2025 Workshop and with the proud support of NZNOG, we’re excited to announce we’re hosting another IAASysters Workshop in New Zealand in 2026. Inspired by the international systers.org and systers@ietf initiatives, the IAASysters program was created to encourage and support ALL women and gender diverse people working in the internet industry.
We achieve this by offering ten sponsored attendees the opportunity to participate in the IAASysters Workshop – a one-day workshop that provides expert career advice and helps build important soft skills that support career advancement. Systers then attend the NZNOG technical conference where they will receive in-depth training and networking opportunities.
Organisations interested in sponsoring IAASysters NZ can a find out more below.
Applications for the 2026 program are now open with more details coming soon!

Applications for the 2026 program are now open.
- IAASysters NZ Workshop –TBC
- NZNOG Conference – TBC
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be employed or working towards a career in the internet industry*
- Have a passion for the internet and the internet industry
- Reside within New Zealand
As part of the application process, we require an overview of your current role and a summary of your career aspirations and/or relevant training. Applications must include a statement of endorsement from either a direct supervisor or mentor; in the case of nominations, the nominator’s endorsement statement will be accepted.
Applications demonstrating the most potential for personal growth and passion for the internet are rated highest.
Whether you are an aspiring student, intern, re-entering the workforce after a break or have been in your role for some time, it’s your passion for the internet and the internet industry that really counts.
*Applications are open to women working in ALL types of job roles within the internet industry (network operations, engineering, IT, marketing, regulation, customer support or those studying towards a relevant degree or diploma).
If your organisation would also like to make a difference for women in the internet industry, we have sponsorship opportunities available. All the information you need to know is in the prospectus, or alternatively, you can contact us directly to discuss these options at events@internet.asn.au.
If you are ready to sponsor, please complete our Intent to Sponsor form
The IAASysters Workshop includes sessions designed to help attendees plan their future careers and develop critical soft skills that will help them achieve their goals.
2026 Program details coming soon!
Successful sponsored New Zealand attendees will receive:
- Ticket to attend the IAASysters NZ Workshop
- Ticket to attend the NZNOG technical conference
- Economy airfares and accommodation (if required)
Below is the Workshop timetable from last year’s workshop, as a guide:
Industry Event
Attendance at a technical conference, like NZNOG, is a vital part of this program as it enables women to network with prominent industry figures and develop technical knowledge and expertise.