Earlier this month, Purple Shirt ran a breakfast kōrero on creating exceptional employee experiences, exploring what it really takes to create workplaces where people feel valued, inspired, and supported.
Three extraordinary leaders, Nicola Taylor (Co-Founder at TaxTraders & Taxi), Jodie King (CPO at One NZ), and Jason Gunn (Communications Coach at Easily Said), joined us to share honest, heartfelt reflections on what belonging looks like in action, and how leaders can shape environments where people truly thrive. Our kōrero was equal parts heart, humour, and honesty. It reminded us that belonging runs deeper than fitting in. It’s not about conformity, it’s about connection.
Here are a few of the ideas that stayed with us:
Leadership is the enabler of belonging
Leaders aren’t there to have all the answers. They’re there to create conditions for connection and belonging, to make it easier for people to feel part of something that matters. Nicola captured this beautifully: business can and should be a force for good, making systems more accessible and equitable. The 40 hours people spend at work each week are a privilege, an opportunity to positively shape not only employees’ lives but also the communities they touch.
Being human is our ultimate superpower
Empathy, intuition (or the spidey sense, as Jodie put it), and connection can’t be automated. These human qualities will matter more than ever in the age of AI.
Connection as strategy
One NZ’s transformation isn’t just about a new name or office space. It’s about designing systems, spaces, and ways of working that bring people closer to each other and to Aotearoa. From round tables to shared lunch areas, the small details shape how people connect, collaborate, and belong.
Culture happens in the small moments
The bump-ins in the kitchen, the shared laughs, that’s where belonging grows. Jodie described culture as a mindset of respect, kindness, and inclusion. It’s not built through slogans, but through intentional words and actions.
Live your values
Culture isn’t a slide deck or slogan; it’s lived through everyday actions. Be visible, be consistent, and lead with authenticity.
A huge thank you to Nicola, Jodie, and Jason for your generosity and wisdom, and to everyone who joined us for breakfast.
We left with full hearts, fresh perspectives, and a powerful reminder that when care and intention guide leadership, the impact carries far beyond the workplace.
