Welcome to the 2025 Business Excellence Award Nominees
Each year, the Marlborough Chamber of Commerce celebrates the people who make a real difference in our business community. Below, you’ll find the Nominees for Mediaworks Business Personality of the Year and MCOC Young Business Person of the Year. These awards shine a light on individuals who bring passion, leadership, and innovation to Marlborough. Take a moment to meet the nominees, and join us in celebrating their achievements.
Mediaworks Business Personality of the Year Nominees
Anna Bensemann
Anna Bensemann, Director and Senior Planner at Baseline Group Marlborough, is a dedicated planner and mentor who has built a thriving business over the past eight years. A local farm girl from Wairau Valley, she actively gives back through community boards, industry leadership, and mentoring young professionals, while leading by example with her positive, can-do attitude and commitment to helping others navigate complex planning challenges.
Brian Dawson
Brian Dawson, of Business Trust Marlborough, is a passionate connector and advocate for the local business community, linking people and opportunities across multiple networks. He was named “Connector of the Year” at the 2024 GEN NZ Awards for his tireless commitment and impact.
Bridget McNamara
Bridget McNamara, co-founder of Ray White Complete Property Management, has built a thriving business while supporting property owners and mentoring others in the Marlborough property and business community. She is also a dedicated theatre contributor, a committee member of Marlborough Repertory Society and an active leader in BNI Blenheim Originals, helping fellow members succeed.
Emma Faith
Emma Faith is a powerhouse hospitality entrepreneur, owning and growing Boss Bagels, Remedy 5032, and Toastie Lords while creating inclusive community hubs and opportunities for her staff. Recognised as Hospitality Industry Leader of the Year 2025, she is known for developing young talent and inspiring her teams to achieve their full potential.
Phil Muir
Phil Muir has built a successful 20-year career with New Zealand Home Loans, expanding his business and team across Marlborough and Nelson. He is also the Chairperson of Awatere ECE Hub Community Trust since 2018, which has fundraised, built and manages a dedicated ECE centre in Seddon, He is the founder of Blenheim Parkrun, supports local property investors, and mentoring local business owners through Business Mentors New Zealand.
Rowan Ingpen
Rowan Ingpen, is a dedicated community leader, volunteer firefighter, and mentor who goes above and beyond to support local residents, businesses, and sports teams. Known for his resilience, generosity, and hands-on approach, he inspires others through his unwavering commitment to family, community, and service.
Tonielle Purdy
Tonielle Purdy, Creative Director of For Good Studio, combines creativity, entrepreneurship, and community impact, building a design business that supports purpose-led projects locally and internationally. She is known for her resilience, integrity, and dedication to lifting others through mentorship, collaborations, and innovative initiatives.
MCOC Young Business Person of the Year Nominees
Alex Roberton
Alex Roberton is co-owner of Marlborough Weekly, the region’s only locally owned media company, and is deeply involved in community, business, and mentoring initiatives. An active sports enthusiast, he also contributes to local boards and events while promoting connections across Marlborough’s business and recreational communities.
Amy Gibbs
Amy Gibbs, founder of WildMark and Cellar Door Manager at Spy Valley Wines, combines innovation and community focus, creating technology that supports conservation and outdoor engagement. She is known for her resilience, creativity, and leadership in uplifting others.
Ashlee Wiblin
Ashlee Wiblin, Owner of The Home Loan Collective, is a dynamic business leader transforming financial advice while empowering her team and clients to achieve financial freedom. Recognised nationally for her results and leadership, she also drives community impact through mentoring, speaking, and charitable initiatives.
Ashleigh Mclean
Ashleigh Mclean is the founder of ONLY SCOOP, a Picton-based hospitality business that combines scratch made ice cream production with mentorship for young locals entering the workforce. Recognised for resilience, community contribution, and leadership, Ashleigh focuses on building people, culture, and meaningful connections in both their business and town, while also opening up the food conversation by championing quality ingredients over quick, convenient alternatives.
Chris Goodyer
Chris Goodyer is the founder of Goodyer Electrical and Goodyer Solar, building a high-quality, award-winning renewable energy business while fostering a strong, supportive team culture. Known for resilience, mentorship, and community contribution, they also give back through youth-focused events, volunteering, and support for local organisations.
Corinna Bogenrieder
Corinna Bogenrieder, founder of CB Solutions, has quickly built a respected bookkeeping business serving clients across New Zealand while providing practical guidance that helps businesses thrive. She is also a leader in the local business community, facilitating networking groups and helping others to grow with confidence and purpose.
David Swanson
David Swanson is the founder of Pure Air Conditioning, building one of Marlborough’s most trusted air conditioning businesses while balancing the care of four young children. Beyond business, he is deeply community-minded, coaching junior sports, supporting local organisations, and actively contributing to business networking initiatives across the region.
Georgina Rondel
Georgina Rondel’s passion for hospitality drives everything she does. Starting her business at 25, she turned a small coffee cart into a thriving venture through creativity, resilience, and sheer determination. Despite council challenges, rising costs, and health setbacks, she has grown her business, upgraded her equipment, and doubled sales.
Khada Douglas
Khada Douglas is a business leader and coach whose passion and expertise transform lives. Through The Game Plan Gym, he mentors coaches, raises industry standards, and creates an inclusive, supportive community. His dedication and impact make him a deserving nominee for Young Business Person of the Year.
Lucas Lima
Lucas Lima, founder of ThinkTomorrow.AI, is helping Marlborough businesses adopt practical, trustworthy AI solutions. In just eight months, he’s built strong client relationships, delivered useful tools, and launched a community-focused pilot, demonstrating integrity, care, and steady leadership, making him a standout nominee for Young Business Person of the Year.
Rosie Jarvis
Rosie Jarvis, director at BDO Marlborough Tasman, is a respected leader recognised for her expertise, professional integrity, and commitment to both her clients and team. Balancing a dynamic career with motherhood, Rosie exemplifies resilience and purpose, qualities that make her a deserving nominee for Young Businessperson of the Year.
Selly Nia
| Selly Nia founder of Ixora Design Studio, has shown creativity, resilience, and impact as a young business owner. From building sustainable businesses like Kerby Music and Ixora to helping clients locally and internationally, she leads with integrity and inspires those around her. Her dedication, courage, and results make her a strong nominee for Young Business Person of the Year. |
Taylor Hamilton
| Taylor Hamilton, co-owner of Toastie Lords, has built the brand from scratch, grown a loyal following, and led sold-out pop-ups. At 26, she inspires her young team, engages the community, and drives the brand’s expansion, making her a standout nominee for Young Business Person of the Year. |
Voting Open Now!
