The New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) is celebrating the incredible diversity of people who make up its
profession as part of today’s World Veterinary Day 2023.
This year’s global theme promotes diversity, equity, and inclusiveness within the international veterinary workforce.
Here in Aotearoa, the NZVA has encouraged veterinarians to share their personal career stories to highlight the many
different people and roles that are represented across the industry. This includes, but is not limited to, veterinarians
from a wide range of countries and cultures, members of the LGBTQI+ community, people living with disabilities and
neurodiversity, those who are at different stages of their career, and vets working both in clinical and non-clinical
roles. Some of their stories are available at https://nzva.org.nz/public/vet-career/wvd2023
NZVA Chief Executive Officer Kevin Bryant says a diverse workforce provides opportunities for professionals to learn
from one another and encourages a safe environment where veterinarians can thrive. "Veterinarians with a range of
different backgrounds and experiences are part of our communities. They are working in clinics across the country - from
tiny rural towns to big central practices - and they are all dedicated to delivering the best care possible for animals
and their owners."
Promoting the diversity in Aotearoa New Zealand’s veterinary profession supports the NZVA’s vision of a vibrant and
diverse industry that is inclusive and collegial.
This World Veterinary Day is even more special for Aotearoa New Zealand, given that 2023 is the NZVA’s 100th
anniversary. Centenary celebrations are taking place throughout the year and will be centred around the NZVA’s annual
conference in June. To read more about the centenary visit https://nzva.org.nz/centenary/