Braemar Charitable Trust has won the ‘For Purpose’ category at the 2025 Waikato Business Awards in recognition of its strong commitment to improving health outcomes across the Waikato region.
The category, sponsored by Trust Waikato, recognises excellence in not-for-profit organisations that apply commercial strategies to maximise improvements in community wellbeing, reinvesting profit or surplus to achieve its social mission.
The judges noted the Trust’s strong sense of mission, deep compassion, and strategic mindset in enabling real, measurable impact across the Waikato. They also commented on the Trust’s clear governance and leadership, financial sustainability and innovation, all of which have contributed to direct health impacts in the community.
On receiving the award, Trust Manager Paula Baker thanked all those who had contributed to the Trust’s success over the years and what it meant for the future.
“This win is a testament to the amazing specialists, anaesthetists, health providers and community partners who work with us tirelessly to help improve community outcomes.
“The Trust has always been dedicated to enabling access to healthcare for those who need it most and as we’ve grown, we’ve been able to stay connected to our community and understand areas of unmet need and look for innovative ways we can help.”
This includes the Trust’s flagship Community Surgery Programme and working alongside other providers to provide free colonoscopies, children’s specialist dental surgery, general surgery, gynaecology, minor plastics, and children’s ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) surgery, as well as training and upskilling GPs on procedures they can perform in their own practices.
“We are incredibly honoured to receive this award and feel even more inspired to continue to address health access and equity issues across our communities,” says Paula.
Braemar Hospital CEO scoops top prize
Fiona Michel, Braemar Hospital’s CEO, received the prestigious CEO of the Year award in recognition of her exemplary leadership, dedication, and passion for enabling others to shine.
The award, sponsored by the University of Waikato, recognises exceptional leaders (Chief Executives and Managing Directors) whose personal impact on organisational performance and leadership qualities have earned the respect of their peers.
Fiona was unable to accept her award in person due to being overseas but thanked her family and colleagues in a pre-recorded video, recognising the Braemar Hospital team as it gears up to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026.
“I want to particularly acknowledge and thank the wonderful Braemar Hospital team who work so very hard to make each other’s, our specialists and our patients lives better and whose trust, commitment and compassion not only make my job possible, but truly rewarding. Every single person at Braemar is important and they all make me proud to work alongside them every day. Thank you for this recognition.”
Fiona is also a member of the University of Waikato Council, Chair of the Medical Advisory Board of the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine, Chair of the Board of Trustees for Dress for Success Hamilton, a director on the board of New Zealand Medical Indemnity Insurance and Vice President of the New Zealand Private Surgical Hospitals Association.
