Annah Stretton is one of New Zealand's most recognised entrepreneurs, fashion designers, and social innovators. Over the past 35 years, she has built a career defined by creativity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to challenging conventional thinking.

After founding the Stretton Clothing Company in Morrinsville in 1991, Annah grew the business into one of New Zealand's most recognisable fashion brands. Today, the company continues to evolve through fashion, accessories, homeware, hospitality, and digital retail, demonstrating the importance of continual reinvention in an ever-changing business landscape.

Alongside her business career, Annah has become a leading voice in social impact through the work of RAW, the organisation she co-founded to support women in prison and those transitioning back into their communities. Her work has helped reshape conversations around rehabilitation, education, and long-term reintegration, while advocating for practical solutions that create lasting social change.

A lifelong learner, Annah returned to university in her late fifties and has since completed three Master's degrees in Social Policy, Photography, and Māori and Indigenous Studies. She is currently continuing postgraduate study in Māori Visual Arts, combining academic research with creative practice and social advocacy.

Her contribution to business and the community has been recognised through numerous honours, including being appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM), receiving the Veuve Clicquot Businesswoman of the Year Award, the EY Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and being named a New Zealander of the Year finalist on multiple occasions.

Annah is also the founder of Sisterhood Social, a platform designed to foster genuine connection between women, and co-hosts the Stretton Unfiltered podcast, where she explores business, leadership, creativity, social issues, and the stories of remarkable New Zealanders.

Known for her willingness to challenge accepted thinking, Annah brings a unique perspective that blends commercial success, creative expression, academic inquiry, and a deep commitment to community. Her experience across fashion, entrepreneurship, the arts, and social enterprise makes her a valued contributor to initiatives that celebrate innovation, excellence, and the power of creativity.