Linda Clay: Leading with Purpose in Business and Sport

At Māori Women’s Development Inc. (MWDI), we’re proud to tautoko our Kaiwhakahaere, Linda Clay, as she takes on the world in HYROX on 16 June 2025.

Of Ngāti Pūkeko and Te Whakatōhea descent, Linda leads MWDI with unwavering commitment to advancing the economic wellbeing of wāhine Māori and their whānau. At the heart of Linda’s leadership is the organisational vision to ensure wāhine Māori and their whānau can thrive and contribute equitably to Aotearoa’s cultural, economic, social and political achievements.

Recently, she qualified (in February) to represent Aotearoa on the world stage at the HYROX World Championships in Chicago, USA, alongside her teammate Susan Collins. After taking out first place in their age group at HYROX Aotearoa Pro Doubles, the pair are now set to join more than 2,000 athletes from around the globe.

HYROX—often described as “fitness racing”—is a true test of endurance and resilience. Athletes complete eight rounds of 1km running paired with functional strength workouts, pushing their physical and mental limits. The sport welcomes everyone—from elite competitors to everyday fitness lovers—making it a celebration of effort, growth, and grit.

For Linda, it’s not just about the race—it’s about the bigger picture. “In both business and sport, leadership is about inspiring and guiding others toward a shared goal,” she says. “Sport gives wāhine a platform to grow, test their limits, and develop the same leadership skills that serve us in the home, office, business, and in our communities.”

Whether she’s guiding MWDI with purpose or competing on the international stage, Linda exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, passion, and purpose—always keeping wāhine Māori and their whānau at the forefront.

For more information on Māori Women’s Development Inc visit www.mwdi.co.nz or follow Linda’s Hyrox journey here

Karawhiua!