Erena Calder Hawkins

As Sprout’s Programme Engagement Lead, Erena is an ecosystem connector identifying and encouraging target individuals and organisations to participate in relevant Sprout programme offerings. Erena ensures the delivery of value-driven programmes and the best possible experience for innovators, founders, mentors, partners and others who engage in Sprout’s programmes.

Erena has a passion for the agrifood and technology sectors and a curiosity for learning. Prior to working at Sprout, Erena worked for the Pouhere Māori (Maori Strategy) team at Fonterra, where she worked alongside Māori farmers to understand the role of Māturanga Māori in dairy farming. Following her time at Fonterra, Erena’s interest in supporting start-ups led her to programme management with Soda Inc. in Hamilton. At Soda Inc., Erena created and grew a women founder accelerator and pitch competition, Rise Up, and a student immersion programme, STEM Futures Accelerator.

Erena holds a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Biotechnology (UoW) and a Master of Bioscience Enterprise (UoA). Erena enjoys the challenges of working with novel technologies and identifying real-world problems they can solve to make a meaningful impact. Erena has hands-on experience in international startups, with a recent secondment to US-based plant trait startup ZeaKal.