Rod Milner, a trailblazer in the mobility solutions sector, boasts a 62-year illustrious career in New Zealand’s automotive industry. Commencing his journey in 1963 in a rural dealership, Rod’s career took him from Sales Controller at British Leyland to Product Manager for Land Rover at NZ Motor Corporation to Marketing Manager and then General Manager at Subaru New Zealand. In 1982, he established Rod Milner Motors, which after successful franchises with several brands, began focusing on vehicle importation. His visionary leadership led to the foundation of the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA), giving voice to hundreds of dealers and influencing the sector for over 37 years.

The turning point in Rod’s career came when he identified the lack of suitable vehicles for transporting his late wife, who was wheelchair-bound. This inspired him to pivot his company’s focus towards mobility vehicles and accessible transport solutions. Today, Milner Mobility stands as New Zealand’s leading provider of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and adaptive transport solutions, sourcing equipment globally and continuing to innovate under Rod’s strategic guidance and his son, Darren Milner’s, operational leadership.

Jeet Suchdev is a tireless advocate for unity, compassion, and cultural inclusion in Aotearoa New Zealand. As Chairman of Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust, he has transformed the organisation from a small cultural group into one of New Zealand’s leading providers of migrant settlement support, senior wellbeing programmes, and youth engagement initiatives. A strong champion for seniors, Jeet has worked extensively on cases of elder abuse, ensuring vulnerable older people receive protection, dignity, and ongoing support.

He actively assists seniors in securing safe accommodation and essential services. Jeet also works closely with Auckland Council’s Age-friendly team, advocating for improved wellbeing, accessible facilities, health services, housing, and transport for seniors across the region. With vision and collaboration at the heart of his leadership, Jeet helped establish New Zealand’s first culturally appropriate care home in partnership with BUPA NZ at David Lange Care Home – a milestone in senior care for ethnic communities. His leadership during times of crisis, including the COVID-19 pandemic, ensured that vulnerable families received food, care, and connection when they needed it most. In his seventies, Jeet remains as active as ever, mentoring youth leaders, advising government on ethnic affairs, and coordinating essential community services. His enduring commitment to service, empathy, and inclusion continues to inspire.