Kia Ora, I’m Deon Swiggs
Born with the spirit of the South Island and raised with a view of our ever-changing landscapes, I’ve learned the value of adaptability and resilience early on. From the tranquil life in Nelson to the dynamic experiences at Parihaka, my New Zealand roots run deep and influence everything I do.
My Journey
At 18, I took a leap into the unknown and joined the Royal New Zealand Navy. The discipline and camaraderie I found there have stayed with me through every chapter of my life, from navigating the high seas to steering my own business ventures in the competitive world of real estate.
When the Christchurch earthquakes struck, it was a defining moment for me. I saw it not just as a call to action but as a personal mission. Establishing the Rebuild Christchurch Foundation was my way of giving back, helping our community to stand tall again amidst the rubble and chaos.
Public Service
Christchurch City Council
In 2016, I embarked on a journey of civic duty as the youngest elected member of the Christchurch City Council, representing the heart of our city in Christchurch Central. It was here, in the aftermath of seismic upheaval, that I learned the true essence of leadership. It isn’t about the echo of one’s voice in the council chambers, but the ability to listen—to the whispers of the old, the dreams of the young, and the myriad stories of struggle and triumph that fill our streets.
During my tenure, I sought to be the conduit through which the diverse voices of our community could be channelled into actionable change. I focused on fostering transparency, advocating for sustainable urban development, and supporting initiatives that aimed to enhance our city’s resilience. I worked alongside my fellow councillors, navigating the complexities of governance to rebuild not just infrastructure, but the spirit of our community.
Canterbury Regional Council
My commitment to public service took a new turn in 2022 when I was elected to the Canterbury Regional Council, serving the Christchurch West Ward with renewed vigour. In this role, my focus is on environmental stewardship, championing the sustainable management of our natural resources to ensure they can be enjoyed by generations to come.
Water quality, climate change adaptation, and enhancing public transport are at the forefront of my agenda. I am deeply involved in collaborating with local iwi, leveraging their insight and knowledge to manage our region’s resources with wisdom and respect. It is a privilege to serve in a capacity where I can contribute to the well-being of both the land and its people, promoting policies that reflect our collective aspirations for a greener, more connected Canterbury.
Education: A Lifelong Commitment
Building a Foundation
Education has been the compass that has guided me through uncharted waters, from the disciplined world of ocean navigation to the dynamic arena of business. My academic pursuits began with mastering the art of charting the vast seas and continued with acquiring a solid grounding in sales and marketing. This initial learning laid the foundation for my entrepreneurial ventures, teaching me to navigate market currents and recognise the winds of opportunity.
Broadening Horizons
With a Graduate Diploma in Business Management, I developed a panoramic view of organisational dynamics, which later expanded into innovation and entrepreneurship. My MBA honed my financial acuity, allowing me to strategise with precision and foresight. These qualifications have been instrumental in shaping my approach to leadership, particularly in the complex field of disaster recovery where resilience is paramount.
A Doctorate in Progress
Not one to rest on my laurels, I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business, delving into the nexus between business disaster resilience in our agricultural sector and indigenous knowledge. My research is an exploration of how Māori principles like kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and whanaungatanga (relationship building) can inform and enhance contemporary business practices, especially in the face of calamities.
This journey of higher learning is not just an academic endeavour; it’s a quest to weave the rich tapestry of indigenous wisdom with modern resilience strategies to bolster our agricultural backbone. By doing so, I aim to contribute to a body of knowledge that not only safeguards our primary industries but also nurtures the mauri (life force) of our environment for future prosperity.
In both public service and education, I am driven by a commitment to serve, to grow, and to harness the collective intelligence and spirit of our people for the enduring strength of Aotearoa.
Looking Forward
Today, my focus is on creating sustainable solutions for our communities and empowering the next generation to take the helm. I’m passionate about fostering a future where innovation meets tradition, and where every Kiwi knows their voice matters.
Let’s Connect
If you’re interested in making a difference, or if you believe in the power of community as I do, I’d love to hear from you. Whether it’s over a cuppa or a virtual chat, let’s start a conversation.
Guided by Collective Wisdom
I live by the ethos that our collective strength is far greater than any individual effort. It’s a belief that’s summed up in the whakataukī that guides me:
“Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini.”
My strength is not as an individual, but as a collective.
Thank you for visiting my space. Let’s navigate the future together.