Our Story
Two friends, a shared love for adventure, and a simple idea...
What if we could help more women experience the joy, challenge, and connection that comes with exploring the outdoors?
We realised that many women wanted to step into adventure but felt held back by a lack of skills, knowledge, support, or confidence. So, we created Ladies Who Venture - a community that guides, educates, supports, and inspires women to embrace adventure, challenge themselves, and discover incredible places.
For us, adventure is about more than just the destination. It’s about pushing boundaries, building confidence, and forming connections - with nature, with others, and with ourselves.
Through training programs, group events, and shared experiences, we help women of all ages and abilities take that next step, whether it’s a trail run, an overnight hike, or a new outdoor challenge.
Ladies Who Venture is about saying yes to adventure, together!
A former international hockey player with over 250 games for NZ and a 3x Olympian, Gemma loves inspiring women both on and off the field. As a mother of three young girls, she understands the challenges of balancing family life with personal ambitions and goals.
Gemma holds a degree in Sport and Exercise Science, complemented by a Diploma in Positive Psychology and Wellbeing and loves to empower women through sport and exercise. Her passion for adventure and fun fuels her dynamic and engaging leadership style. Gemma excels in connecting with others, telling compelling stories, and motivating individuals to be the best they can be, and lead happy, healthy and meaningful lives.
A dedicated sports physiotherapist and performance coach, Jess has over a decade of experience working in elite sport. She holds a Master of Health Practice, alongside degrees in Physiotherapy and Physical Education, focusing on Sport and Exercise Science and Exercise Prescription and Management.
Jess has two young children and, following her own postpartum journey, established a special interest in guiding postpartum women through return-to-running programs. Her expertise in planning and navigation, combined with her love for ultra marathons, adventure racing, and trail running, makes her an invaluable coach. Jess’s strengths lie in her ability to educate, guide, and inspire women to push their limits through exercise and outdoor adventures.
