As Susann Wiedlitzka steps down from her role as Aotearoa Vice President of ANZSOC, she reflects on the unique journey of leading through a pandemic, strengthening relationships across the Tasman, and helping build a more connected criminology community in Aotearoa. Her reflections honour collective mahi and look ahead with excitement to the leadership of incoming Aotearoa VP, Dr James Mehigan.
How did it begin?
I joined the ANZSOC Committee of Management as an Aotearoa Representative in 2020, right in the midst of the pandemic. For the next two years, I attended monthly meetings from Germany – often in the middle of the night, probably still in my PJs.
Even as the world slowed to a halt, our learning and exchange within ANZSOC never stopped. Those early days were a unique opportunity for me to connect with criminology colleagues across Aotearoa and Australia during such uncertain times.
What have we achieved together?
I have now served as the Aotearoa VP of ANZSOC for the past four years. This role has been a journey of continuous learning – especially from the lessons of past and present mistakes. The work is far from finished, but it has been deeply rewarding to contribute to ANZSOC’s ongoing transformation.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked alongside a dedicated team of Aotearoa representatives. Together with Tamasailau Suaalii-Sauni, James Mehigan, and Moses Faleolo, we explored ways to strengthen connections and help the Aotearoa side of ANZSOC thrive. Last year, James and the remarkable late Helen Farley brought the ANZSOC conference back to Aotearoa, with generous support from the University of Canterbury.
In June this year, we hosted an ANZSOC Aotearoa Criminology event at the University of Auckland, centred around whakawhanaungatanga. And just a few weeks ago at the 2025 ANZSOC conference, we secured a lunchtime spot on the programme to continue this important mahi. It has truly been a team effort, and I want to thank my fellow Aotearoa reps for doing this mahi together.
Where to next?
The future is ours to shape – together. The next Aotearoa VP, Dr James Mehigan, will carry forward this important mahi and continue leading conversations about the future of criminology in Aotearoa.
Our vision is clear: to host at least one ANZSOC Aotearoa event each year, grounded in connection and collaboration. These gatherings will keep our community vibrant and ensure that our work remains meaningful and responsive.
Exciting times lie ahead, and I look forward to seeing how this shared journey continues to grow.
