We are proud to announce that the first Global Halal Trade Network Development Expo will be officially opened by Rima Jillian Nakhle, National Party MP for the Takanini electorate in New Zealand’s House of Representatives.

Born in Sydney, Australia, to parents of Lebanese origin, Nakhle holds a law degree from Western Sydney University and is an enrolled barrister and solicitor. She moved to New Zealand in 2012 after marrying Roger Nakhle and was admitted to the New Zealand bar in 2014. Passionate about community development, she served as the executive manager of Te Mahia Community Village—an emergency housing service transformed from her husband’s family-owned camping ground. Once facing skepticism, the village later earned recognition from the Ministry of Social Development as a model community project. Nakhle also established the Te Mahia Community Village Trust, providing sport, education, and social programs for hundreds of residents.