In the realm of New Zealand politics, few figures stand out quite like Kushmiita Parmjeet Kaur Parmar. Born in India in 1970, Parmar has not only been a trailblazer for women of Indian descent but also a role model for aspiring leaders worldwide. From her early career in biochemistry to her remarkable political journey, Parmar has proven time and again that with hard work, determination, and a desire to serve, any obstacle can be overcome.
Early Life and Education of Kushmiita Parmjeet Kaur Parmar
Born into a family where service was a core value, Kushmiita Parmjeet Kaur Parmar was raised in India by a father who served in the Indian Air Force. The values of discipline, responsibility, and dedication were instilled in her from a young age. Parmar’s academic journey began in the field of biochemistry, where she earned a master’s degree in India. In 1995, she relocated to New Zealand to join her husband, Ravinder Parmar, embarking on a new chapter in her life.
Determined to pursue further education, Parmar enrolled at the University of Auckland, where she completed a PhD in neuroscience in 2003. Her groundbreaking doctoral thesis, Neuroserpin regulates neurite outgrowth in AtT-20 and PC12 cell lines, showcased her passion for scientific discovery. Parmar’s scientific background is a testament to her intellectual rigor and problem-solving mindset—skills that would later shape her political career.
From Science to Business: The Early Career of Kushmiita Parmjeet Kaur Parmar
Before stepping into the political arena, built an impressive career. As a scientist, she contributed to innovative research, but her drive to excel did not stop there. In 2007, she and her husband became directors of Kiwi Empire Confectionery Limited, a company that symbolized their entrepreneurial spirit. Parmar also ventured into the media as a current affairs and talkback host on Radio Tarana, using her platform to advocate for her community.
Her work in media opened doors to political engagement. She accompanied New Zealand prime ministers Helen Clark and John Key on their official visits to India as a member of the press, bridging her cultural roots with her adopted home country. Parmar’s unique blend of scientific, entrepreneurial, and media experience set the stage for her future in politics.
The National Party: A Stepping Stone to Parliament
Kushmiita Parmjeet Kaur Parmar’s political journey began with her involvement in New Zealand’s National Party. In 2012, she was appointed to the Film and Video Labelling Body as a community representative, followed by an appointment to the Families Commission board in 2013. Her dedication to public service became evident, and in 2014, Parmar made her first leap into parliamentary politics.
Parmar contested the Mount Roskill electorate in the 2014 general election as a National Party candidate. Although she placed second to Labour’s Phil Goff, her strong performance earned her a place in Parliament as a list MP. In doing so, she became the first Indian woman to be elected to New Zealand’s House of Representatives, a milestone that symbolized her breaking of both cultural and gender barriers.
A Voice for Science and Innovation
As a Member of Parliament, Parmar brought her scientific expertise to the forefront. She championed issues surrounding research, science, and innovation, holding the spokesperson roles in these areas from 2017 to 2020. Parmar was a staunch advocate for providing more secure funding for fire research following significant events like the Port Hills and Nelson fires, and she lobbied for financial stability for Crown Research Institutes.
One of her most significant contributions to Parliament was her Newborn Enrolment with General Practice Bill. Though it was ultimately voted down in its second reading, Parmar’s efforts reflected her commitment to healthcare reform and improving systems for the benefit of New Zealand families. Parmar also worked to support gene-editing technologies, seeing them as a solution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing New Zealand’s agricultural productivity.
ACT New Zealand: A New Chapter in Political Leadership
Despite her achievements, Parmar faced political challenges. After losing her seat in the 2020 general election, she could have easily retreated from public life. However, Kushmiita Parmjeet Kaur Parmar’s resilience and tenacity came to the fore once more. In 2023, she made a bold decision to switch her political allegiance to ACT New Zealand, a party known for its libertarian and free-market principles. Parmar’s candidacy for the Pakuranga electorate in 2023 was a testament to her refusal to give up on her vision for New Zealand’s future.
Parmar’s work as ACT’s education spokesperson has already begun making waves. Her stance against the University of Auckland’s designated safe spaces for Māori and Pasifika students stirred debate about the nature of inclusivity and fairness in New Zealand’s education system. She continues to be a vocal advocate for equity, ensuring that her political principles reflect the values of fairness, opportunity, and meritocracy.
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