Sharon Lont - Sharon Stark Lont

What is your background?

I grew up in  Gore, Southland. I value the experiences I had growing up in a rural area at a time when life was simpler than it is today. As a child I learnt the importance of caring for our  land and animals and that we are very fortunate in New Zealand to have access to green open spaces. My parents and brother taught me the importance of loyalty, working hard and not taking anything or anyone for granted. I was fortunate enough to attend St Peters College  in Gore where I was given a very good and broad education
by the Rosminians. One teacher in particular, Fr Aidan Cunningham, opened my eyes to a love of reading, history and the wonderful world outside New Zealand. I have much to be grateful for.

What has been your career path?

I attended Otago University and graduated  with a law degree and an Arts degree in Geography. I was admitted to the ( Legal) bar in 1986. I worked at two local law firms before starting my own law firm in 1992 at the age of 28. I have now had my own firm for 27
years.

What drives you?

Overall a sense of fairness and honesty.

I lack pretension and am not driven to climb up the political or career ladder. I recognise that Law is a service industry and treat it as such. I simply want to do a good job for nice people at a fair price. I respect the work  I do for my clients.

I have also travelled extensively and enjoy learning about other places, cultures and different times in history. Having a happy life balance and a broad interest in the world is very important to me.

Do you have some advice for young women launching their careers?

Always live by your own moral code. Guard your independence, never become reliant on another person either financially (have a back up of at least one month's living expenses in credit at the bank and use it only in emergencies) or emotionally, realise you have a lot to learn, be open to others when they offer to teach you, be humble, kind, polite and respectful.

What does International Women's Day mean to you?

I like to think of it in a positive way as a chance to reflect on the ways women can help themselves and each other to live better, happier, and healthier lives.

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