Women Leaders in Law Fellowship for Genevieve Hancock

This Fellowship is supporting Genevieve to reassess the law to ensure it is responsive, robust, and capable of addressing the realities of an evolving digital landscape.

Borrin Foundation Women Leaders in Law Fellowship

Genevieve’s plan

Through the Borrin Foundation Women Leaders in Law Fellowship, Genevieve seeks to inquire whether existing legal frameworks are sufficiently robust and responsive in the face of rapidly evolving technology change. She is particularly interested in how the law can strengthen protections for communities disproportionately affected by online harm. By examining both regulatory gaps and opportunities for innovation, Genevieve aims to contribute to a legal framework that promotes accountability, enhances digital safety, and ensures that all communities in Aotearoa can participate in online spaces.

About Genevieve

Genevieve Hancock is a Pōneke based lawyer with over two decades of experience in technology law and a background in community engagement. She has held senior legal roles in the private sector, including as General Counsel for an international technology company, and as in-house counsel for government, specialising in projects to enhance the digital capability of the public service. In private practice, she advises a wide range of clients on technology related matters including the law relating to online harm.

Genevieve is currently Convenor of the Wellington Women Lawyers’ Association, where she has led submissions on regulatory reform and gender equity. Under her leadership, the Association created an online directory of women lawyers to increase visibility and opportunities for women in the profession. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to equity, innovation, and service to others.

Genevieve combines deep legal experience with first-hand engagement in technology, giving her a grounded perspective on how these tools work in practice. She is particularly interested in the use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and how the law can remain robust and responsive in the face of rapid change.

Grant Amount

$25,000 in 2025-2026

“As technology reshapes the way we live, work, and connect, the law must keep pace. Our legal frameworks should empower all communities to participate safely, fairly, and confidently in the digital world.”

Genevieve Hancock