At Foley Douglas, success isn’t just measured by transactions completed or contracts signed. It’s about people, building relationships, and contributing to the growth of our communities.
That’s why several members of our team are stepping beyond their day-to-day roles and into leadership positions within Waikato’s professional networking spaces to help the region’s next generation of business leaders thrive.
Whether it’s through mentoring, networking, or sharing expertise Tyla Robinson. Annabel Jordan, and Isaac Whatnall are proudly flying the flag for young professionals across the regions.
Supporting Waikato’s Young Professionals
Tyla Robinson, Senior Solicitor at Foley Douglas, is known to be both a people person and a problem solver. In her role as a senior solicitor, she helps clients navigate property transactions, commercial contracts, asset protection, people management, business succession, and land development.
Outside of the office, Tyla brings that same commitment to her role as Chairperson of Waikato Young Professionals (WYP)—a networking organisation designed to support professionals in the first seven years of their careers.
As Chairperson, Tyla leads monthly initiatives that connect young professionals with mentors, peers, and business leaders, creating opportunities for growth, learning, and collaboration. These events range from intimate wellness, personal and professional events to larger networking balls – with attendance typically ranging between 40 to 200 young professionals.
Tyla believes WYP addresses the “new-to-industry” growing pains:
“We want to help young people connect and be well-rounded – not just a good professional, but a well-developed person, too.”
Elevating the Profile: Annabel Jordan’s Social Media Leadership
Tyla isn’t the only community-focused team member contributing to WYP. Annabel Jordan, a Foley Douglas solicitor and a graduate of the University of Waikato Te Piringa Faculty of Law, channels her passion for property, asset management, and relationship property into her volunteer role as WYP’s Social Media Manager.
Annabel amplifies the group’s reach by highlighting their diverse events, connecting emerging professionals across sectors, and building WYP’s brand. The organisation and communication skills Annabel is known for in her practice as a solicitor supports her dual role, balancing legal practice with community storytelling.
Sam Douglas, Director at Foley Douglas, says Tyla and Annabel’s leadership roles in WYP reflect the firm’s wider commitment to professional development and community connection.
“Their involvement is something we fully endorse because we know how much Tyla and Annabel have to offer—not just to their clients but to other young professionals starting out in the Waikato,” says Douglas.
Giving Back at Board Level: Isaac Whatnall & NZ Business Connect
Foley Douglas’ community commitment doesn’t stop with WYP. Isaac Whatnall, Senior Associate, recently joined the board of NZ Business Connect, a Waikato-based networking organisation that fosters connection, learning, and purposeful giving. Isaac brings significant legal expertise in property and commercial transactions, known for his perceptive and practical approach. As a mentor within the Foley Douglas team and now a board member of NZ Business Connect, Isaac plays an important role in supporting and guiding the next generation of professionals.
Douglas remarks that Isaac leads from the front when it comes to giving back:
“Isaac is someone who truly embodies the values we hold at Foley Douglas. Whether he’s working with clients or volunteering his time, he approaches everything with care and clarity.”
A Shared Approach to People, Growth and Community
Together, Tyla, Annabel, and Isaac are champions for professional growth across the Waikato – whether through intimate events, strategic outreach, or impactful board-level leadership. Their efforts embody Foley Douglas’ belief that true success goes hand-in-hand with community enrichment.
Want to know more?
Are you a young professional ready to grow your network – or a leader waiting to support the next generation? Check out Waikato Young Professionals and NZ Business Connect. Learn more about this initiative in the inaugural edition of Pulse Magazine.
