Across South Waikato, volunteer board members and community leaders play a critical role in stewarding local organisations, making strategic decisions, and supporting long‑term wellbeing.
Over the past quarter, SWIFT has continued to invest in governance capability, supporting both current and aspiring board members through a mix of online and in‑person training opportunities.
Chloe Jones participating in the 2023 Mentoring Programme
This has included subsidised places on nationally recognised online governance courses, alongside our first in‑person governance gathering for the year, hosted locally and featuring guest speaker Debbie Gisby, a Director at Graham Brown and Co. Debbie brought a wealth of knowledge and experience from a range of governance roles, and the session created space not only for learning, but for peer connection and shared reflection.
(Left to Right) Community Leaders Jonathan Eaton, Marama Tahapehi, Maria Tarai, Mohan Lal and Debbie Gisby
Learning from what works
This investment builds on the success of earlier governance initiatives in the district – including the South Waikato Governance Mentoring Programme, launched by SWIFT in 2023 in partnership with Community Governance Aotearoa and Mentoring Foundation NZ.
That six‑month programme paired local mentors and mentees, supporting participants to grow their governance confidence, leadership capability, and understanding of board responsibilities. Participants took part in workshops, one‑on‑one mentoring, and group sessions covering topics such as strategic planning, financial oversight, ethical leadership, and effective communication.
Mentors for the 2023 Mentoring programme - (Left) Arama Ngapo and Gray Balwin (Right)
One of the most powerful outcomes of the mentoring programme was the growth in confidence and connection reported by participants. Mentors and mentees alike shared stories of personal development, stronger networks, and a clearer sense of how they could contribute meaningfully to governance roles in their communities.
As SWIFT reflected at the conclusion of the programme, the impact extended beyond skills development. The relationships formed during the journey created a supportive local network that continues to benefit South Waikato, reinforcing the value of investing in people as well as structures.
John Natua and Norm Barker
Building momentum in 2026
It’s been encouraging to see great uptake and positive feedback from recent governance training opportunities, reinforcing that there is both demand and appetite for this kind of kaupapa locally.
By offering governance learning that is accessible, contextual, and grounded in the realities of South Waikato, SWIFT aims to help strengthen the foundations that local organisations rely on , now and into the future.
As the year continues, we’re looking forward to building on this momentum with further opportunities to learn, connect, and grow.
If you’re interested in governance training or attending future gatherings, we’d love to hear from you.
