A mentoring programme designed to strengthen good governance in the community sector is returning for a fourth year and Upper Clutha organisations are being encouraged to take part.

The six-month programme (designed to develop governance capability, foster connections, and build confidence among non-profit board members) will run from June to December.

Participants are matched with experienced local mentors who bring not-for-profit governance knowledge and an understanding of the region’s unique challenges and opportunities. 

“The Leadership in Governance Mentoring Programme is a proven model delivering real value,” mentor programme coordinator and Huddl programme coordinator Fiona Reeve said.

“Great mentoring can make a huge and ongoing impact, not only for the mentee but also for their organisation and community.”

The programme will be made up of one-on-one mentoring sessions, three cohort networking events, and online check-ins.

“Feedback from past participants has been really positive, with many expressing greater confidence and clarity in their governance roles after completing the programme,” Fiona said.

“It has helped them gain new perspectives and improve governance, and provided pathways to future opportunities in their governance careers.”

In previous years, the programme has had strong involvement from the Upper Clutha through many Wānaka-based mentors and mentees. 

Local mentors have previously come from organisations such as WAI Wānaka, Wānaka Water Project, Business Wānaka Ltd, WHIPIT Ltd, and the Wānaka Chamber of Commerce. 

Mentee organisations have included Cat Rescue Wānaka, Wānaka Search and Rescue, Food for Love Wānaka, WAO, Te Kākano Aotearoa Trust, and Generation Zero, among others.

“Our goal is to help Wānaka organisations become more sustainable and thrive, so they can keep doing great things in the Wānaka community,” Fiona said. “The mentoring programme plays a key role in supporting that vision.”

Registrations are now open for individuals interested in participating as mentees or mentors and anyone interested can find more by emailing [email protected] or at the Huddl website.

PHOTO: Supplied