IoD and Community Governance NZ launch chair mentoring programme

The Tuakana Teina Chair Mentoring Programme has been launched today as part of a new collaboration between the Institute of Directors (IoD) and Community Governance NZ. 

The programme will see 25 teina (mentees) chairs deepen their leadership in a structured, supportive environment through connection with an experienced tuakana (mentor) chair.

The partnership between the two organisations aligns with the National Action Plan for Community Governance, created in 2020, to support the vision for all community organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand to be well governed. 

The initiative aims to strengthen and support the community governance sector with best practice expertise of the IoD.

IoD chief executive Kirsten Patterson says the networks created by the programme will provide practical and valuable support for new chairs across the sector.

“The IoD has a huge network of experienced chairs who are excited by the opportunity to support and share with the next generation of leaders,” she says.

“Through this partnership with Community Governance NZ, we are in a unique and important position to be able to facilitate these connections, build relationships and provide resources that will be of huge value for the community sector.”

Director of Community Governance NZ Rose Hiha-Agnew agrees, reinforcing the value of meaningful connections to build chair skills and confidence.

“As a new chair in a community organisation, one of the most valuable tools is learning from others who have been there before you,

“The concept of Tuakana Teina also recognises the value of two-way reciprocal learning, meaning both the mentor and mentee benefit from the relationship,” Mrs. Hiha-Agnew says.   

One of the five inaugural chair tuakana (mentors) is Mele Wendt, who is also Chair of the Steering Group which led the development of the National Action Plan.  Ms. Wendt sees the programme as an opportunity to give back to the community sector and share the knowledge and skills that she has benefited from throughout her own governance career.

“In governance, it is so important to have a good network of people around you. Collaboration, reciprocal learning and just sharing stories and experiences can really support a new chair on their journey, particularly in the community sector where time and resources are scarce,” Ms. Wendt says.

Fellow inaugural tuakana (mentor) Alan Isaac agrees it is important for more seasoned chairs to share their experiences, both good and bad, with those new to the role.

“I’ve made mistakes along the way, but like a good coach, it is important to share those mistakes with others so they can learn and avoid the same pitfalls,” he says.

“The chair role is a unique position on a board and there are many nuances, skills and practices that can make the process easier. I have had the support of many mentors over my time in governance and so I am delighted to have this opportunity to pass that on to the next generation of chairs.”

More information about the programme, bios of the inaugural chair mentors and the application process are available on the IoD website.

ENDS

For more information, please contact:

Clare Elcome
Project Communications and Engagement Manager
(021) 0833 3080
clare.elcome@iod.org.nz