Local leaders came ready to learn, share, and grow their thinking at our Governance 101 workshop. Tailored to the challenges and opportunities facing boards in rural communities, and facilitated by Dawn Sangster, director of the Maniototo Irrigation Company and Farmlands Co-operative society, the course offered practical tools and insights.
Dawn's interactive approach and real-world examples kept the content relatable and actionable. Participants dug into tricky topics, engaged in meaningful discussions, and left with tools they can use immediately in their roles.
Dawn stressed that governance is not the day-to-day management of an organisation, it is overseeing the long-term direction, effectiveness, and accountability.
This workshop was hosted by Clutha Foundation in partnership with Clutha Development. Thanks to the Inspiring Youth Fund, which supports the professional development of young people, we were able to keep costs low, removing barriers for those eager to upskill.
Holly Roulston, chair of the board of trustees at Heriot School, wasn't sure what to expect when she signed up. "I wanted to make sure I was on the right track with board responsibilities. The workshop has definitely covered all the bases I need to know about. I really valued the Health & Safety section.”
Erin Pendreigh, member of Pcanz Southern Presbytery council, added, “I was originally going to attend a governance course in Dunedin, then I saw this advertised and thought, that’s great; I can do it in Clutha!”
By the end of the day attendees felt inspired and more confident in their governance roles. As Erin summed it up, "Governance is a powerful tool to move people to new places."