In the Taranaki region, younger people are noticeably underrepresented on governance boards, with not-for-profit leadership often dominated by an aging population. For one young woman in her late 20s, this reality was clear — and frustrating. Despite having the skills and motivation, she wasn’t sure how to get started.
That changed when she discovered The Wheelhouse.
After returning to Taranaki with her young family, she found herself disconnected from local networks and unsure how to gain governance experience. With limited opportunities in her workplace and few pathways into community leadership, her professional growth felt stalled.
“I have the skills but not sure how/where to start.”
An internal email at work promoting The Wheelhouse’s ‘Get on Board’ programme caught her attention, and she signed up. What followed was a turning point in both her personal and professional journey. Through board training, mentoring, and one-on-one support, she began building her confidence and discovering a clear sense of direction.
The ‘Get on Board’ programme offered workshops on governance, finance, and planning, along with practical support for navigating board documentation and processes. She was matched to a board within her own sector, creating a meaningful crossover between her professional skills and community service.
At the same time, she joined The Wheelhouse’s mentoring programme, where regular coffee catchups offered space for reflection and growth.
“My mentor listened, reassured, and helped me come to my own realisations.”
The changes she experienced were gradual but significant. She became a permanent board member after six months and was recently invited to work alongside the national body. — a huge personal milestone.
“I now have confidence in my own voice, values, and future decisions.”
She credits the mentoring and governance experiences with shifting her view of leadership and strengthening her connection to the community. Importantly, her workplace has also felt the impact.
“My workplace now have a happier employee, with a broader set of experiences and networksThey’re benefiting from this reach and I’m now able to support other groups with this experience.”
Her own personal growth has created a ripple effect. She’s now more settled, with a clearer sense of direction and purpose, and her increased confidence has allowed her to say yes to other opportunities. .
“I wouldn’t be where I am right now if I didn’t have this opportunity.”
Twelve months ago, she was questioning her career and next steps. Today, she is contributing at both local and national levels, supporting others, and embracing leadership from where she stands.
“My understanding of leadership has changed. You can lead from anywhere, at any point in life, and it starts with self.”
The Wheelhouse has not only helped her discover her potential — it’s helped her act on it. In a region where retaining and developing young talent is a challenge, her story is a powerful example of what’s possible when the right support is available.