Judene is a Senior Governance Adviser with the Institute of Directors’ Governance Leadership Centre.
She has run her own consultancy for over 20 years specialising in governance, policy, fundraising and communications working across a wide range of sectors, including housing, health, sport, infrastructure and economic development.
Her governance experience includes being Deputy Mayor of Nelson City Council, director of Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology Ltd, a three-term Tasman District Councillor, a director of Nelson Airport Ltd and a trustee of Network Tasman Trust.
What motivated you to be involved with the Rātā Foundation Board?
As the South Island’s largest philanthropic funder, Rātā Foundation has an immense opportunity and responsibility to improve well-being, address social inequalities and tackle social problems. Philanthropy is a critical element of a democratic society – it supports projects and endeavours that we all benefit from, including lifting up those most in need. Being on the Rātā Board allows me to bring a strategic, long-term focus to supporting our communities while delivering at a grassroots level to a wide range of organisations across arts, housing, sport, health, education, and so much more.
What are you most passionate about supporting in the community?
It’s about the balance of supporting core services and projects that deliver well every day, impacting people’s lives, and looking at new ideas and innovations to address social problems and enhance well-being. I’m passionate about projects and organisations that lift people up and support them and are working towards a more equitable society and a better future for us all, from housing to arts, Māori, Pasifika, the LGBTQIA+ community, ethnic diversity, mental health and climate change.
What is one of Rātā Foundations’ greatest achievements and/or projects to you?
Rātā Foundation has created an investment culture rather than a grant culture – investing in creating a better present and future. All investments have an element of risk, but if we are to tackle today’s problems, we need to be innovative and courageous to support new initiatives.