Sport Canterbury is committed to improving the capability of individuals and Boards within the Sport and Recreation sector.

It’s vital to promote collaboration, efficiency, and best practice across the sector to ensure a strong future.

Over the years, we have provided the opportunity for individuals and organisations to improve their capability and we continue to do so.

Over the last year we have developed a governance mentoring programme in partnership with the Mentoring Foundation of New Zealand for Sport and Recreation Board Members in Canterbury.

12 mentors and mentees have signed on to be part of this programme and are from a range of organisations across Waitaha.

Each mentee is paired with an experienced governance mentor, who they meet with one-on-one regularly to receive support, guidance, and development around their own governance capability journey.

Alongside that, two to three collective workshop seminars have been set where all involved with the programme come together around common themes.

“It’s about creating a professional network of practice where they can go to each other for guidance,” says Sport Canterbury General Manager, Participation Pathways, Jason Merrett.

Feedback from the mentees has been positive.

“As the new President of the Canterbury Powerlifting Association, I wanted to ensure I had the skills to manage the association in accordance with good governance principles and provide the association with a clear strategic vision and plan that will last long after I leave.

“I have found the course content excellent, but maybe more importantly, the course has allowed me to work with a wonderful mentor, Maddy Sinclair – who has been an invaluable sounding board.  And lastly, meeting other like-minded leaders from other sporting codes, has given me a sense of community and more confidence in my ability to help my sport in a positive way,” says mentee, Natasha Clarke.

This particular programme finishes in February and another cohort will go through the same process next year.

The other part of this kaupapa which began in July, features a Board Capability Programme for Boards and organisations.

To get this part of the initiative off the ground, we have enlisted the help of Fresh Minds Consultancy to deliver tailored support and development packages for 9 Regional Sport and Recreation Boards/Organisations.

The programme involves bench marking each Boards’ current capability and capacity, identifying areas of development support, and creating a tailored package of support to improve their capability and capacity.

There are also workshops where the group come together to address common themes and have a chance to network.

Follow Sport Canterbury on Facebook - Click here 

Article added: Thursday 17 November 2022