Jeanie Holland - Why We Give

“It’s been an empowering journey for me.”

Jeanie’s connection to the Waikato Women’s Fund runs deep. She first engaged through the Flourish Ethnic Women’s Leadership Programme, run by one of our recipient organisations. That experience sparked something powerful — a sense of belonging, strength, and belief in her right to be safe, thrive, and flourish in her community.

Later, her workplace — Shama Ethnic Women’s Trust — was also funded by the Fund. Inspired by the kaupapa, Jeanie took it a step further:

“I’ve set up a regular donation to the Fund, and I’m keen to volunteer. I’ve been supported, and now I want to give back.”

She even served briefly on the Fund committee and contributed to plans for updating the website — a reminder that collective giving isn’t just about pūtea. It’s about time, energy, and belief in the power of wāhine to uplift one another.

“What would I say to someone thinking of joining? Be enthusiastic. Take the initiative to join up to the cause this Fund stands for — a Fund by women, for women of the Waikato.”

Ngā mihi nui, Jeanie. Your journey embodies the spirit of this Fund.

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