Written by Gigi Hui (Board member, Asian Family Services).

Joining the Asian Family Services (AFS) board has been an inspirational journey. Established in 1998, AFS is an NGO that has long been a pillar of support for Asian communities across Aotearoa, delivering culturally responsive services, public health education and counselling for those experiencing gambling harm or mental health challenges.

I joined the board with strong alignment to their kaupapa, lived experience connected to the communities AFS serves, and experience in human resources, organisational development and coaching.

I’m grateful for the wisdom my fellow AFS board members offer and the learning that comes from observing how they operate, as well as mentors within my network who have generously shared their governance expertise. I knew I had to be intentional in how I develop my governance knowledge, which is different to management, particularly in an NGO where governance and management can easily become blurred. That’s where ANCAD’s LiiFT Aotearoa came into the picture.

I discovered LiiFT last year and have since attended several of their Governance Matters sessions. Their learning is practical, focused, and grounded in real governance experience, designed to inspire and build the capability of boards. Life is busy, but even when I’m dialling into sessions with a headset on, juggling dinner and bedtime routine with my preschooler, the learning lands, speakers are board members themselves, their advice is clear without all the unnecessary jargon, so information is realistic and immediately applicable.

ANCAD’s LiiFT training has helped strengthen my governance muscle as a board member. I’ve enjoyed the learning they provide and look forward to future sessions to equip me with the knowledge to serve AFS who is doing life changing work in the community.

About AFS

Asian Family Services (AFS) is a non-governmental organisation committed to delivering mental health and gambling harm minimisation services for Asian communities residing in New Zealand since 1998. The team consists of New Zealand-trained Asian clinical practitioners, public health experts, and cultural support workers to provide comprehensive and culturally responsive care throughout the country. The nationally operated Asian Helpline (0800 862342) offers free and confidential support to Asian individuals without visa restrictions, available in eight languages: Mandarin, Cantonese, Hindi, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, and English. https://www.asianfamilyservices.nz/

About Gigi Hui

Gigi Hui is a coach and seasoned HR professional with a background in various industries and businesses like PwC and Delegat (Oyster Bay). She is a current Board Member for Asian Family Services (AFS). Her passion and commitment to developing and empowering others fuels her coaching and consulting business, Creation Hubs, where she works as a certified coach and consultant, helping individuals and those in management and leadership navigate their careers through specialised coaching, management and leadership development.

www.asianfamilyservices.nz