Strengthening systems to support communities: The NZ Ethnic Women’s Trust story
By Eva Chen, ANCAD
NZ Ethnic Women’s Trust was established in 2001. For more than 20 years, the Trust has supported ethnic women and families across Aotearoa New Zealand. It is a well-established organisation with strong community trust and grassroots experience.
The Trust works closely with mums and families, especially migrants and former refugees who are new to New Zealand. It helps them feel connected, confident, and supported as they settle into a new country.
In 2024, the Trust joined the ANCAD Community Accounting Programme. This was not because the Trust was struggling, but because it wanted to strengthen its systems while continuing to grow.
As the Hamilton group expanded over the past two years, the Trust travelled regularly to visit families, support local leaders, and build capability. When the needs in Hamilton increased, representatives also visited the MSD Hamilton office to advocate for the community.
Because the Trust supports migrants and former refugees, the needs can be complex. Strong financial systems, clear reporting, and good governance are important when working with government agencies and funders.
ANCAD’s community accounting support and leadership programmes provided useful capability building in these areas.
ANCAD offered accounting mentors, university students, and practical advice. They helped with understanding financial reporting, governance processes, and accountability systems. This support was ongoing and relationship based.
The Trust was already doing strong community work on its own. ANCAD’s involvement added another layer of support, making the organisation more holistic and sustainable.
Financial management is now clearer, governance conversations are stronger, and the Trust feels more confident advocating for wider community needs.
Looking ahead, NZ Ethnic Women’s Trust will continue supporting families while strengthening its systems, ensuring long-term sustainability for the communities it serves.
