Boost for Good Shepherd
The Women in Finance charity lunch run by the Financial Services Federation (FSF) has raised $26,825 for Good Shepherd NZ.
The money will support work with women, girls and families experiencing harm and financial hardship. The previous annual event raised $18,000.
Now in its 10th year, the Women in Finance event has grown from a networking lunch of 20 senior females into a sell-out gathering of more than 200 professionals from the financial services sector.
Lyn McMorran, the FSF’s executive director, says the event reflects the growth of women in the industry and the federation’s long-standing commitment to financial wellbeing.
“What began as a simple idea – creating a space for senior women to connect during business hours – has evolved into one of the most anticipated events on our calendar,” she says.
“Good Shepherd’s mission, and the vital work it does addressing economic harm and financial hardship, is a natural fit for our sector. Many of the women they support have experienced situations that directly impact their financial wellbeing.
“Our members are proud to contribute in a meaningful way to an organisation doing so much good for women and families across Aotearoa.”
This year’s event, held in Auckland on February 26, featured a panel discussion with Samantha Barrass, chief executive of the Financial Markets Authority, and Janine Grainger, founder of Easy Crypto. It was hosted by Petra Bagust, television presenter, radio host and podcaster.
They were joined by Sister Teresa and Sister Mary, now both in their 80s, who joined Good Shepherd 60 years ago.
The event was made possible thanks to support from platinum sponsor Equifax, along with gold sponsors Alfa Financial Solutions, DebtManagers, Finzsoft and Nissan. Federation members and businesses donated more than $10,000 of auction prizes, helping lift the total raised.
Good Shepherd NZ’s chief executive, Tania Pouwhare, says the financial services community’s generosity will make a tangible difference.
“Women’s financial wellbeing is at the core of our work,” she adds. “Too many families in New Zealand are doing it tough. They don’t have enough money for the basics, have no savings to fall back on and are burdened by debt that is unmanageable or unjust. That harms people and limits their ability to live full lives.
“Support like this allows us to provide practical assistance that strengthens financial security, stops economic harm and enables women to be physically safe. There’s never enough to meet the need, but we will make the best use of what has been raised.”
Funds raised from this event will go towards ensuring women can be safe, well and connected.
The FSF has strengthened its relationship with Good Shepherd by developing its economic harm code of practice.
The code recognises people experiencing economic abuse may not be aware of debts incurred in their name. It outlines member responsibilities to prevent and reduce economic harm, while helping keep customers and staff safe.
