Chairperson’s Message
Kia ora koutou,
It’s my honour to have the opportunity to acknowledge the mahi and kaimahi of Visionwest Waka Whakakitenga.
On behalf of the Board, I want to express our deep gratitude to every kaimahi, volunteer, leader, and supporter. Because of your commitment, Visionwest continues to be a place where, as the title of this report so beautifully puts it, ‘hope begins at home’ — not theoretically, but practically. Something made real in the lives of whānau across our communities.
Across each service area, we see this hope take shape in practical and personal ways. It begins when whānau are supported into safe and secure housing, when older people and people with disabilities receive care that enables them to remain independent at home, when food support brings relief around the table, when young people are mentored toward a stronger future, when financial capability grows, and when aroha and care offer connection, dignity, and belonging.
The Board is very aware that this mahi is often complex and demanding. Many of the challenges faced by whānau are not easily resolved, and the social and economic pressures on communities have continued to grow. In that context, the dedication of our kaimahi is not something we take for granted. Your professionalism, perseverance, and genuine aroha for whānau give daily expression to the kaupapa of Visionwest.
As a Board, we provide governance, stewardship, and strategic oversight, but it is the faithful work of people throughout the Trust that brings our mission to life. We give thanks for the strength of the teams who have carried this work, for the leadership that has guided it, and for the partnerships that have enabled Visionwest to keep responding to the needs and hopes of our communities.
“E so’o le fau i le fau”, is a Samoan proverb that describes tying or joining the hibiscus fibres together to make a strong rope. One fibre on its own is not strong, but many fibres tied together create strength. It reminds us that our greatest strength does not come from what we achieve alone, but from the unity, shared purpose, and mutual support that allow hope to take root and grow. As hope is sewn into single interactions, one whānau, one home at a time, we have confidence that this creates strong fibres for a hopeful and thriving community for all.
Ngā mihi,
Lady Maliena Jones,
Board Chair