We are seeking Board members who bring strong governance experience, finance and/or fundraising expertise and senior executive experience in the non-profit sector such as CEO, Executive Director or equivalent, with deep understanding of operating in a funding-dependent environment.

Last week, we all marked Waitangi Day in different ways. Interestingly, the Human Rights Commission also released its latest Horizon survey, which tracks people’s awareness, understanding, and attitudes towards Te Tiriti over time.

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our friend, colleague, and Belong Aotearoa Board member, Ron Lal.

Recent tragic events across the motu have shown the growing impacts of climate change. Extreme weather is becoming more frequent and severe, affecting communities in Aotearoa and around the world. These events remind us that caring for the planet and strengthening our preparedness at home go hand in hand, recognising that global forces shape local impacts, and that what we do here also matters globally.

As we enter 2026, an election year in Aotearoa, our CEO, Angela Wilton reflects on the challenges ahead, from global instability affecting our communities abroad to the continued scapegoating of migrants at home. Despite the frustration and division tactics we're seeing, this year offers an opportunity to keep equity, manaakitanga, and Te Tiriti-centred futures front and centre. Plus updates on poll data showing overwhelming support to curb migrant exploitation, events, and essential resources for our communities.

As we reflect on a year marked by grief, political tension, and deepening division, the idea of “strategic amnesia” has become hard to ignore, the convenient forgetting of history, context, and responsibility. This kind of forgetting enables the normalisation of racism and the dismissal of hard truths, even when evidence, such as the UN CERD report, clearly shows our race relations are deteriorating. As we move toward 2026, the question we must ask is not only what our leaders want us to know, but what they hope we will forget.

This season has been filled with opportunities to gather, learn, and intentionally unlearn. From powerful kōrero on imposter syndrome at our Connect & Thrive event to national hui advocating for refugee voice, family reunification, and equitable services, a clear message emerged: meaningful change begins when we challenge bias, centre lived expertise, and listen deeply.

In this issue of our fortnightly sector update, Angela shares how intergenerational connections anchor us, and we farewelled Tsehainesh Hibtit, a Safari whānau member since the beginning, as she joins her daughters in Australia. You'll also find a volunteer treasurer role, interpreter research project, new seasonal work visas, upcoming events including Refugee Alliance Hui, and the latest migration and asylum news.