Partnerships in action: ELT meets Auckland’s community stakeholders

Our Executive Leadership Team (ELT) was in Auckland last week as part of a strategic roadshow aimed at deepening engagement with Ethnic Communities, academic institutions, and key sector stakeholders.

From 11 to 14 June, the ELT met with a wide range of community organisations, exploring new collaborations, and reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to partnership, evidence-based and inclusive initiatives.

Our Chief Executive, Mervin Singham, shared his reflections about the roadshow.

“We do this work because we genuinely care about our Ethnic Communities and the many organisations that represent them. Every single group matters, no matter how large or small, and each is deeply valued.”

He emphasised the importance of face-to-face connection and authentic listening. “There is immense value in going out and listening. The relationships we build are the ones we rely on when it truly counts.”

Mervin highlighted the diversity and depth of the engagements. “During this roadshow, we met with a wide spectrum of community organisations, from academia to grassroots, from business to health, and across a variety of ethnic and faith groups, including Asian, Filipino, African, Ismaili, and Shia Muslim communities.

“These engagements gave us a panoramic view of the issues that matter to our communities. They help us connect the dots between what communities are saying and the work we are doing across the system. We don’t want anyone to feel left behind.”

The CE praised the leadership within communities. “It was inspiring to see communities leading their own initiatives and responding to the needs around them. Sometimes, what they need most is for government to step aside so they can do what they do best. Other times, they need our support to scale up and amplify their efforts.

“We witnessed the joy of giving, preparing food for others, supporting those in need, without expecting anything in return. That’s the spirit that fuels strong communities.

“To all those who welcomed us into their spaces: thank you. You reminded us why this work matters. In a turbulent world, you gave us hope,” said Mervin.

The roadshow began with a meaningful discussion at Auckland University of Technology, sponsor of our Ethnic Advantage Conference 2025, where ELT met with Amy Malcolm. The meeting focused on knowledge sharing and the importance of cross-sector collaboration in advancing ethnic community outcomes.

Later, the ELT met with the Philippine Studies Network Aotearoa, represented by Dr Sarah Domingo Lipura, Dr Harold Aquino, Dr Maricar Bautista, and Dr Joeven Castro. Hosted by the Office of the Philippine Honorary Vice Consul, the discussion also included Solicitor and Honorary Vice Consul Oneal Mendoza and Ms. Chequil Agregado.

Together, they explored a potential evidence-based report addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the Filipino community in Aotearoa, which is a timely and important initiative with strong alignment to the Ministry’s Ethnic Evidence and Ethnic Communities Development Fund programmes.

Health, business, and cultural insights

The second day of the roadshow featured a rich tapestry of engagements.

The ELT connected with the Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for New Zealand, represented by Murtaza Ali, followed by a meeting with Grace Ryu, Director of Asian and Ethnic Health Services at the Waitematā Health Board. The team gained valuable insights into the Board’s interpreting services model, a vital part of ensuring accessible and equitable healthcare for ethnic communities in Auckland.

Further engagements included a meeting with Simon Bridges from the Auckland Business Chamber, and a productive conversation with representatives from the University of Auckland Business School, Noah Ghebremichael, Billie Lythberg, Drew Frankli, and Kirsty Williamson, where topics ranged from inclusive innovation to community-based research partnerships.

A highlight of the day was meeting the New Zealand African Community. The ELT extended its warmest congratulations on the successful African Health Expo, held on 15 March 2025. With over 28 health providers, multiple wellbeing organisations, and community participation, the event exemplified the strength of grassroots-led engagement and health advocacy.

Local leadership and industry partnerships

The third day of the roadshow was all about rolling up sleeves and strengthening ties with West Auckland’s community leaders.

Our ELT swapped their business suits for aprons and head nets to join Sunil Kaushal, President of the Waitakere Indian Association, and his team in preparing meals for the community. This weekly initiative, launched after the Auckland floods in 2023, sees volunteers cook and distribute up to 200 meals each Friday to churches and community hubs across the region.

Mr. Kaushal, a long-time partner of the Ministry, reflected on the Association’s 25-year history and its commitment to supporting all communities, not just the Indian diaspora.

The day also included an industry meeting with Tech Mahindra, a sponsor of the upcoming Ethnic Advantage Conference, to discuss digital inclusion and future tech partnerships that empower communities.