_{07th August, 2026}

This Award provides opportunities for young professionals at the start of their governance journey to gain governance experience in the not-for-profit sector.

Applications are sought from young professionals who:

• Are motivated to further their commercial experience, gain an insight into good governance practice and learn about the dynamics of sitting on a board or trust
• Are able to demonstrate leadership, diversity of thought, integrity and enterprise in their careers
• Have a range of experience and skills (commercial, community, public service)
• Able to commit the time to prepare for and attend meetings and associated events

Applicants cannot:

• Have held a significant governance role to date. Roles as a school trustee or officer in a local sports, school or community organisation or club are excluded.
• Be a current mentee participating in IoD’s Mentoring for Diversity programme, Tuakana Teina Chair Mentoring programme and/or an appointed Future Director currently observing on a Host Board.

This Award is open to young professionals in the Canterbury, Mid Canterbury, South Canterbury and West Coast regions. You do not need to be an IoD member to apply.
  
What we need from you:
Complete the Canterbury First Steps in Governance Award online application.

Attach the following to your application:

• Your Governance CV
• A written submission addressing each of the following subjects (no more than 500 words per subject):
• Your Career:
• What has been the highlight of your career to date?
• What are your interpersonal strengths in a business environment?
• What are your long term career goals?
• Your interest in governance:
• What motivates you to aspire to become a director?
• What value do you consider you will bring to a board?
• Please outline your personal contribution to your organisation and the community. 
• How do you expect to benefit if you win this Award?

Award Prize:

• A not-for-profit governance internship on the board of Antarctic Heritage Trust, Bone Marrow Cancer Trust or Brackenridge Services Ltd for a minimum of 12 months.
• A financial contribution of $1,200 towards IoD professional development (must be used by December 2027)
• Complimentary membership with the IoD for 12 months
• Complimentary attendance at all local branch functions for 12 months
• Mentoring from an experienced director

  Applications close 5:00pm on Friday 25 September 2026

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