Welcoming Josie Pagani, CEO of ChildFund New Zealand to Purposely. Josie joins us to share the organisation's mission to support vulnerable children and families across the Pacific.
As a weekly contributor to The Huddle, a New Zealand radio programme discussing local and global politics, Josie is no stranger to the mic.
Josie, a New Zealander, who spent her childhood in the UK, growing up in a working-class village in the Cotswolds, South West England. She speaks fondly of her upbringing and how it helped shape her outlook and political views.
Josie was appointed CEO of ChildFund New Zealand in 2023. Her diverse career background makes her ideal for the role. She has experience in film production, politics as a press secretary, trade and foreign affairs, and consultancy work for influential global agencies focused on social and structural change.
ChildFund operates in some of the world's most vulnerable communities, where conflict, political instability, violence, and climate change impact daily life. Its history dates to 1938, initially known as China’s Children Fund, then as Christian Children’s Fund, and now as ChildFund International. The organisation started in New Zealand in 1990, with an office in Auckland.
ChildFund believes in a holistic approach to help children thrive, aiming to build meaningful relationships in communities and collaborate with local organisations. Their goal is for each community to achieve self-reliance, where local organisations and families can continue their journey independently. They focus on meeting the basic needs of children and youth: education, health, secure livelihoods, and safe homes.
ChildFund has raised millions to support its mission both locally and globally. Initially, child sponsorship was a key fundraising method. Josie explains the shift away from that model:
"The child sponsorship model has been very successful because it creates a direct connection for donors. However, it can create unintended consequences, such as inequality within families or communities. We now focus on community needs, allowing donors to fund specific projects like building learning centers, buying desks, or providing nutrition products."
Josie also highlights a change in how ChildFund NZ and other local aid charities respond to disasters. Previously, individual charities ran separate fundraising campaigns. Now, they coordinate through the Emergency Alliance.
"In a humanitarian crisis, the Emergency Alliance sends out a unified appeal. Donors can be assured that their contributions go to organizations with local teams on the ground, ensuring effective and direct support."
Through these innovative approaches and collaborative efforts, ChildFund New Zealand continues to make a significant impact on the lives of children and families in need.
Thank you for joining us on Purposely Podcast. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and insights from leaders making a difference around the world.
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