International Volunteer Managers Day Event

Thursday November 5th 2026 11am – 1pm

International Volunteer Managers Day is a chance to celebrate the people who support, lead and champion volunteers every day. This year, we’re turning the focus back to you — the people who spend so much time looking after others.

Join us for a chance to pause, connect with others who understand the joys and challenges of volunteer management, share experiences, enjoy lunch together and take some time to focus on your own wellbeing.

We’re delighted to welcome guest speaker Cynthia Ward, a registered nurse, coach, and mentor with over three decades in health and community services. Cynthia founded True Colours Children’s Health Trust, leading it as CEO and Nurse Specialist for 21 years, and spent 13 years at Hospice Waikato helping establish Rainbow Place. Awarded the Queen’s Service Medal for her services to children and families, she now offers supervision, coaching, and mentoring to help others build resilience in demanding roles.  Cynthia will speak on caring for yourself, building resilience, and not losing yourself in your work — drawing on her own experience of “holding the light” for others while learning to protect her own wellbeing along the way.

Come along, take a breath, and leave feeling supported, connected and re-energised.

Location: Fieldays – Mystery Creek Events Centre

Cost: Free.  (PS: You do not need to be a member of Volunteering Waikato to attend.)