Volunteer Spotlight: Jessie - Finding Your Passion

Story by Janine Duncan

Jessie Manney, Manager of Volunteering Northland, found her true passion and a sense of belonging in the not-for-profit sector through volunteering.

A fully qualified and experienced early childhood educator who also holds a Degree in Applied Management, Jessie emigrated from British Columbia, Canada to Whangarei in 2015.

Her volunteering journey began when she became a mother in Canada, and she continued this path in New Zealand to form new community connections. Becoming involved in various volunteering activities at her daughter's school and helping coordinate a local market allowed her to develop a strong social support network and greater community understanding. Additionally, volunteering in the classroom, serving on the Board of Trustees, and managing her daughter’s sports team was also instrumental in gaining new friendships and a sense of belonging.

Her involvement in hosting Plunket sessions and volunteering at Multicultural Whangarei events opened doors to valuable personal and professional opportunities. These experiences allowed her to enhance her skills, expand her knowledge, and forge meaningful connections within the not-for-profit sector. Ultimately, volunteering proved to be the stepping stone that led Jessie to paid employment, where she found fulfilment and purpose.

Jessie’s enthusiasm for volunteering and desire to give back to the local community that has vastly enriched her life is evident in her roles as a Trustee for Whangarei Rape Crisis, Committee member for WINGS (Women’s International Newcomers Group Social), Grant Writer for Midwestern Rugby and Squash and on the local committee for COGS (Community Organisations Grants Scheme).

When asked about her motivation to continue volunteering; Jessie mentions the diverse range of people she has been fortunate to meet, the profound impact volunteering can have on communities, and the meaningful connections she has made. Through these experiences, she has gained a broader perspective on life, learned valuable lessons, and been inspired by the resilience and determination of others.

To anyone considering volunteering, her advice is to “find something that genuinely interests you and fits into your life. The joy of giving, regardless of the scale, has the power to transform your own life and the lives of others.”