By Rachel Clarke
I’m feeling reflective as I write this. I’m passionate about Celebrants Aotearoa and feel privileged to have been involved for six years on the National Executive (NE), the last three as president.
It’s been a journey full of learning, growth, creativity, challenges and change. Together with a strong NE we have made a difference! I’ve learnt that change is inevitable and firmly believe we must continue to embrace change to ensure we remain relevant and resilient as a national membership organisation. I’m excited about what comes next with Anna Flanagan at the helm.
When one door closes, another one opens! This is so true. I’ve been asked to stand for the South Wairarapa District Council, and it does feel like a perfect segue to step from a national role into one through which I can support my local community.
The door is now open for you! I invite you to consider putting your hand up – to join your branch committee or contribute your expertise to the work of the National Executive. Give it a go! You can make a difference supporting our Celebrants Aotearoa community! Our trajectory is up - towards a 1000+ strong membership.
As a proud CANZ member you can enjoy a huge range of benefits:
- Some are invisible, like the indemnity insurance we provide that you will likely never use and the advocacy we do, on your behalf in the background.
- Some need to be sought out, like the BDM section of our FAQs that I was reviewing this past week. It’s an absolute goldmine. Take a look here.
- Some are obvious, like our branch networks. However, our branches do need you to turn up, be visible, connect and learn with your peers and develop your own local network of friends and colleagues.
- Some are as obvious as we can make them, communications from our support team, the WRAP, CANZ Chat, blogs, tips on social media. But they are only good if you read them, explore the ideas, put stuff into practice.
I leave Celebrants Aotearoa in good heart, knowing we are a robust and resourceful organisation that serves you (our members) well. I’d like to thank you all for your support over the years and wish you every success with your celebrant practice.
Arohanui, Rachel
