Governance Internship Programme
The Southland Business Chamber is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of business leaders through impactful initiatives like the Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme, a wide range of professional development programmes, and the Southland Leadership Academy.
Recognising the pivotal role governance plays in the leadership journey, we launched the Governance Internship Programme in 2019. This initiative provides Southland Leadership Academy Alumni with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on board experience, fostering the development of governance capabilities, knowledge, and skills.
How the programme works.
We invite Southland organisations to participate in this programme to help cultivate skilled, experienced leaders who are ready to govern and shape our province’s future.
Key Details:
- Eligibility: Open to graduates of the Southland Leadership Academy who are eager to gain governance experience. Ideal candidates need to demonstrate a growth-focus, strong communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with diverse personalities.
- Tenure: Typically a 12 month internship, which may be divided into two six-month terms if multiple applicants are selected.
- Participation: Interns are non-voting board members, fully involved in meetings, networking events, and sub-committee duties, along with other board responsibilities.
- Commitment: Around six hours per month, depending on the organisation and project involvement.
- Agreements: Interns sign a Board Member Agreement and Confidentiality Agreement to formalise their role.
For Interns
- Hands-on exposure to governance at a board level
- Real-world experience in decision-making and strategic leadership
- Networking with experienced business and community leaders.
For Organisations
- Fresh perspectives and innovative insights from emerging leaders
- Contribution to the growth of Southland’s leadership talent.
Get Involved.
If you’re interested in becoming an intern or host an intern on your board, contact Joanne O’Connor to learn more. Together, we can shape the future for Southland governance.

Meet our Interns Interns
Suzii Chen
Badminton Southland
Rachel Lock
Badminton Southland
Louise Evans
Graeme Dingle Foundation Southland
Is this You?
Carla Harper
South Port NZ Ltd
Amie Young
Recycle South
Adam Ronald
Recycle South
Sian Tarrant
Youthline Southland
Breidi McStay
Southland Business Chamber
Samuel Grant
South Port NZ Ltd
Is this You?
Rex Cullen
Southern Group Training Trust
Is this You?
Rex Cullen
Southland Multicultural Trust
Ellice D'Arcy
Badminton Southland
Jaime McNaught
Southland Business Chamber
Intern testimonials, real words real impact
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Empowering through partnership
We extend our sincere thanks to the organisations who have supported Southlanders in their governance journey, and promoted the opportunity for Leadership Academy Alumni to join their board.

































