PUBLISHED MAY 2025
INFINZ collaborates to enrich the finance industry
The Institute of Finance Professionals New Zealand Inc (INFINZ) is an individual member-based organisation for professionals in finance roles and those working in New Zealand’s financial sector ecosystem.
Strategic imperative
Enhancing diversity in financial services is one of INFINZ’s key strategic initiatives. Addressing inequities helps retain the industry’s social licence and is also good business; it helps the industry draw from the widest talent pool and better understand its customers.
However, while at least half of the workers in the financial and professional services sector are female, only 25-40 per cent are typically in the most senior roles. Māori and Pasifika are also under-represented within the industry’s workforce. It is for these reasons that INFINZ is supporting the work of the First Foundation.
Partnering on a model that is proven
“The key to the success of First Foundation’s programme is that it goes beyond facilitating financial scholarships for scholars who are the first in their families to attend university,” explains Jim.
“They offer genuine wraparound support and mentoring. The scholarships also provide paid internships, so rangatahi also receive valuable in-work experience.”
Recently, INFINZ championed the work of the First Foundation to its stakeholders at their sold-out black-tie awards dinner in Auckland. Guests heard from BNZ scholar Kaylah Stirling-Kelly.
Kaylah with Samantha Hayes, MC at the INFINZ Awards event
Inspiring others
Kaylah became the first in her immediate family to attend and graduate from university, earning a Bachelor of Commerce with majors in Accounting and Commercial Law. She became an auditor at KPMG, and is now Assistant Manager there.
Kaylah’s journey from a small town school to a senior level in one of the worlds ‘big four’ firms is nothing short of inspiring.
Independent director and INFINZ distinguished fellow Mary-Jane (MJ) Daly says the First Foundation is a remarkable charity.
“We encourage our sponsorship community to also consider supporting
a First Foundation scholar.”
Mary-Jane (MJ) Daly
Extend the opportunity
Every connection makes a difference. If you’re in a position to help amplify our mission—by opening doors or introducing us to your networks—we’d love to hear from you. Amanda Gilchrist, our Partnerships Manager, can help you explore meaningful ways to be involved.
