An interview with Rachael Wise, Navigation Financial Partners, on her pro-bono work for Dwell Housing Trust
It isn’t just donations that charities need to keep going, but the professional skills of people in our community that are looking to give back. One such professional is Rachael Wise (Navigation Financial Partners) who has 25 years of banking and finance experience and has lent those skills to Dwell. Since April last year, Rachael has gifted us a few hours per week of her time – completely pro-bono – helping create a more sustainable future for Dwell and those that rely on us.
Why Rachael chose to give back
Rachael has spent decades navigating the intricacies of finance, from industry trends to bank terminology and lending arrangements. She knows how to cut through jargon and ambiguity, ensuring that businesses and individuals get the best financial outcomes. But after years of working with a multitude of different organisations, she wanted to use her expertise for a different kind of impact.
"Wellington is my home and I love this city, so I wanted to give back to Wellington"
Rachael shared that while donations help organisations contribute to the growth of our city, offering expertise can sometimes provide a more meaningful and lasting impact, and that contribution can be just as valuable.
What she gained in return
Providing financial expertise to Dwell wasn’t just about helping others—it became a deeply rewarding experience for Rachael as well. "I feel proud of what we’ve achieved for Dwell” she said. Rachael also supported Mary Potter Hospice with similar financial expertise and through that association was introduced to the Dwell Board. She says, "This work has been a catalyst for me to do more for the community”. Rachael pointed out that as we get older, our idea of success evolves, particularly as you witness others struggles. For her the idea of legacy has become about creating a successful business which has then enabled her to give back to the wider community.
Why pro bono work matters
Rachael points out that financial knowledge is power, and by sharing it with organisations like ours, it helps shift the balance, making financial security more accessible to those who need it most. "When we all succeed, people thrive," Rachael noted. "New Zealand is a small country—we have to help each other or risk falling behind."
Rachael’s story is a reminder that pro bono work isn’t just about charity—it’s an opportunity to use your skills in a meaningful way and create lasting impact for your community. If you're a professional looking for a way to give back, we’d love to hear from you.
For more ways to support Dwell visit www.dwell.org.nz/supportdwell
Thanks to Rachael and Navigation Financial Partners for this incredible gift of expertise.
"What is great about Rachael is not just her fantastic financial expertise and insider knowledge on how lending institutions work, but the alignment of her values with ours. She assisted us with a project that needed purpose-led decision-making, and she has delivered a great result for our organisation. We are so honored to have benefitted from her incredible generosity." Says Dwell CE Liz Lester.