If you were in Nelson in the 90s you’ll remember Fifeshire 93.0 FM. At the same time, Sir Wallace Rowling, Digby Lawley and Kevin Ihaia set up the Fifeshire Foundation to assist local families needing support. Shanine Hermsen helps to continue the work today, supporting local people facing hardship and crisis to make longer-term changes in their lives.
My friends would describe me as...
According to my friends ‘The Rookies MTB Girls’, I am a human unicorn! Unique and sparkly, bubbly, fun, positive, adventurous and full of life.
What I love most about living in Nelson is...
Exploring our awesome outdoor backyard with friends, adventures with my son, time with family, enjoying the arts and music scene, the great selection of local cafes and fantastic op shops.
I will never stop talking about…
The importance of Fifeshire Foundation in our community, and the wonderful Fifeshire family. We couldn’t do the work we do without a wide support network; the Fifeshire family extends far and wide. Emma Bennett, our kaiwhakarite/programme coordinator, and I are supported by a strong board and a super team of volunteers as well as generous donors, sponsors, and supporters. It takes a village, so they say, that is very true of our community.
The thing I love most about my work is…
The breadth of people we can help through the work we do. It can be hard to learn about what people are going through, but on the other hand, it is so amazing to be able to support them through a difficult time. And on the flipside is the warmth and generosity of people who donate to us to be able to do this work, it’s just so heart-warming. I love the work we do because it really is about locals looking out for locals.
My biggest challenge is…
The demand and need in our community. I see the need exceeds the amount of support available and it’s a constant balance ensuring there are enough resources and donations.
Something I learnt way later than I should have...
Being is more important than doing.
I’m most looking forward to…
An upcoming event to celebrate 30 years of Fifeshire Foundation. Everyone is welcome to come and join us for the celebration. It is being held 2-5pm, Saturday 22 July at Fairfield House.
The advice I would give to someone who is having a hard time is…
Trust in the outcome, it is hard work but worth getting back on your feet. Remember that people are here to help, there is a strong community here to support you. And that even darkness is needed to allow the stars to shine bright at night.
In the future I see myself…
In an ideal world, my role at Fifeshire Foundation would no longer exist as there would be no demand for our support, but I think it’s more likely the need will continue. I think long term our focus on a ‘hand up’ will continue to be important, as well as ensuring we continue to work closely with local agencies to meet the needs of our community.
