Time to Refresh Your Board: Why Gen Z Trustees Should be Part of Your Future
A recent study by Ecclesiastical Insurance UK and the Young Trustees Movement has revealed a promising trend: 40% of Gen Zs are open to becoming charity trustees. This presents a golden opportunity for charities to revitalize their boards with fresh perspectives and skills.
Why Diversity Matters
Charities are complex organisations navigating a rapidly changing world. To make informed decisions and effectively serve their communities, boards need a diverse range of perspectives. Gen Z, with their unique experiences, digital savvy, and passion for social impact, can bring a valuable new dimension to charity governance.
Diverse Insights: Different backgrounds and life experiences lead to innovative solutions and better decision-making. They see the challenge from a much wider range of perspectives and are less likely to have collective blind spots.
Digital Proficiency: Gen Z's digital fluency can help charities leverage technology to enhance their operations and outreach.
Future-Focused: A younger generation on the board can help charities anticipate future trends and challenges.
We often think we need the best individuals on our boards; and to a degree that is true. But what we really need is the best blend of experiences and perspective to make insightful decisions.
Overcoming Obstacles
While Gen Zs are enthusiastic about trusteeship, there are some barriers to overcome such as:
Time Constraints: Balancing work, studies, and personal commitments can be challenging.
Fear of Legal Liability: Concerns about potential legal risks can deter young people.
Workload: The responsibilities of a trustee can be demanding.
Don't ask for Experience: If you emphasise specific experiences & skills on your adverts or role descriptions you're unlikely to find Gen Z applying.
To attract and retain Gen Z trustees, charities should:
Offer Flexible Commitments: Consider when and how meetings take place.
Provide Comprehensive Training and Support: Equip new trustees with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Offer them mentoring opportunities, and accredit them for skills they may gain.
Create Supportive Board Cultures: Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued.
Highlight the Benefits: Emphasise the opportunity to learn, network, and make a real difference.
By embracing Gen Z trustees, charities can not only strengthen their governance but also inspire the next generation of social change leaders. Having young trustees should not be a nice to have, it is an essential ingredient for success.
Chris Wade, 5th November 2024