We spoke to Rupert Ogwuazor, Trustee at CAN. Rupert shares his motivations for becoming a Trustee, the skills and expertise he brings to the role, and the impact his involvement has had on CAN and himself.

• Why did you get involved as a Trustee?

As the leader of the Nigerian Community in Dorset, I understand the role of leadership in charting a course for an organisation. Personally, I got involved as a Trustee because being a person from an ethnically diverse background, I note that there is significant underrepresentation of ethnic minorities in boards across the land. This potentially means that decision-making may be skewed inadvertently in the direction of decision-makers.

• What skills and expertise do you bring to CAN?

I come from the corporate world where professional scepticism and critical/objective thinking are key.  This skill is particularly important in the community and voluntary services sector, which due to its nature of providing support to persons, cannot be devoid of passion and emotions. In my view, only an interplay and balance between the skills noted above can bring about an effective and efficient CVS.

• What differences have been made through your role – both to CAN and to you?

Being a CAN trustee has given me the opportunity to have an overarching and strategic view over an entity, recognising that decisions made at board meetings impact not just individuals but society at large. As a result of my role in CAN, I do my best to champion volunteering within my community and continue to educate others on the benefits of doing so.

Want to learn more about trustees across Dorset? Read our Trustees Report 2024.