Meet Michelle

We all understand the critical role that civil society plays in the well-being of our world. From ensuring children have enough to eat to advocating for the rights of those who have no voice, non-profit organisations fill the gap between government and business, and keep the needs of the individual at the heart of the mission.

When I started working at Ziyo in 2002 (formerly CMDS who provide financial management for NPOs) I didn’t know anything about non-profit organisations. But I soon realised that I had found my calling. We are called to feed the hungry, heal the sick, and clothe the naked, to build a better world together, but I only have one set of hands. By helping NPOs to be sustainable I can fulfil my calling and can make a greater difference in the lives of more people.

I’ve always known I would own my own business, ever since I was 9 years old playing ‘business business’ with my father’s briefcase and old punch cards. I was able to merge my two passions in 2011 when I started my own business providing a wide range of support to non-profits.

My degree in Information Systems means that I approach a problem with systems thinking – looking for the best solution that is sustainable, efficient and simple. The clear transfer of information along each of the steps, with particular emphasis on the moments of transition, ensures an effective system. Communication is the grease that makes any system or organisation work well. I learnt long ago that I have a knack for communicating and explaining things in a way that people understand, often using impromptu diagrams and, of course, my hands!

I like to think that my superpower is the ability to see the bigger picture, the whole system and its’ component parts, and then create structure and order from the complexity and chaos. This always starts with knowing what the broader strategy and purpose of the organisation is, then building the structure needed to achieve those goals.

I would love to connect with you to chat about your organisation, your strategy and how you are reaching your full potential.