#241 From Fundraising & Events Exec To Leading A Community Foundation', Alesha Hope CEO of Hawkes Bay Foundation

Welcoming Alesha Hope Chief Executive Officer of the Hawkes Bay Foundation to Purposely. Alesha's career spans corporate finance, fundraising, and philanthropy, all shaped by her early experiences growing up on a family orchard. She has seen firsthand the value of resilience, hard work, and community support—principles that continue to guide her work.

Originally from Hawkes Bay, Alesha saw both the challenges and rewards of the primary sector firsthand. Her parent’s resilience and dedication to providing opportunities for those who worked with him left a lasting impression. These early experiences shaped her desire to build a career that combined professional skills with a sense of purpose.

She first pursued a diploma in Speech and Drama before living in British Columbia and later working in Dublin, Ireland. Her career took a new direction when she moved to Sydney and joined Bank of America Merrill Lynch in corporate access. In this role, she developed the ability to align objectives and create meaningful connections, skills that later became valuable in fundraising.

Seeking greater fulfilment, Alesha transitioned to the Sydney Children's Hospital Foundation, where she gained experience in philanthropy and fundraising. Under the mentorship of Lindsay Rice, she developed a deeper appreciation for the sector and a strong commitment to professional fundraising.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Alesha returned to New Zealand and joined Cranford Hospice in Hawkes Bay. There, she played a key role in a capital campaign to build a new hospice facility, deepening her understanding of philanthropy in her home region.

Now leading the Hawkes Bay Foundation, Alesha is focused on building a sustainable fund to support the community’s diverse needs. The foundation’s mission is to foster healthy, thriving, and resilient communities by inspiring a culture of giving and sharing. She is committed to ensuring the foundation grows and adapts to meet the evolving needs of the region.

Her leadership style is built on collaboration, transparency, and a strong understanding of the local community. She believes that harnessing the generosity and loyalty of the people of Hawkes Bay is key to the foundation’s success. Under her guidance, the foundation aims to build a lasting legacy for future generations.

Outside of work, Alesha enjoys spending time with her family and taking part in the community life of Hawkes Bay.