Trustees Week 2024: Meet Mildred Zimunya, a Corra Trustee since 2020

It’s Trustees Week 2024, when the voluntary and community sectors in the UK come together to celebrate the achievements of nearly one million trustees. Mildred Zimunya has been a Corra trustee since June 2020, providing valuable oversight for our ten-year strategy. Here’s Mildred: 

My name is Mildred Zimunya, I’m a trustee at Corra Foundation, and let me start with a fun fact: I’m a total self-help book enthusiast. Right now, I’m enjoying How to Talk to Anyone by Leil Lowndes, which has helped me with great communication tips both in the board room and socially. Also, I never say no to a comforting plate of my traditional “Sadza neNyama nemaVeggie.” There! Given you something to research (tip it’s a Zimbabwean soul food favourite).

What’s It Like Being a Trustee at Corra Foundation?

Being a trustee at Corra is a wonderful blend of meaningful work and a balanced time commitment. With just four main board meetings a year and a handful of committee meetings, it’s not overwhelming. Plus, there are optional invites to community events if time permits, making it flexible. It’s rewarding to know that our discussions, from financial oversight in the Audit Committee to anti-racism work through the Anti-Racism Working Group, genuinely help make a difference across Scotland.

Yes, there’s a steep learning curve sometimes, but the supportive team and the shared passion for Corra’s mission make it a truly enjoyable experience. The best part? It always feels worthwhile.

Is being a Corra trustee what you expected it to be?

Honestly, not quite! I knew it’d be rewarding, but didn’t expect the personal growth. It’s like a crash course in leadership in the funding space, sprinkled with moments of reflection and insight. And with only a few meetings a year, I’m able to dive deep into our mission without feeling overwhelmed. 

What does the year ahead have in store for Corra?

Looking forward, Corra’s focus is clear: Deepening community relationships, growing our anti-racism work, putting co-design at the centre of our grants and ensuring we’re accountable in everything we do. We recognise there are tough times ahead for many of our communities, as a Corra trustee I must play my part to ensure Corra gets it right to ease these challenges.

What part of Corra’s work or approach are you most proud of? 

It has to be our commitment to listening and challenging inequality. Corra doesn’t just talk the talk; we make sure to engage deeply with communities and let them guide our approach. I’m excited at the potential positive impact of Corra’s Henry Duncan Grants for women-led organisations, and it’s focus on Women Led Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic organisations over the coming years. Women are vital change agents and I am proud we have listened and have acted by delivering this fund.

What do we need to get better at?

We’re making progress, but there’s always room to grow. Our anti-racism efforts are ongoing, and we’re committed to making sure this work isn’t just a slogan but part of our DNA. We also want to make our funding more accessible and less intimidating for grassroots organisations. Improvement is a journey, and being part of Corra means we’re always asking ourselves how we can do better.

Closing Thoughts

Being a trustee at Corra Foundation is a balanced, enriching experience. The commitment is manageable, yet the impact feels significant. I’m grateful for the chance to be part of an organisation that genuinely listens and strives for equity.

I love the Scottish Outdoors, I share a picture of me enjoying the beach somewhere in the East coast.