The Seedling: Defining Your Intention

What this means

Like a seed planted with care, impact begins with a clear intention. This isn’t just a mission statement—it’s the living kaupapa that guides your work. A clear purpose keeps your mahi grounded in values, shaped by community priorities, and focused on what matters most.

Why it matters

• A well-defined purpose gives direction and clarity for your team
• It helps others understand your kaupapa and join your journey
• It sets the foundation for measuring success in a way that reflects what really matters

Key questions to reflect on

These prompts help you clarify your intention with honesty and care:

• What problem are we responding to?
• What change do we want to create?
• Who is this change for—and with?
• What values and principles guide our mahi?
• How will we know we’ve stayed true to our purpose?
• Who else shares this kaupapa?

As you define your intention, ask: Who else is working towards this vision in our rohe or sector? Could our intention align with or strengthen others’ mahi? Shared purpose grows stronger when it’s cultivated together.

Practical tips

• Use everyday language—not just funder or policy terms
• Co-create your intention with your community, staff, and partners
• Let intent evolve over time, but stay grounded in your values

Resources

A one-page tool to help you shape a strong, values-based intent statement.

Check out the Toolshed for more practical tools

Links to examples

Here is an example from Aotearoa of a group who have clearly defined their intention.

🔗 Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu

Check out Community Connections videos explaining how Mana Waiora uses Te Ao Māori values (Ngā mātāpuna) that underpins their work, toward their vision 🔗 Mana Waiora – Community Connections

Defining your intention nurtures the roots of meaningful change.