Bay of Plenty’s largest independent chartered accounting practice, Ingham Mora, has community at the heart of their business. Directors, Gracy Qian and Alice Scapens share how they are doing their part to positively impact their community.
Gracy Qian – helping immigrants adjust to life in NZ
Gracy Qian arrived in New Zealand 22 years ago as an international student. Through hard work and dedication, she built a rewarding career, eventually settling here and gaining residency.
Today, she brings her personal journey and professional skills to her directors role at Ingham Mora, where she values supporting clients from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
“I like supporting all my clients, including Kiwis, South Africans, Indians, Malaysians, Japanese, Chinese, Italians, and many more,” Gracy shares.
Her unique perspective as an immigrant herself allows her to deeply understand the challenges her clients face.
“I have been through the same experience, so having that common ground helps me understand how much harder it is for them to establish their business and life in New Zealand.”
One memorable experience for Gracy involves a couple from Hong Kong and Korea who started a small business with a baby.
“It was a joy seeing them grow their business into a franchise and watch their family grow alongside this. Seeing where they started from to where they are now is a true achievement.”
Gracy’s ability to speak her clients’ language and understand their cultural nuances enhances her support.
“Understanding their culture and differences makes it easy for me to provide effective business and accounting advice.
Explaining structure and NZ tax in their language helps them grasp the concepts better. It’s all about building the relationship with clients, giving them my support and earning their trust.”
To other accountants supporting immigrants, Gracy advises, “Stand in your clients’ shoes; it makes them feel more comfortable. Be humble and simplify the jargon.”
Pick something you are passionate about. The reward lies not in monetary gain but in the gratification of seeing your efforts make a meaningful impact.
Alice Scapens – supporting the revitalisation of her city
In the heart of Tauranga, a newly formed organisation, Font Tauranga Public Art Trust, is making waves with its mission to deliver contemporary art to the local community. Aimed at creating iconic landmarks and nourishing the creative spirit, the Trust aspires to inspire a love for the arts in younger generations and infuse the city with vibrancy and personality.
At the helm of financial stewardship for Font Public Art Trust is Ingham Mora director, Alice Scapens. Alice has taken on the role as dedicated treasurer, managing accounts and ensuring the funds align with the Trust’s goals.
Alice’s journey with Font began with a desire and commitment to revitalise downtown Tauranga. Providing her time and expertise through pro bono accounting services, Alice aims to contribute to her hometown’s transformation. “It has lost its vibrancy over the years, and I want to see that come back. It will take a few years, but I want to contribute to the work that is being done to make that happen”, says Alice.
Alice’s values driving this community service are straightforward: helping where one can because it’s the right thing to do. “I’m doing it for the town I live and play in. I’m at a place in life where I can help, and so I should,” she shares.
The first piece of art is yet to be installed, planned for late 2024, and the journey has already been rewarding. Working alongside a passionate team committed to revitalising Tauranga through art has been a memorable experience. Alice mentions, “I’m no artist, but I appreciate it, and the people I get to work with are amazing and talented in that space”. Since Font’s inception in February 2022 it has raised over $300,000, engaged an artist, and made significant strides towards the installation of its first artwork.
For businesses considering community involvement, Alice offers simple advice: “Pick something you are passionate about.” The reward, she affirms, lies not in monetary gain but in the gratification of seeing your efforts make a meaningful impact.
