After trying to retire three times—yes, three—Margaret Western has finally stepped aside as Manager of the Marlborough Multicultural Centre (MMC). But not too far aside. She’s taken up a new role as Community Development Partner, proving once again that you can take the woman out of MMC… but not for long.

Margaret, a founding member who helped establish MMC in 2007 with support from MSD’s E Tu Whānau, is handing over the Centre Manager seat to Sigrun Steinhagen, a long-time Marlborough local with her own migrant journey.

“As someone who immigrated to New Zealand 35 years ago and moved to four regions, I understand how hard it can be to start over,” says Sigrun. “MMC’s mission to build unity in diversity truly resonates—and we’ve got exciting plans ahead for the community, including new social enterprises that tap into migrant skills and boost our sustainability.”

MMC’s mission is simple but important: to foster social unity and a sense of belonging by collaborating with government and community services to create a safe, inclusive space for people of all cultures. The centre is well-connected to Marlborough’s diverse communities, working alongside over 40 nationalities, with strong partnerships with key agencies, funding organisations, and the local business community.

The newly created Community Development Partner role reflects the Centre’s response to increased demand. Over the past year, MMC has seen more newcomers from across the globe walk through its doors—seeking everything from English language support to employment help, wellbeing programmes, driver’s licence assistance, community connection and a variety of other services that help clients navigate relevant agencies and support a successful settlement pathway.

“There’s still a perception that MMC is only for a few communities,” says Margaret. “But we’re working with over 40 nationalities now, and our services go deep into the heart of Marlborough. You’d be surprised how wide our reach actually is.”

MMC also delivers a wide range of community programmes: from morning teas that build language confidence and friendships, to La Hora del Cuento at the Marlborough District Library, to wellness classes with over 300 enrolments at Marlborough Lines Stadium, and of course, the annual Multicultural Festival that brings thousands to Pollard Park.

“Part of our role is to empower people to live their best lives in their new community,” says Sigrun. “Nyara Nyajena, for instance, immigrated from Zimbabwe 21 years ago, and moved to Blenheim from Auckland in 2023 after her husband took a job in the region. This year she emceed our flagship Marlborough Multicultural Festival and did a brilliant job! Now, Nyara is taking her next big step—standing for Marlborough District Council!”

“It’s a huge leap but after nearly two decades in Aotearoa, it’s time to give back because I want to make sure that every person here knows they belong and their voice matters.” Nyara says. “When we arrived in Blenheim, we barely knew anyone. Then I went to a morning tea put on by MMC and suddenly realised—I wasn’t alone. MMC was the best place any migrant could have.” Since then, she’s become an active member of the community, connecting others to MMC and building new networks.

With a refreshed team and exciting plans for the future, MMC is a welcoming hub for newcomers—and a gentle reminder that sometimes retirement can wait.

For more information contact

Sigrun Steinhagen, Centre Manager, 021910522, manager@mmc.nz

About the Marlborough Multicultural Centre:

Established in 2007 as a consequence of the Ministry of Social Development’s “Settling In Report”, MMC is a not-for-profit organisation based at 12 Henry Street, Blenheim. It supports relocating nationals, former refugees, and migrants through advocacy, education, and community programming. With a mission to foster social unity and belonging, MMC works alongside over 67 ethnic communities to build a more inclusive Marlborough for all.