Ellie Stone, the driving force behind MCNZ Group, is not only a visionary entrepreneur but also an incredibly inspiring figure. She is a woman on a mission to reshape lives and communities in New Zealand through her unwavering compassion, determination, and innovative employment solutions.
Twenty-seven years ago, Ellie arrived in New Zealand from Iran in search of a new beginning. Having trained as a biologist, she later pursued studies in HR, gaining a master’s degree in HR from AUT from where she is now also keen to do a PhD about the negative impacts social media can have when searching for work. Despite her academic achievements, Ellie found herself disheartened by roles where profit overshadowed ethics.
This realisation ignited a fervent desire within her to be a force for positive change. Recognising that relying on others wasn’t enough, Ellie took matters into her own hands by founding MCNZ Group to provide employment opportunities for overlooked individuals. Her vision for the company transcends mere profit; it’s about challenging societal norms and building bridges for those seeking a second chance. Despite founding the company in 2021, it wasn’t until September last year that Ellie made the pivotal decision to leave her current job and fully dedicate herself to the business.
“I’m in my 50s but I feel reborn,” says Ellie. “I’ve finally found the courage to believe in myself and pursue my passion. It’s akin to standing on the edge of a cliff, arms outstretched, breathing in the fresh air of newfound freedom. The prospect of enriching the lives of people who need help is what propels me forward.”
Ellie is deeply committed to supporting New Zealanders in need: “I have lived here half my life and this is where I will die,” she asserts. “My kids are growing up here, so I want to support our own people.” With this in mind, MCNZ Group acts as a lifeline for those facing various challenges like former prisoners, recovering addicts and refugees. “These individuals have never had appropriate role models or the ability to escape the life that they were born into,” says Ellie. “I’m here to help them believe in themselves so that they can shape their own identity at long last.”
Ellie tirelessly recruits, trains, and places individuals in suitable roles in construction or skilled labour spanning roofing, tiling, painting, construction cleaning, traffic control and beyond. “At MCNZ Group, we’re rewriting the rules by offering a second chance,” Ellie explains passionately. “I believe everyone deserves a chance to rebuild their lives and contribute to society.
“A fair and just society is not one that continues to punish a person indefinitely, either intentionally through its actions or inadvertently through its biased opinions. Instead of looking down on these individuals, as a society, we should strive to understand the numerous challenges they confront.”
To change just one life for the better is an amazing achievement, but my ultimate goal is to change the lives of many.
Success stories already emerging from MCNZ Group are a testament to Ellie’s vision and unwavering commitment. Beyond employment, MCNZ Group also nurtures newfound skills, confidence and personal development, empowering individuals to become invaluable assets in their workplaces.
“The barriers our people face are often complex and unrecognised,” Ellie explains. “Sometimes it’s something small, like not having enough credit on their phone to check a bus timetable or use maps to find a job site. Recently, we assisted a deportee facing court charges for past transgressions. With no money, housing, or job, he had no clear means to demonstrate his contribution to society and was at risk of jail. We advocated for him in court, provided employment, and partnered with others to secure accommodation for him and his pregnant girlfriend. Just last week, he was promoted and is now able to support his growing family. Such moments fill me with pride for what we do and the impact we can make.”
Ellie’s ambitions for MCNZ Group are expansive. She envisions spearheading initiatives in social housing, aiding individuals with low credit ratings to secure their first home. To achieve this, she intends to collaborate with stakeholders, philanthropists, and property developers to bring projects rooted in socioeconomic models to fruition, benefitting all parties involved. Additionally, she plans to create opportunities for disabled individuals and single parents through remote work options, such as setting up a call centre.
Ellie has also founded the charity Ora Hou / New Life which facilitates the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals transitioning from prison into society. It takes a comprehensive holistic approach, addressing education, employment, housing, and healthcare.
While Ellie acknowledges the risks involved in employing individuals with criminal records, she emphasises the importance of a carefully planned approach. Working closely with the Department of Corrections and probation officers, Ellie ensures that individuals are placed in low-risk environments, providing them an opportunity to prove themselves and reintegrate into society. “I have become a friend to all my employees,” says Ellie. “So many people in New Zealand have never been given a chance. They have never had the privilege of having a good upbringing or the education to know any better. They are labelled as ‘bad’ from the beginning. By showing them care, respect and trust, they are more likely to achieve their goals – to prove to society and themselves that they’re worthy.”
Ellie’s work is her life’s purpose. “I’m always available, day or night,” she admits. “But that’s okay because I’m finally aligned with where I want to be. I admire the impact that individuals like David Letele make on people’s lives in low-socioeconomic areas across New Zealand. He is my inspiration. To change just one life for the better is an amazing achievement, but my ultimate goal is to change the lives of many. At MCNZ Group we aren’t just a company, we are a movement that strives every day for positive change. “
In a world that often overlooks the marginalised, Ellie stands as a beacon of hope, proving that with the right opportunities, support, and understanding, everyone can rewrite their narrative and contribute meaningfully to society.
