New Your professional growth, all in one place — explore the catalogue →
CIBA
Log in

Good Intentions Are Not Enough: Governance and Controls in the NPO Sector

Non profit organisations operate on trust. Weak governance and controls destroy that trust quickly. This session explains how failures occur.

2 CPD units 9 September 2026 1 presenter

What will set you apart

By completing this course you will gain the following competencies

  • Governance responsibilities in NPOs
  • Common compliance failures
  • Why internal controls matter
  • Where accountability breaks down
  • How poor controls affect funding
  • Where professionals are exposed

Event breakdown

  • Governance in the NPO sector
  • Compliance responsibilities
  • Internal control basics
  • Common failures
  • Accountability structures
  • Impact on funding
  • Strengthening controls
  • Professional responsibility
Category: EthicsType: CPD CourseCPD category: Ethics

Description

NPOs often rely on good intentions rather than strong systems. This creates risk. This session focuses on governance, compliance, and internal controls in the NPO environment. Weak oversight, poor documentation, and unclear accountability regularly lead to funding issues and reputational damage. Understanding how governance and controls should function helps professionals support sustainability and protect trust. Strong structures protect donors, beneficiaries, and professionals alike. 

Presenters

Leana van der Merwe

Leana van der Merwe — Leana van der Merwe is a Chartered Accountant and Registered Auditor with over 18 years of experience in business accounting, audit and corporate governance. A former Audit Director and professional-body Technical and Standards Executive, she has guided more than 14,000 professionals through complex regulatory matters. Leana also serves on the PAFA Technical Advisory Group, the IFAC Anti-Money Laundering Committee and the IFRS Foundation SME Implementation Group.

You will earn a certificate

On successful completion you will receive a certificate for 2 CPD units in Ethics.

Requirements

  • Laptop, desktop, or mobile device with internet access
  • Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Safari, or Firefox browser