Welcome to the Champion Mindset Collective

Ellie Stone

Social Impact Leader | Strategic Advisor | Advocate for Second Chances

Ellie Stone is a dynamic strategist, advisor, and changemaker who has dedicated her life to transforming communities through practical, compassionate solutions. Originally trained as a biologist in Iran, Ellie moved to New Zealand 29 years ago and has since built a legacy of social impact, business leadership, and empowerment.

As the former Group General Manager of MCNZ Group, Ellie led a suite of businesses offering holistic solutions across education, employment, housing, and healthcare. Under her leadership, MCNZ became a lifeline for former prisoners, recovering addicts, and refugees — people often overlooked by society. Through her powerful combination of empathy and executive expertise, she helped clients rediscover dignity and purpose while driving strong satisfaction and sustainable outcomes.

With over two decades of experience across FMCG, software, and B2B distribution, Ellie has successfully managed global stakeholder relationships, negotiated complex deals, and led high-performing teams. She is known for her problem-solving mindset, people-first leadership, and her ability to inspire and implement change at scale.

In her 50s, Ellie courageously shifted from corporate success to social entrepreneurship, proving it's never too late to pursue your calling. Today, she serves as a trusted advisor and strategy planner for businesses committed to community transformation and ethical impact.

In 2025, Ellie was crowned Elite Mrs. Celebrity, a recognition that celebrates not only her personal resilience but also her passionate commitment to making New Zealand a more inclusive and compassionate place for all.

S2-E143 - Hiring Hope: Why MCNZ Group Believes in People, Not Pasts with Ellie Stone

In this powerful episode of the Champion Mindset Collective, I sit down with Ellie Stone, a biologist turned social entrepreneur and the heart behind MCNZ Group. Originally from Iran, Ellie shares how she went from surviving war and hardship to building a business in New Zealand that offers second chances to former prisoners, recovering addicts, and refugees.

We talk about the raw realities of reintegration, ethical recruitment in industries like construction, and the cracks in our current justice and refugee systems. Ellie and I also explore our shared mission of using business as a vehicle for hope, healing, and human dignity.

Whether you’re passionate about social impact, run a business, or just believe in the power of redemption — this one’s for you.

✨ Key Episode Highlights & Takeaways:

The power of second chances – Ellie shares real-life stories of people transforming their lives through meaningful employment.
Holistic support matters – It’s not just about jobs. Housing, healthcare, education, and community all play a part in long-term reintegration.
Criminal justice reform through education – Ellie proposes redirecting prison funding into education and rehabilitation.
Breaking stigma – Honest conversations on hiring people with records, working with corrections, and navigating business risk.