Finding My Path: A Refugee’s Journey Through Education and Employment

Tut in conversation with HOST's Community Sponsorship Coach, Steph Oh

Supporting Refugees, Strengthening Communities

When Tut arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand through the Community Refugee Sponsorship Programme, he was eager to begin a new chapter of his life — one filled with opportunity, learning, and contribution. Adjusting to a new country, culture, and workplace environment is no small task, but with preparation, support, and perseverance, he found his footing and began to thrive.

“What helped me take a confident step toward employment in New Zealand was my mental and personal preparedness. Before arriving, I conducted thorough research and understood the challenges I might face. This preparation gave me clarity and resilience to navigate the transition smoothly.”

Before even setting foot in New Zealand, Tut had already taken important steps to prepare himself. His proactive mindset of researching, planning, and mental preparation, gave him an early advantage. Many newcomers find that understanding the systems and expectations of a new country can significantly ease the transition.

Once settled, Tut immersed himself in local opportunities designed to support newcomers entering the workforce.

“I actively participated in employment workshops and received valuable support from the Approved Sponsor Group, which played a key role in my early integration. Being directly involved in the local community made it easier to build friendships and form connections that supported me throughout my settling-in journey.”

A Helping Hand: Community at the Heart of Integration

 

The Approved Sponsor Group made up of dedicated community volunteers, played an essential role in helping him connect with local networks. These connections not only supported his job search but also fostered a sense of belonging and confidence. Community involvement became a cornerstone of his successful integration.

Starting in a new country often means beginning from the ground up, and Tut approached this phase with humility and determination.

“To get started, I looked for an entry-level job and began working as a casual process worker at Sanitarium. When a technician role was later advertised, I applied and thanks to the skills, reliability, and work ethic I had demonstrated in my process work role, I was offered the position. I was also fortunate to receive strong recommendations from the various supervisors I worked under, which reinforced my suitability for the technician role.”

This progression from a casual worker to a technician reflects not only professional growth but also the recognition of his hard work and dedication. His story shows how small beginnings can open doors to long-term stability and success.

However, the journey wasn’t without challenges.

“Initially, I faced challenges — many employers were seeking candidates with New Zealand experience or certification, which I didn’t have. To overcome this, I began volunteering with the Approved Sponsor group and enrolled in a hospitality course through Skills Update (later changed to Upskill). Although my technician role is in a different field, the hospitality training helped me develop strong communication skills and food safety knowledge, which proved valuable in my current position.”

Like many newcomers, Tut faced the common barrier of “New Zealand experience.” But instead of being discouraged, he took action — volunteering, upskilling, and gaining new qualifications. His willingness to learn and adapt helped him build a foundation for future opportunities.

Education as a catalyst

Education continued to be a driving force in his journey.

“Through the Approved Sponsor group, I also learned about education opportunities available in New Zealand. This inspired me to continue my Mechanical Engineering degree at Manukau Institute of Technology. With the support of my manager and team leader, who offered flexibility in my work schedule, I’ve been able to balance both work and study effectively.”

Balancing full-time work with study is no easy feat, yet with community support and workplace understanding, Tut has been able to pursue his long-term goals while contributing to the workforce.

His story is a powerful example of how the Community Refugee Sponsorship Programme not only supports initial resettlement but also empowers refugees to build sustainable futures through education and meaningful employment.

For Tut, the journey continues — one shaped by determination, community, and the belief that with the right support, new beginnings can lead to lasting success.