Fatemeh finds her feet with a little help from her friends

Fatemeh, one of our volunteers, says a resounding ‘Yes!’ – to success. In February, she left Iran to come to New Zealand with her husband. Feeling homesick and unsettled, she reached out to Yes for Success (YFS) and joined the team as a retail assistant in our Wellington Boutique. As well as work experience and stylish work outfits, Fatemeh comes away with a whole new group of YFS friends.

“YFS became like a second home during one of the most vulnerable times in my life,” says Fatemeh. “They helped me to face a new environment, get a new start and a new job. In Iran, volunteering is very rare so I was uncertain at first but I’m so glad I joined the team here. I highly recommend it.”

It paid off - this week she started a new retail and customer service job in a pharmacy. Well done Fatemeh and welcome to your new home and life in New Zealand!

How did you hear about YFS?

I found YFS through a listing on Seek Volunteer. The Retail Assistant position seemed like a good way to get local experience and learn more about working in New Zealand.

Why did you come to us for assistance?

I wanted to improve my communication skills, gain local experience, and become more confident in a New Zealand work environment. Volunteering at YFS felt like a good step to help me get started.

How did we help you?

The programme gave me a safe and welcoming space during my early days in New Zealand — a time that can be emotionally challenging for anyone starting over. I especially want to thank Sasmita Kumar, the Wellington Hub Coordinator, for her incredible support and kindness. Her encouragement and warm presence made a big difference in my journey and helped turn this experience into something truly meaningful.

How did our volunteers make you feel?

The volunteers at YFS were always respectful and friendly. They made me feel comfortable and welcomed, and I was able to make good friends just when I needed support the most.

Did our programme meet your expectations?

Yes, the programme exceeded my expectations. I had a styling interview with Irene, which turned out to be one of my most enjoyable experiences. She paid great attention to detail and made sure I looked my best.

What was the result?

The experience boosted my confidence and helped me develop new skills. It also made me feel more connected to the community and better prepared for future opportunities.

How would you define success?

For me, success means saying “yes” to every opportunity that comes my way — and eventually, saying “yes” leads to success! Maybe that’s why I found the perfect place at YFS, where every “yes” opens a new door.

What advice would you give others?

My advice is to be patient and understand that all paths have challenges. It’s important to choose the path with struggles you’re willing to face, ask for help when needed, and never lose hope. Perseverance through difficulties leads to growth and success.

What next – Have you set any goals?

My goal is to excel in the role I’ve started and continuously improve my skills. I want to build a strong foundation that will help me advance to higher positions in the future and contribute more meaningfully to my workplace and community.