Miia follows a new path to success

Changing career direction is never easy but that’s exactly what Miia has successfully done. After years in hospitality Miia wanted to pursue a career in healthcare but needed the skills, experience and confidence to make that happen. She took the first step towards her new self by joining Yes for Success (YFS) as a work experience volunteer. Miia threw herself into many different tasks and made the most of our workshops to gain invaluable office and software skills. It paid off – she is now leaving us to take up a job as a dental assistant/receptionist.

Miia says, “I’m grateful for my time as part of the YFS team. It’s such a welcoming, friendly and culturally rich environment. They really helped me on my journey towards a new profession.”

Miia’s is an inspirational story of finding the courage to reach out no matter what and follow new paths in pursuit of a dream job. We’re thrilled for her and wish her all the best in her new career.   

How did you hear about YFS?

I came across YFS while looking for volunteer opportunities in Wellington. I decided to reach out because I liked the welcoming look of the organisation and have an interest in clothing and style.

Why did you come to us for assistance?

I was ready for a change after working in hospitality for many years. I joined the work experience programme at YFS because I wanted to develop my skills and gain office experience suited to the jobs I was applying for. My world had become quite narrow when I was between jobs, and I felt nervous about how I would fit back into the workplace. I wanted to focus on rebuilding my confidence and reconnecting with the community. Sasmita and the YFS team were so warm and encouraging, which helped me come out of my shell and connect with people again.

How did we help you?

Volunteering at YFS gave me the chance to try out new administrative and creative tasks within a supportive environment. The team helped me to identify areas where I wanted to improve and encouraged me to try new tasks outside my comfort zone. I felt good going into the office each day knowing that I was contributing to the organisation while developing new skills and rebuilding my confidence.

How did our volunteers make you feel?

The volunteers were incredibly friendly and made me feel welcome. It was great to work alongside people from many different backgrounds and cultures. I am very grateful for their support. The YFS events and the volunteer celebrations that we hosted together were a real highlight for me.

Did our programmes meet your expectations?

Definitely! I gained experience using a range of Microsoft Office software, learned how to take meeting minutes and improved my phone and communications skills when talking with clients. These are all skills I will use in my new job as a dental assistant/receptionist.

What was the result?

I came away more prepared to re-enter the workforce, and felt confident, uplifted and open to making connections. My new job is a perfect mix of practical and administrative duties. It's a significant step toward my dream of working in healthcare. I also loved being around clothing, and experimenting helped me find my own personal style.

How would you define success?

Never give up, always find the courage to keep going. When things feel hard and you're unsure of yourself, just keep trying – every bit helps take you to where you want to be. 

What advice would you give others?

Be brave, reach out, and try new things. Small steps add up and can lead to big changes over time.

What’s next? Have you set goals?

As I settle into my new job, my goal is to learn as much as I can and to become a great dental assistant.