Step by step, Aina is honing in on her career goals

One thing really does lead to another. A year ago, Aina was searching for a job and

thought she would “do something productive” by volunteering. Joining the Yes for

Success (YFS) team, she soon found herself knee-deep in our work experience

programme and preparing for her next role in the workforce.

In our Wellington hub, Aina found a caring and supportive team and many

opportunities to grow. She took them! Aina worked with our business support team,

performed HR and marketing tasks, signed up for our workshops and stylings and

helped in our second-hand clothing boutique – Dressed on the Terrace.

She says, “Working in this wide field of roles, and taking advantage of the services

on offer, not only helped me expand my experience and knowledge in the workplace,

but allowed me to develop my communication skills and confidence. It made a huge

difference.”

Her hard work has paid off. In November, she took a temporary position as an

Admission and Enrolment Assistant at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of

Wellington. Passionate about helping improve people’s lives and looking to work

within the government sector, Aina’s ultimate goal is to become an economic

analyst. We couldn’t be happier for Aina as she takes the next step on the road to

her career.

How did you hear about YFS?

I saw it on SEEK Volunteer. At first, I applied as a volunteer just to keep productive

and be useful. The next thing I knew, I was in the YFS work experience programme.

Why did you come to us for assistance?

I was unemployed and searching for work. I wanted to gain experience and work on

my soft skills, especially social and communication skills.

How did we help you?

I applied to several YFS programmes such as stylings, workshops and the work experience programme. I learned new things, engaged with people, and got help in my job search and preparing for interviews.

How did our volunteers and staff make you feel?

The volunteers made me feel welcomed and supported. The stylists helped me find

nice clothes to wear which made such a big difference. Sasmita, the Wellington Hub

Coordinator, really saw potential in me and pushed me to do a lot of things. Through

her, I also met my mentor, Jill, who has been helping me in my life journey.

Did our programme(s) meet your expectations?

Yes, it met my expectation of gaining work experience and developing my skills. It

can be difficult taking small steps towards a career, and this is still the case, but I’m

also learning to never stop growing and to be patient. I’ll get there!

What was the result?

I’ve become more open and confident and I feel like I’ve grown personally. I also met

great people, and I think I am less self-conscious.

How would you define success?

There are many definitions of success. I’d like to achieve my career goals, be

financially stable and content and happy in life. I know it can take time, so I just need

to be patient and keep jumping on the opportunities I’m given.

What advice would you give others?

Don’t be scared to try or to ask for help and opportunities. What is the harm in it

(even if you get a no)? Once you get out of your comfort zone, then you are growing.

This is my advice to myself as well as others.

What next? Have you set any goals?

Even though I have a job now, it is only temporary and I don’t know what happens

next. It’s hard not to worry about the future but for now, my goal is to do my best in

this new job and try to build a healthy lifestyle and mindset.