Tatiana came to New Zealand 12 years ago and is now a regular volunteer at our Hutt Hub. Originally an accountant in Russia, she fell in love with a Kiwi and settled here. Her role at DFS has helped her improve her language skills and find employment.
How did you hear about DFS?
I heard about DFS from Amanda Breton when I first visited "Dressed in Hutt" as a customer.
Can you tell us a bit about why you came to us for assistance?
I had spent the last 10 years being a housewife and wanted to change this situation and do something more (in a good sense of course).
What did you hope to achieve?
I wanted to find a job. I had been trying for a while and had asked in different shops and businesses.
How did we help you?
I asked the lovely lady at Dressed in the Hutt (it was Amanda) for work and she answered 'we are volunteers here'. I was happy to hear that and asked her if it was possible to add me to their team. Amanda gave me her card, some information about DFS and I left my CV with her. When I went from the shop, I felt glad that maybe I could have an opportunity to start doing something in retail where I could gain experience and practice my English more.
How did our volunteers make you feel?
When I started I did not expect so much help from all the people of DFS.
What was the outcome?
From my experience at DFS I have gone on to gain casual employment at a leading women’s fashion retailer. This was more than I expected in such a short time.
What did this mean to you?
Volunteering and my employment have made me feel younger, happier and more confident with my English as my work skills improve.
What next? Have you set any other goals?
Ultimately I would like to change from Casual to Part Time employment as this will make it easier for me to continue volunteering at DFS.
What does success mean to you?
Success for me is happiness and opportunity to do in life what I like to do. I like to connect with people and be professional and capable.
What advice would you give to other people looking to make a change?
My advice to anyone wanting to make a positive change in their life is not to be afraid to ask for help. "Knock and doors will open"
My many thanks and hugs for Hutt Hub Manager Jess Sims (she is so lovely and friendly) and lots of volunteers at the shop. My very special thanks to Amanda Breton and Carol Linehan. Amanda as Programmes Manager gave me the assistance and tools to go confidently forward in my search for a job. Carol helped rewrite my CV to a very professional level and gave me training to increase my confidence. This delicate and friendly approach from both ladies gave me the best opportunity to gain employment.
My best wishes to everyone in 2024.
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