“It was amazing to have a job seeker group with whom I could connect and share questions and experiences.”

Within a couple weeks of arriving in New Zealand, Fernando Martin approached English Language Partners (ELP) looking for an English course.

“I learned I wasn’t eligible to sign up for the regular course because of my visa type,” he says. However, Fernando says he was so lucky that the Wellington centre mentioned the Job Mentoring Service to him, and the coordinator explained how they could support his job search.

I felt so excited about the prospect of enrolling in this cool programme!

Volunteer job mentors Mario and Ben and Job Mentoring Service coordinators Olga Smith and Romesh Dissanayake offered guidance, advice and tools to improve Fernando’s job searching strategies.

“I had the opportunity to attend more than ten workshops,” he says. “They allowed me to pick up relevant concepts and insights, helping me to better understand the Kiwi work environment.”

“I am impressed and inspired by all the incredible work that the ELP team does to help newcomers in Aotearoa.”

Fernando was also part of ELP’s English for Job Seekers programme as a student. Teacher Bridget Porter developed a practical approach by providing useful resources and engaging lessons.

“These efforts made a big difference,” says Fernando.  “I will be a programmes coordinator for an independent crown entity.”

“I have finally accepted an exciting job offer aligned with my studies and previous experience in Colombia and Argentina.”

‍All the best Fernando, and many thanks for sharing your job-seeking success story!

Our English for Job Seekers course (most centres) and Job Mentoring Service (Wellington only) offers valuable support – for people looking for  employment during this challenging time. 

JOB MENTORING SERVICE

Ask our Wellington centre about their unique Job Mentoring Service