We started the Women’s Group Project in May 2009, an initiative to empower women in our communities, by creating opportunities for them to develop new skills, confidence, and greater integration into their new country. The refugee experience in New Zealand can be an isolating one, and so we provide a way for women to support each other through regular meetings, in which we build networks and friendships across different community groups. In 2009 we held the following activities:
- MAY 1st meeting, introduction and planning
- JUNE Guest speakers Sharon and Sue Heathlite from the Ministry of Education spoke at the ECE centre and ECE training
- JULY Fun activities and ideas for women’s meetings and children’s memory developing skills
- AUGUST Guest speaker Caroline Everard spoke at the Growing Up In NZ Video Presentation and Discussion
- NOVEMBER Guest speaker Chrissie McGregor spoke at the Health is Your Wealth forum
In 2010 our emphasis has been on developing more skill oriented projects. Women in our communities have requested training in First Aid, obtaining drivers licenses, gardening, and ECE training, which we feel are essential in obtaining greater confidence, skills, better relationships with each other and with the host community, in realising personal and career goals, and ultimately a more fulfilling life in their new country.
