In response to the growing need for clear and accessible information about immigration policies, we recently partnered with the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) to host a cultural orientation session specifically tailored for Queenstown’s Fijian community. This gathering aimed to address pressing questions about visa options, workplace rights, and navigating changes in immigration policies, ensuring that everyone feels informed and empowered as they plan for the future.
A Session Driven by Community Need
The session was requested by Akariva Nawai, the Chairman of the Queenstown Fijian Community Trust, who recognised the need for accurate and timely information regarding the visas of many community members. A significant portion of the Fijian population in Queenstown is on work visas, with many visas set to expire next year. This has led to an increased demand for clarity about their options moving forward, especially in light of recent changes to immigration policies.
To address this, we reached out to Tracy Poole, the Manager of the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), who kindly agreed to lead the session. Tracy’s expertise and willingness to assist were invaluable in ensuring the event was both informative and impactful.
An Engaging and Informative Session
The session was well-attended by members of the Fijian community, eager to get the answers they needed about their visa options and rights. Tracy Poole delivered an engaging presentation that outlined the recent changes in immigration policies, exploitation in the workplace as well as the steps community members can take as their visas near expiration.
One of the highlights of the session was the interactive Q&A, where the community had the opportunity to ask questions directly. Tracy answered each question with clarity and patience, providing detailed explanations that helped attendees understand the full scope of their options. There were many thoughtful questions raised about specific visa scenarios, eligibility for renewals, and how to navigate the often-complicated immigration process. Tracy handled each query with great care, ensuring that everyone left with the information they needed to move forward with confidence.
A Valuable Resource for the Community
The session proved to be incredibly valuable for the Fijian community, with participants expressing their gratitude for the practical and clear advice shared by Tracy. Many attendees felt reassured by the session, knowing exactly what steps they needed to take regarding their visas. The community left feeling more empowered and better equipped to manage their immigration status, thanks to the straightforward and personalised information provided.
Fostering a Stronger, More Informed Community
This session is a prime example of our commitment to supporting Queenstown’s diverse communities by addressing their unique needs. By collaborating with organisations like the Citizens Advice Bureau, we can ensure that community members receive the guidance they need to make informed decisions and feel more confident about their futures.
We’d like to extend a special thank you to Akariva Nawai for initiating this session, and to Tracy Poole for generously sharing her expertise and taking the time to answer so many important questions. The success of this session highlights the power of community collaboration and the importance of providing timely, relevant support.
We look forward to continuing our work to support the Fijian community and all other communities in Queenstown. Stay tuned for more sessions, and thank you to everyone who participated in making this event such a success!
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