NAME: Stefni van Deventer
ORIGIN: Cape Town, South Africa
JOB: Sales and Customer Service Agent, Brand Developers Ltd
NZMA QUALIFICATIONS: Diploma in Business Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “Back home in South Africa I worked in marketing. Directly prior to moving to New Zealand I spent two years as the national operational manager for a promotional company. However I felt my career had hit the ceiling and it was time for a new adventure. I wanted to study further and I thought why not go all the way and do it in a different country?”
“OVC (a work/study/travel company) in South Africa offered me some advice and it all seemed good. So within three months my life had changed and I was on my way to New Zealand – and NZMA – to start my new life!”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Redfish were really helpful. They assisted me with potential positions, my CV and interviews. In fact they helped me secure my current position by making initial contact with Brand Developers when they were putting me forward for a temporary role there.
“Redfish had organised the temporary position for me to help out with inbound calls, however when I got to work it turned out they already had sufficient staff on the floor. But after talking to the Brand Developers HR Manager further, she asked me to come back for an interview for a different role in the sales department. I went to the interview and I got the job!”
FUTURE GOALS: “At the moment my goal is to really make a success of my current position and to start focusing on which direction I would like my career to take next. Permanent residency and travelling are two more of my focus points.”
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NAME: Moe Khankham Louangrat
JOB: Casual staff member, Eden Park Catering
One-off function and event work
COURSE: NZMA Certificate in Hospitality and Employment Skills Level 3
National Certificate in Hospitality Level 4
NZMA Certificate in Supervision Level 5
NZMA Auckland South Academy
BACKGROUND: “Before starting at NZMA I was a full-time mum. My kids are aged 11 and 6. Prior to having my family I studied fashion, which is one of my passions, but there are not a lot of jobs in that industry. My other passion is hospitality. I love being around people and am interested in the food and beverage side of things. Once both my kids were at school I decided I wanted to do something for myself so I enrolled at NZMA to study hospitality. It was a good decision for me.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Redfish has given me a lot of assistance. They have helped me set career goals and update my CV and they encouraged me to go door knocking.
“They helped me get a role as a duty manager at Eden Park during the Rugby World Cup. It was a real challenge as I hadn’t been a duty manager before but I coped really well. I had been taught all the skills I needed in class. The work at Eden Park continued after the RWC finished and I still work there on a casual basis.
“Through Redfish I also got a one-off job working as bar staff at the Coromandel Gold music festival over the New Year period.
“I also recently got a job through one of my tutors, doing a function for one of their relatives. It gave me the opportunity to put into practice all the function skills I had learnt during my studies. It went really well and I was really proud of myself. I am definitely keen to get more function work as a result of that experience.”
FUTURE GOALS: “I am going to complete my National Diploma in Hospitality at NZMA. I’d like to find regular part-time work throughout my studies, maybe in a restaurant or hotel, so that I can try something a bit different and challenge myself.
“After I graduate with my diploma I’d like to find a full-time job within the hospitality industry and work my way up. Essentially I am seeking a better future for myself and my kids.”
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NAME: Teresa Turu
JOB: Part-time cleaner, United Cleaning Services
COURSE: NZMA Certificate in Business Administration and Employment Skills Level 4
NZMA Waikato
BACKGROUND: “Before coming to NZMA I’d been on the benefit and job hunting for three years. It was during the recession so it was really hard to find work. In the past I’ve done all sorts of jobs - factory work, warehousing, packing, cleaning and fruit picking. I had also gained my Level 3 business qualification from another provider a long time ago. But I still couldn’t find a job so I decided to come to NZMA to gain my Level 4 qualification in the hope that it would improve my chances of employment.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “After studying here for a short time Redfish helped me get a job for United Cleaning Services. The Redfish recruitment advisor lined up the interview and helped me get my CV sorted, by making it heaps shorter and more concise. I work there after class, 15 hours a week.
“Yes, it is tiring studying all day and then going to work, but you get used to it. The work is a way for me to support myself through my NZMA studies - and it is the first job I have had in three years, so it’s a good feeling.”
FUTURE GOALS: “After I graduate from this course I am going to stay on and gain my NZMA Certificate in Supervision Level 5. I wasn’t originally planning to do that, but I have just decided that I may as well go all the way with my studies. Eventually I’d like to gain my Business Diploma at NZMA.
“My sister wants to start up a business and she wants me to help her run it. The qualifications and skills I gain from NZMA will help me enormously.”
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NAME: Cory Blundell
JOB: Bartender, Kingsgate Hotel, Hamilton
COURSE: NZMA Certificate in Hospitality and Employment Skills Level 3
National Certificate in Hospitality Level 4
NZMA Waikato
BACKGROUND: “Before enrolling at NZMA I was a high school dropout and didn’t know what direction I wanted my life to go in. I started a course in social work but wasn’t able to complete it for personal reasons. Then I went on the unemployment benefit for six months.
“Work and Income wanted me to find a job or do a course, which was initially why I started at NZMA. However a couple of weeks into my hospitality studies I realised I was really enjoying it! It actually turned out to be a life-changing decision for me. I now realise that the knowledge and qualifications I’m gaining at NZMA are really big building blocks to my future. I was originally only intending to complete Level 3 but I really got into it and decided to staircase to Level 4 so that I could learn more about beer and wine and food matching.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Redfish have given me the right skills to gain employment as well as knowledge about the working world. Without their help I honestly don’t think I would have got my job at the Kingsgate. They recommended me for the position, helped me with my CV and cover letter and gave me lots of tips for my interview. My Redfish Recruitment Advisor even drove me to the interview!
“I love the job, especially the people I work with and the work I do. It’s a hotel and I mainly work in the house bar. However I have been getting experience in a range of areas there including room service and conference work.”
FUTURE GOALS: ““I have just got my LCQ (Licence Controller Qualification) and soon I will be eligible to go for my Manager’s Certificate. I’d like to increase my hours at the Kingsgate after I have graduated from NZMA.
“Eventually I hope to become the general manager of a successful bar and in the next ten to 15 years I’d love to open up my own bar in Hamilton.”
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NAME: Cecelia Komene
JOB: Internship, Redfish
Part-time Floor Manager, NZMA Waikato Academy
NZMA QUALIFICATIONS: NZMA Certificate in Hospitality and Employment Skills Level 3
National Certificate in Hospitality Level 4
NZMA Certificate in Supervision
NZMA Waikato
BACKGROUND: “Back in 2005 I completed my Level 3 hospitality certificate at NZMA. I then managed Morgans Bar Bistro and Gaming for a year. After that I wanted to find another job but didn’t have much success. I moved back to the East Coast to look after a sick relative and continue looking for work. Time went by really quickly.
“When I eventually returned to Hamilton, I noticed that NZMA was offering hospitality level 4. I decided to enrol so that I could gain more qualifications in order to help me find a job. Then I was asked to do the Certificate in Supervision – and I said yes! The course was great. It was challenging, particularly the HR part, but really awesome too. I am really glad I stayed on to gain the extra qualification as it has definitely given me more knowledge.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Redfish offered me a part-time internship which I am really enjoying. I take care of all the things the Redfish Recruitment Advisor doesn’t have time for, such as contacting past students and seeing which existing students plan to staircase to further study here. I also work at the academy part-time as the floor manager.”
FUTURE GOALS: “I’ll continue working as floor manager and doing my internship with Redfish until NZMA Waikato introduces the National Diploma in Hospitality Level 5. I am hoping that might be halfway through the year. I am really keen to do it, as I want to gain more qualifications.
“I will also get Redfish to help me look for some other part-time bar and restaurant work. I really enjoy working behind the bar (even though I don’t drink!). It’s a lot of fun meeting different types of people from different cultures.
“Ultimately though, my dream is to start up my own garage. I love getting under car bonnets and getting dirty.”
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NAME: Bianca Gibbons
JOB: Sales Assistant, Lighting Direct
NZMA QUALIFICATIONS: Youth Guarantee Programme - Business Level 2 & 3
NZMA Certificate in Business and Employment Skills Level 4
NZMA Certificate in Supervision Level 5
NZMA Waikato
BACKGROUND: “I left school at 15 without any qualifications. I didn’t like school – we moved around a lot because of my father’s job and I went to 12 different schools. I was over it!
“After I left school I got a job as a produce assistant at Countdown in Huntly. I worked there for eight months and then transferred to a Countdown in Hamilton where I became a checkout assistant. But after working there for a while I decided I wanted to study and gain some qualifications so that I could get a better job.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Coming to NZMA has given me a real sense of direction. During my Business Level 4 course I was given the opportunity to spend three months as a receptionist at NZMA for work experience. Also during my studies Redfish helped me get a job at Rebo Cafe, where I worked as a cafe assistant. My Redfish Recruitment Advisor helped me with my CV and some interview techniques and she also went over my employment contract once I received it, so that was great.
“Now I have a job as a sales assistant at Lighting Direct, which I got by myself. I absolutely love it!”
FUTURE GOALS: “I am about to start studying for my Bachelor of Management Studies at the University of Waikato. If I complete the first three years with a B+ or higher average, then in the last year I can do my Honours. I plan to stay working at Lighting Direct throughout my university studies. It works in well with my course as I want to major in marketing.
“My life, and my goals, have changed a lot. Before NZMA I didn’t have any qualifications and my goal was to get any old job. But now I want to continue with my studies so that I can get a really good job - one that I am going to enjoy and that will pay me well.”
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NAME: Jasmeet Kumar
ORIGIN: Fiji
JOB: Crew member, Burger King
NZMA QUALIFICATIONS: NZMA Certificate in Hospitality and Employment Skills Level 3
NZMA Waikato
BACKGROUND: “Originally I am from Fiji. I moved here in 2005. I went to Melville High School but left school in the middle of form 6, as soon as I turned 16. I picked up some seasonal work in Whitianga, opening mussels, but when that finished and I moved back to Hamilton, I couldn’t find a job.
“I spent the next two years not really doing anything, just sitting round at home or helping out the occasional friend with some work. I got a job on a dairy farm for a few months, but when that finished I decided to do a course and gain some qualifications.
“When I wasn’t working I used to hang out at the library a bit. I started readying about hospitality and I thought it sounded interesting. I got a part-time job at Burger King but I decided I wanted to learn more about what to do and what not to do, about how to talk to customers, hygiene, food safety and that sort of thing.
“I’d read about NZMA’s hospitality courses in the paper so I decided to come in and check them out. Once I started my NZMA course I left Burger King because the hours didn’t fit around my studies.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Redfish helped me create my CV and search for jobs. They even took me around the city and showed me how to drop in my CV to restaurants and cafes! They have helped me a lot with finding work. I am now back at Burger King as a crew member – with a lot more knowledge and skills than I had last time I worked there!”
FUTURE GOALS: “My first priority is to work full-time and get rid of my loan. Eventually though I’d like to come back to NZMA and gain my Level 4 qualification as I really think that would take me to another level.”
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NAME: Carmanita Te Huna
JOB: Security Guard, Hamilton Security
Casual staff member, Red Badge Security
COURSE: NZMA Certificate in Hospitality and Employment Skills Level 3
National Certificate in Hospitality Level 4
NZMA Certificate in Business Administration and Computing Level 3
National Certificate in Retail Level 3
NZMA Waikato
BACKGROUND: “I left school at 16 and became a labourer and orchard worker in my home town Gisborne. I moved to Hamilton about 14 years ago and got into cleaning work for a commercial cleaning company, and more recently I worked in a warehouse for four years. I left my warehouse job to spend more time with my teenage daughter and have a break. At the time, my son was studying hospitality at NZMA and he suggested I come here too. That was back in 2009. Since then I have completed my Hospitality Level 3&4, Business Level 3 and retail Level 3 at NZMA!”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Redfish has been very helpful. Back when I was studying hospitality and business they lined me up with some temporary sales and marketing work which was great. Then as part of the retail course we had to do at least 40 hours volunteer work in a retail environment. I completed my 40 hours at Hospice Waikato – and I enjoyed it so much that I continued doing voluntary work for them after my work experience had finished!
“Redfish also organised some training and casual work for me with Red Badge Security, to further broaden my skills. Now that I have graduated I have got two jobs, both of which were lined up for me by Redfish. I am continuing to do event security for Red Badge on a casual basis, and I also work night shift for Hamilton Security.
“I like working in security because you get to meet lots of different people, everyone from the big bosses to the customers. It’s fun working at events and making sure that everybody enjoys themselves.”
FUTURE GOALS: “I’d like to get my Certificate of Approval for being a security guard. That certifies you for night shift, crowd-control, private eye and celebrity work. I plan to work my way up in the security field and eventually I’d like to get into management. I am already doing supervisory-level work.
“My long-term dream is to save up for my own home.”
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NAME: Brittany Patterson
JOB: Casual sales assistant, Lush
COURSE: NZMA Certificate in Business Administration and Employment Skills Level 3
NZMA Waikato
BACKGROUND: “I left high school at the end of 2010, at the age of 15, without any qualifications. School just wasn’t my thing. I spent the first half of 2011 just bumming around but I didn’t want the whole year to disappear and still not have done anything. I wanted to get into something so my nana and I started looking around at courses. We found out about NZMA and I came here to study business.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “I have recently got a job as a casual staff member at Lush, a fresh handmade cosmetics store, which I am really enjoying. Lush was the first job interview I’d been to since coming to NZMA – and I got the job!
“I am about to graduate so I am also looking for full-time work now. The amazing thing is I don’t find job interviews scary anymore! I have got so much more confidence. Redfish has helped me out with my CV and coached me through the interview process. They’ve pretty much told me what I need to say during an interview. Also a unit of our course was on CV preparation and employment which I found really helpful.”
FUTURE GOALS: “My tutor has really helped give me a sense of direction for my future. I used to dream about joining an airline, but since coming to NZMA I have realised that is not really right for me.
“I am really into my sport, and my tutor has suggested I look at joining the Army and specialising in personal training or fitness. I have never had any hardcore discipline in my life and I think it would do me a lot of good.
“Through coming to NZMA, and through the advice and support of the staff here, I have now not only got a qualification, but also a plan and a focus for my future. I feel so much better now and I feel excited about what lies ahead of me.”
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NAME: Ilya Penzin
ORIGIN: Vladivostok, Russia
JOB: Barista, bartender and waiter, Tasca
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “Back in Russia I got a marketing degree and then worked in advertising. I came to New Zealand three years ago to complete my Master of Professional Business Studies at AUT. While I was studying, I got a part-time job at a Spanish bar and restaurant, Tasca. It was a completely new, challenging and unexpectedly fascinating experience for me. The deeper into it I became, the more I enjoyed it, and after graduating from AUT I decided to change careers and become a hospitality professional.
“I wanted to extend my skills and knowledge of the industry so I researched lots of different training providers. I chose NZMA because everyone was really welcoming and they were genuinely interested in what I actually wanted to achieve.”
EMPLOYMENT: “I am still working at Tasca – I have been here for over 18 months now! I got the job by door-knocking. When I first came to New Zealand I went there with some friends and really liked the atmosphere, so later when I was looking for a job I went there with my CV. I was lucky enough to get a trial and then a job.
“It’s really good to work in hospitality at the same time as studying it, because you get to put everything you are learning into practice. At Tasca I get to do a bit of everything. I’m a waiter, a bartender and a barista!”
FUTURE GOALS: “Once I graduate I’ll work full time in the hospitality industry in a managerial role and I’ll apply for permanent residency here. I’ll definitely use the services of Redfish if I need to for my job search. One day I’d like to start up my own hospitality establishment, so all my skills – including my marketing and business skills as well as my hospitality skills – will be a great help!”
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NAME: Daehoon Son (David)
ORIGIN: Korea
JOB: Waiter, Vital Hospitality
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “I decided to study at NZMA because the length of the course was suitable for my requirements. I am really enjoying the variety and range of the studies. Also the tutors here are very friendly and the environment is very supportive.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Currently I am working as a casual waiter for Vital Hospitality, which is a hospitality recruitment agency. I got the job with the help of Redfish, who assisted me with everything from my CV and cover letter, right through to the interview, which was held at the academy.
“The services of Redfish are really valuable. The recruitment advisors are very accessible and I have really enjoyed the guest speakers that they have brought in to talk to us.”
FUTURE GOALS: “After graduating I’d like to work in a hotel as a manager either in New Zealand or back in Korea.”
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NAME: Iesha Russell
JOB: Part-time food & beverage attendant, Eden Park Catering
COURSE: NZMA Certificate in Business Administration and Employment Skills Level 3
NZMA Certificate in Business and Employment Skills Level 4
NZMA Auckland West Academy
BACKGROUND: “I have always had a dream to become an operations administrator for the Navy. So I thought I’d start working towards that dream by doing a business course. When I saw an ad for NZMA I thought ‘that’s me’!”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Redfish has been a good help to me. Rosemary, the Redfish recruitment advisor, has helped me get started on my application for the Navy. In fact I have my fitness and aptitude test with them next week! I have always known where I wanted to go, and what I wanted to do – it was just the getting there that I needed help with. And that is the help I am getting from Redfish and NZMA.
“Through Redfish I also gained employment for the Rugby World Cup, doing corporate catering at Eden Park. They have kept me on at Eden Park and I’ll keep working for them until I get into the Navy.
“During my studies, Redfish also organised two weeks work experience for me at the court house. I did data entry for marriage certificates, general filing, recording search warrants, basically learning the whole court process. It was a really good opportunity for me because I had never had an admin role and I know the Navy prefer people with experience. It was great to get some experience on my CV and I also got a lot of positive feedback about it which was awesome. I wouldn’t have had this chance if I hadn’t come to NZMA.”
FUTURE GOALS: “I am applying to the Navy as an operations administrator. They have intakes in April and September. If I am successful I will spend six months in Devonport undergoing training and then they post you out somewhere for 18 months. It’s a big step but I am really looking forward to it.
“I am fairly confident about getting in. I have taken all the right steps and I have done everything I can to maximise my chances. Now it is up to them!”
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NAME: Valee More
JOB: Self-employed therapist and coach
COURSE: NZMA Certificate in Business and Employment Skills Level 4
NZMA Auckland West
BACKGROUND: “I have been self-employed on and off for 20 years. I am a therapist and coach and I have had my own clinic for the past 12 years. However it has become really quiet so I’ve decided to transition my business into an online one.
“I found out about NZMA in the local paper. I wanted to upskill so that I could find some part-time work while I get my online business sorted and established. I also wanted to improve my computer skills, which will help me in my new business.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Already Redfish has helped me with my CV and cover letter and have done some mock job interviews with me. The support they give is really important, especially as I have been out of the hired workforce for a long time. After I graduate I will start looking for part-time work and I will definitely make the most of the services of Redfish.”
FUTURE GOALS: “My goal is to get my business booming online. I will be offering ‘Webinars’ – running online courses in things like reiki, massage and self-help. I am starting off with reiki. When you know how to do it you can earn a lot of money. It is only just starting to take off here in New Zealand and eventually I’d like to help others in my industry also start their businesses online.”
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NAME: Sakarameta Vetemotu (Meta)
JOB: Work experience, Puma, Dress Smart
COURSE: National Certificate in Retail Level 3, NZMA Auckland South Academy
BACKGROUND: “I went to Otahuhu College and left after completing seventh form. Then I spent over two years working at Villa Maria, packing and stacking wines. Everyone was really nice there and it was a lot of fun. Then I fell pregnant and left to become a stay-at-home mum for a while.
“Once my son was three months old I was ready to start doing something again. I wanted to take the opportunity to start building something for me and him. I was really keen to get into retail work as I enjoy selling and meeting people. I love fashion so I’d particularly like to work in that area of retail. When I saw in the newspaper that NZMA was offering a retail course I thought it sounded perfect.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “One of the great things about NZMA is the Redfish employment service. I have been working at the Puma store in Dress Smart for work experience. Redfish arranged the opportunity and five people from our class were put forward. We were all interviewed and I got the job. It is three weeks of unpaid work experience and I work two days a week.
“I’m really enjoying it. My duties include cashiering, working on the floor, serving, working out the back in stock and putting on security tags. It’s a lot of fun and what I am learning in class at NZMA is helping me a lot at work. After my work experience finishes I am hoping that Puma will take me on part-time. That would be great!”
FUTURE GOALS: “For the next few years I want to work in retail and build up my confidence and customer service skills. My long-term goal is to open up my own hairdressing salon in town. I have already done a bit of training but I will need to do more, further down the track.”
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NAME: Kyle Hika
JOB: Bartender, Bubble Lounge Bar, Mecca Viaduct Basin
COURSE: National Certificate in Hospitality Level 4
Certificate in Supervision Level 5
National Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5
NZMA Auckland South Academy
Diploma in Hospitality Management
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “After I finished form seven at Papakura High School I realised that I’d only got the basic hospitality qualifications so I researched the best hospitality academies and found NZMA. I chose NZMA because all the staff are caring, understanding and motivated to help the students. I did my hospitality level 3 & 4 and my Certificate in Supervision Level 5 at NZMA Auckland South and then relocated my studies to NZMA Auckland Central where I am currently completing my diploma.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “I am currently a part-time bartender at Bubble Lounge Bar which is part of Mecca Viaduct Basin. I got the job through Redfish who helped me with my CV, taught me valuable interview skills and made the appointment for my job interview. Without them, I wouldn’t have even known about the job opportunity!
“The services of Redfish have been very valuable. They gave me knowledge of the working environment and also taught me the correct process to go through to secure a job.”
FUTURE GOALS: “I would like to become a manager in a bar.”
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NAME: Kararaina Walker
JOB: Internship, Liquor King
COURSE: NZMA Certificate in Hospitality and Employment Skills Level 3
National Certificate in Hospitality Level 4
NZMA Auckland Central
BACKGROUND: “Before coming to NZMA I was studying NCEA Level 2 at Birkenhead College. After I had finished I decided to enrol at NZMA as the qualifications they offer are relevant towards my future. I recently completed my Level 3 certificate and am now in the process of gaining my Level 4.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “I am currently on a one month internship with Liquor King. I got the job through Redfish who recommended me to my employer. My Redfish recruitment advisor Sharon also assisted me by giving me relevant interview tips and arranging interview appointments for me. She has helped me throughout my studies by making sure my CV is up to date and helping me with different job opportunities.
“Thanks to Sharon I have gained a lot of confidence. Her services have not only been valuable towards my future, but have also personally allowed me to achieve goals that I never thought I could.”
FUTURE GOALS: “My goals for the future include me having a successful job that caters to my wants and needs.”
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NAME: Joo Young Kim (Jocelyn)
ORIGIN: South Korea
JOB: Front of House, Live Fish
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “After graduating from high school I came to New Zealand because I wanted to study hospitality. I’d heard about NZMA back in Korea – it’s quite a well known hospitality school. I’ve been really impressed with it. One of the main highlights has been working in the student-run cafe. Before I started this course I didn’t have any idea about what skills you need to work in a cafe. I’ve learned so much.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Currently I’m working part-time at Live Fish, a large seafood restaurant in Auckland. I got the job with the help of Redfish. They gave me advice about my CV and taught me useful job interview skills. They also gave me a lot of support which helped to give me confidence. I don’t think I would have got this job without their help.”
FUTURE GOALS: “At the moment I am really enjoying working as a front of house staff member in a restaurant. However further down the track I’d like to work in a five star hotel.”
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NAME: Shiho Takebayashi
ORIGIN: Chiba, Japan
JOB: Maruia Springs Thermal Resort, South Island
COURSE: English for Hospitality
BACKGROUND: “I worked as a hotel receptionist back in Japan. I decided to come to New Zealand to gain some hospitality experience in an international environment. My goal was to get a hospitality job in New Zealand so I chose to study English for Hospitality at Fern because it has a good reputation and is also well connected with the local hospitality industry.
“I learned a lot about the hospitality industry from my tutor and gained a lot of confidence to work here in New Zealand. I gained a lot of new skills in customer service as well as knowledge of food and wine and coffee-making. This course has made me even more passionate about the hospitality industry.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “I found the services of Redfish very helpful. They taught me how to write my CV and cover letter as well as job hunting skills. They also taught me a lot about the working environment in New Zealand.
“I found my job at Maruia Springs on the internet and had a job interview on the telephone. Ultimately I found the job myself, but Redfish prepared me very well for job hunting.”
FUTURE GOALS: “I recently graduated from my English for Hospitality course and am about to start my job at the Maruia Springs Thermal Resort in the South Island. I want to build on my hospitality skills and experience in New Zealand and continue to pursue my career as a hospitality professional.”
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NAME: Garth de Wet
ORIGIN: Durban, South Africa
JOB: General Manager, Paper Moon Cafe/Bar
COURSE: Diploma in Business Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “My background is in hospitality and customer service. I lived in the UK for two years and worked for Barclays Bank and in supervisory roles in restaurants. I also spent four years in the States, where I started off as a waiter and ended up managing fine dining restaurants in Florida!
“After living abroad I returned to South Africa and worked in hospitality in Cape Town for eight months but I was keen to try something different and also further my career, so I decided to head to New Zealand in February 2010.
“Someone told me about NZMA and their business diploma really appealed. I had previously studied marketing and management in South Africa and I’d also studied a bit of hospitality in the States, but I thought gaining a business diploma would add another feather to my cap.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Four weeks into my course I got a job as a waiter at Paper Moon Café/Bar in Mairangi Bay, near where I live. I worked there for 20 hours a week throughout my studies and moved up the ranks. After six months they put me into a supervisory role and then promoted me to a managerial role just before I graduated from NZMA in December. Shortly after, the general manager left and I was promoted again, so now I am the full-time general manager for the establishment!”
FUTURE GOALS: “I recently gained permanent residency in New Zealand which is great. Career-wise I’ll stay at Paper Moon for as long as I can and eventually I’d like to open up my own place.”
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NAME: Thi Ngoc Anh Nguyen (Angela)
ORIGIN: Vietnam
JOB: Runner, Live Fish
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “I was studying English at another Auckland provider but I decided I wanted to study hospitality and my friend recommended NZMA to me. First I completed the 12 week English for Hospitality course at Fern English and then I started my diploma at NZMA’s Auckland Central Academy.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “I’ve recently started working at five-star Asian restaurant, Live Fish, as a runner. I got the job with the help of Redfish. The Auckland Central Academy recruitment advisor helped me fix up my CV, sent it through to the general manager of Live Fish and made the appointment for my interview. Without her help I don’t think I would have got the job.
“Actually Redfish have been great while I’ve been studying with NZMA. They helped me prepare for a Sky City open day by practising mock interviews with me and they also got me work at Eden Park for the Rugby World Cup.”
FUTURE GOALS: “After I graduate I’d like to apply for a one year work visa and I’d like to work my way up from runner to waitress at Live Fish. After that I plan to go back to Vietnam and open up my own coffee shop as well as help with my family business.”
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NAME: Zele Van Wyk
ORIGIN: Pretoria, South Africa
JOB: Waitress, Spencer on Byron Hotel
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “Before coming to New Zealand in February I was the general manager of a luxury safari lodge in South Africa. I have spent many years in the hospitality industry. At university I studied tourism and wine and after graduating I moved to the US and worked in ski resorts in Colorado and Vermont. I then headed to the UK where I spent two years working at a restaurant in the English Lake District. I started there as a silver service waitress and was later promoted to assistant restaurant manager.
“I also worked as an assistant shore excursions manager on a cruise liner in the Caribbean for three years. That was incredibly hard work but it was an unreal experience. We’d work 17 or 18 hour days every single day for eight months and then get eight weeks off. It was a lot of fun and I got to explore parts of the world that I probably would never otherwise have seen.
“I loved my job at the safari lodge but South Africa doesn’t really have a future at the moment. I was keen to make a life for myself in another country. I hadn’t been to New Zealand before but I had a gut feeling that I’d really like it. And that gut feeling was right – since day one I have loved it here!
“I wanted to gain a New Zealand recognised qualification and I wanted to stay in the hospitality industry because it is what I know and what I am good at. NZMA offered me both those things, and it also appealed because the qualifications are recognised internationally as well as in New Zealand, so that counts for a lot.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Closer to graduation time I will utilize the services of Redfish. I’ll make an appointment to discuss my options and what sort of roles they may have on their books. At the moment I am waitressing at the Spencer on Byron Hotel on the North Shore. I got the job myself through SEEK. It is very convenient to where I live and it is also not too challenging. My course is very full on so my top priority is concentrating on my studies.”
FUTURE GOALS: “Eventually I’d like to gain permanent residency in New Zealand and find a challenging hospitality job where I can use my knowledge, skills and experience to work my way towards what I am hoping to obtain here.
“I’m also a writer. I used to write for the newspaper back in South Africa, but I’d like to write for a travel magazine and eventually write books about my travel experiences.”
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NAME: Danielle Nguyen
ORIGIN: Vietnam
JOB: Waitress and barista, Urban Cafe, Newmarket
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “Initially my parents wanted me to study business – but since I was a child I have been obsessed with images of my dad in his uniform at the restaurant he managed in Germany! I have always wanted to work in the hospitality industry. Luckily for me, after a big discussion with them, my parents encouraged me to follow my dream!
“A friend recommended NZMA to me. When I came in to have a look I was very impressed with what I saw and knew I was on the right track for my career.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “During the second term of my course I was taught how to make coffee and then I got a job as a barista at Sierra Cafe in Browns Bay. Now I work as a waitress and barista at Urban Cafe in Newmarket. I got the job through Seek.co.nz however I had a lot of help from my tutor and the Redfish team as far as fine-tuning my CV and preparing me for the interview. Redfish taught me the correct process to go through to get a job and they also broadened my knowledge of the workplace environment in New Zealand. In addition, Redfish helped me to secure a job with Eden Park Catering, although unfortunately I had to turn it down.”
FUTURE GOALS: “I want to open a Vietnamese restaurant in Auckland when I gain enough knowledge and experience. For the time being though I am focussing 100 percent on work and study!
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NAME: Grace Chen
ORIGIN: Brunei Darussalam
JOB: Special Events Administrator, Auckland Cancer Society
NZMA QUALIFICATIONS: National Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “I spent a year studying psychology at the University of Auckland before realising that I had no interest in it! I decided to take a year off and work full time at my existing part-time jobs. At that time I worked as a duty manager at Starbucks at night and a barista at Triniti of Silver Cafe in Mt Albert during the day. While I was working full-time I realised I had a passion for hospitality - I loved going the extra mile to put a smile on a customer’s face.
“I started researching hospitality training providers and discovered NZMA. After looking through their testimonials and hearing feedback from friends who had studied there I signed up. I haven’t looked back since!”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “When I first started at NZMA, Redfish helped me to tidy up my CV and they gave me the advice that a professional email address is highly important. Of course this proved to be very true and very useful! I myself did not utilise Redfish to their fullest capacity but have seen how successful they have been with my fellow classmates.
“For my current position I owe thanks to my wonderful NZMA tutor. He really cared about the well-being of his students and would often listen to me drone on about how I would love to work in events. Through his contacts, he referred me onto a lady working in special events at the Auckland Cancer Society. I worked as a volunteer in their special events department for a few months and when my mentor went on maternity leave I was offered her position!”
FUTURE GOALS: “I plan to continue working in special events or a corporate organisation. In a couple of year’s time I intend to open my own business specialising in food & beverage and events, possibly in New Zealand or otherwise overseas.”
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NAME: Ishwaryalakshmi (Ishu) Chandrasekar
ORIGIN: India
JOB: Hostess, Euro
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management (Advanced) Level 6
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “Although I am originally from India, most of my schooling and undergraduate courses were completed in Muscat, Oman in the Middle East. Primarily I am a peoples’ person which is why I wanted to get into the hospitality industry. As a pre-curser, I was involved in events in Muscat. This gave me the opportunity to interface with people from all backgrounds and doing a formal hospitality course seemed like the logical next step.
“I wanted to come to New Zealand to study because of its pristine beauty, warm and friendly atmosphere and multi-cultural environment. My educational advisor gave me a few different study options here but NZMA was my pick of them all!”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Although I got this job by myself, Redfish has helped me in the past by guiding me on how to write my CV and make it look more professional. They also ran through some mock interviews with me to give me an idea of how interviews are conducted in New Zealand. The Redfish team has always been supportive, caring and ready to assist.
“I work as a hostess at Euro, which is run by Simon Gault and owned by the Nourish Group. Initially I started out as a beverage carrier, then I moved to food service and recently I was promoted to the position of hostess. In this role I take reservations, take guests to the table and sometimes do the whole dinner service for a table if the restaurant is busy. I also help close off and settle bills and close down the restaurant.”
FUTURE GOALS: “My aim is to become a world class hospitality professional and specialise in the areas of food and beverage. I am keen to gain experience in world class hotels and plan to do some further study after graduating from NZMA. Within the next 15 years I aim to set up my own restaurant.”
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NAME: Teretina Kairua
ORIGIN: The Cook Islands
JOB: Liquor License Monitor (Supervisor), Eden Park Catering (EPC)
Duty Manager, Shed 10
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “In the past I have worked as a mechanic, I have worked in accounts and I’ve also helped with the family business. Then, with the encouragement of my father, I decided to study hospitality at NZMA. I am just about to graduate!”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “The Redfish team are very good at communicating with the students. They gave me some good tips on interview skills and also assisted me with my CV. Although I secured the job at Shed 10 myself, Redfish helped me gain my Rugby World Cup work with Eden Park Catering. Redfish has a partnership with them. I did the EventStar training and then Redfish lined me up to attend an EPC open day which included an interview and a tour.”
FUTURE GOALS: “After I graduate with my hospitality management diploma I’d like to continue on with some business studies at NZMA. Eventually I’d love to run my own business, particularly a restaurant or resort.”
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NAME: Natalie Alfonso
ORIGIN: South Africa
JOB: Sales Consultant/Photo Lab Operator, Noel Leeming, Sylvia Park
COURSE: Diploma in Business Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “Back in South Africa I worked for six years in a private corporate company. I started out in reception and later moved into guest relations and reservations. I spent my last two years there working in the finance department.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “Although I found my current role through SEEK, Redfish helped to prepare me for my interview and formatted my CV to the New Zealand standard. They also put other suggestions forward in regards to employment which was all good experience for me.
I also secured a position at Eden Park through the partnership Redfish has with Eden Park Catering, but unfortunately it clashed with my job at Noel Leeming so it didn’t work out.”
FUTURE GOALS: “My plan is to settle in New Zealand and find employment relevant to my NZMA business studies. I’d like to obtain a full-time role once I graduate and grow within an organisation.”
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NAME: Dionne Gertenbach
ORIGIN: Johannesburg, South Africa
JOB: Guest Services Office, Stamford Plaza
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “In South Africa I worked in the motor industry, most recently as a service advisor for a Volvo motor dealership. But I have always had a strong passion for food and hospitality. A couple of years ago I came across an ad that said ‘work and study in New Zealand’ and I also went to a seminar about it. It got me really interested and since then I have been saving money and working towards coming over here, and eventually bringing my wife and daughter over here to. South Africa is a beautiful country but I want to provide a more stable, better future for my daughter.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “I have a job as a Guest Services Officer at the Stamford Plaza. Originally they employed me as a porter – but the day before I started they rang and said they wanted to put me in reception instead. It’s great! I got the job through Redfish – they prepped me on dress code, my CV, interview techniques, then got me in touch with the right people and lined up the interview. They also gave me the heads-up on what to expect at the interview and that really helped to prepare me.
“I am starting off in Comms in the back office and once I am fully trained on all the systems I will move into the front reception. There is plenty of room to grow with the Stamford and also, as it is an international chain, room to move abroad with the company.”
FUTURE GOALS: “I would like to stay with the Stamford Plaza to learn as much as I can and grow as much as I can. From there I will see!”
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NAME: Eddie Chae
ORIGIN: Pusan, Korea
JOB: Part-time barista and cashier, Esquires Coffee House
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “My family and I moved to New Zealand when I was nine years old so I have pretty much grown up here. I went to Takapuna Grammar and in my final year I studied hospitality and tourism which I really enjoyed. I play a lot of golf and in 2008 I went to South Africa to compete in a golf competition and it dawned on me that most of the world’s top courses are connected with hotels, resorts and the hospitality industry. I thought studying hospitality would be a good way of linking my passion for golf with an exciting career in hospitality.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “The first part-time job I had during my NZMA studies was as a cashier, barista and waiter at a cafe in Devonport. I worked there for six months but had to leave because I needed an operation on my wrist. Once I recovered I went out job hunting again, but this time I didn’t have any success.
“That’s when I approached Redfish, NZMA’s employment service. They showed me where I was going wrong with my CV and cover letters, lined up some interviews for me and gave me a few pointers – suddenly employers were a lot more interested in me! That experience made me realise the power of a good CV and cover letter.
“Currently I am working at Esquires on High Street as a barista and cashier. I am really enjoying making great coffee for people every day and I have a lot of regular customers.”
FUTURE GOALS: “There are big golf resorts all over the world now. I could end up working somewhere like Hawaii! Also, thanks to all the management knowledge I’ve gained at NZMA – and my passion for coffee - I’d also love to one day open up my own cafe.”
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NAME: Kengo Omoto
ORIGIN: Osaka, Japan
JOB: Food and Beverage Attendant, Eden Park
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: ““NZMA’s employment service Redfish helped me get my first hospitality job in New Zealand. I am a casual staff member at Eden Park, working as a food and beverage attendant at the rugby games, cricket matches and other events. I love the work – it enables me to use the knowledge I have learnt at NZMA on real customers. It is a great chance to practice.
“I will be working at Eden Park during the Rugby World Cup which I am very excited about. It will be challenging because it will be so busy, and the entire world will have their eyes on New Zealand and the level of service people experience while they are visiting for the event – so it is important that I do a really good job. It’s going to be a great experience for me and when I go for future jobs I will be able tell potential employers that I worked for the Rugby World Cup. I think that will look quite impressive!”
FUTURE GOALS: “After I graduate I’d like to get a full-time job as a food and beverage attendant – that side of the hospitality industry is my passion. My long term goal is to work my way up to managerial level and eventually I’d love to open my own cafe.”
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NAME: Sandro Reyes
ORIGIN: Manila, Philippines
JOB: Waiter, Eden Park
COMPLETED: NZMA Certificate in Hospitality and Employment Skills Level 3
CURRENTLY STUDYING: National Certificate in Hospitality Level 4, NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “I moved to New Zealand with my family four years ago and completed my high school years at Glenfield College. I then spent six months studying General English before starting my hospitality studies at NZMA in July 2010.
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “The Redfish recruitment team has been really helpful. They are always there to help and make sure you have everything you need. They helped me prepare for my job interviews and made sure my CV looked good. Then they lined up some work experience at the Langham for me so that I could have some hospitality experience on my CV and to give me the opportunity to serve real customers and have a real boss. I did ten unpaid shifts as a banquet attendant. That was the first job I have ever had!
“Now I have a paid job as a casual waiter at Eden Park. It’s a lot of fun – it’s close to the field so you get to see the games. I am very excited about working there for the Rugby World Cup. We have started training for it already! The great thing about the hospitality industry is that there are so many different types of jobs to choose from. The world will always need hospitality workers!”
FUTURE GOALS: “After completing my diploma I might go onto further study and gain a Bachelor of Hospitality. I’d also love to find a job in a hotel or on a cruise ship. My long-term dream though is to become a flight attendant, as it is well-paid and also provides you with lots of opportunities to travel.”
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NAME: Alexandra Knight
JOB: Customer Service Specialist, Inland Revenue
COURSE: NZMA’s Straight 2 Work Business Administration and Communication Skills
NZMA Waikato
BACKGROUND: “Before studying at NZMA I had just finished my last year of high school and decided that I wanted to work instead of going into tertiary education. Because of the shortage of jobs, I had to go on the unemployment benefit and still struggled to get a job. Work and Income told me about a free education programme that could help me get straight into work and I thought that I’d try it, as all my other attempts at finding a job had failed. I really enjoyed the course, especially learning about the business side of things with contracts and workers’ rights. It made me develop a keen interest in business and the laws behind it.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “I graduated a few weeks ago and already have a job as a Customer Service Representative with Inland Revenue. I had a lot of help and support from Redfish. They helped me improve my CV and gave me lots of valuable interview advice. They even got me an appointment with a clothing agency so that I could have proper interview clothes. Without their help I definitely don’t think I would have this great job!”
FUTURE GOALS: “I plan to continue on in my job until my 12 month fixed term contract has finished and then hopefully either renew my contract or try and get another job at Inland Revenue. I want to continue climbing the ranks in business as I already love my job and plan to be doing either this, or something similar, for a few years yet.”
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NAME: Evette Du Plessis
ORIGIN: Cape Town, South Africa
JOB: Sales Associate, Konica Minolta
COURSE: National Diploma in Business Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “Back in South Africa I was an art director for a big fashion retailer. I have always worked in creative roles including fashion styling, photography and graphic design. However it became clear that I needed a business/marketing qualification at diploma level in order to progress in my career. I was also ready to make a life-change and try something completely different, so after looking at lots of different countries, I decided to head to New Zealand and study here.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “When I first got to New Zealand I worked in a contact centre and also did some part-time casual work at Eden Park in the corporate boxes. I still work at Eden Park from time-to-time, along with a bit of freelance design work. However my main job now is as a sales associate for Konica Minolta. I got the job through Redfish, who recommended me for the position, set up the interview and followed it up. My role is in telemarketing and sales. I really enjoy it and am finding it to be a great way to learn about the New Zealand culture. Konica Minolta is a big company with a lot of scope for development.”
FUTURE GOALS: “My ultimate goal would be to combine my creative talents with my business skills – maybe open my own ad agency or graphic design company.”
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NAME: Gayan Priyadarshana
ORIGIN: Sri Lanka
JOB: Food and beverage attendant, Hotel Pullman Auckland
COURSE: Diploma in Business Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “My background is in financial services. I have a Diploma in Marketing Management and have worked for six years in areas such as sales support and credit control. I was looking to gain some sort of international experience and qualifications.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “The Redfish employment service was a big draw card for me in regards to studying at NZMA. They introduce you to potential employers and coach you on interview techniques.
“Currently I am working as a food and beverage attendant at the Hotel Pullman Auckland. Although I got the job myself, Redfish were very helpful. They supported me in my job search endeavours and gave me lots of tips for my CV and also for during the interviews.
“Even though my role is hospitality-related, there are opportunities within the hotel to work my way up to supervisory level, so I believe it has the potential to become a business role.”
FUTURE GOALS: “After I graduate at the end of this year I will apply for a work visa here. Things depend a lot on that, but my dream is to bring my wife and two kids over here and gain permanent residency. Within the next two years I’d like to be working in a managerial position.”
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NAME: Leigh-Ann Newton
ORIGIN: Johannesburg, South Africa
JOB: Telemarketing associate, Konica Minolta
COURSE: Diploma in Hospitality Level 5
NZMA Auckland Central Academy
BACKGROUND: “I have been working in the travel industry for the last ten years. I spent a year in the UK working as a travel agent and then back in South Africa I worked for a number of travel companies including British Airways and luxury African safari tour company And Beyond.
“I love South Africa but because of the crime and the government, things are going pear-shaped there. I just couldn’t see a future for myself there anymore so wanted to move to another country. Over the years I have had heaps of part-time jobs in hospitality and have always enjoyed them. My long-term dream is to open my own restaurant so I thought studying hospitality at NZMA would be very helpful.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “I work four days a week as a telemarketing associate for Konica Minolta. This involves not just telemarketing work but also putting together proposals, like a miniature accounts manager role. Although it is not directly hospitality related, it is all about customer service, and the sales part of the job just comes naturally to me. Once my boss saw me in action he asked me to introduce him to Redfish so he could have access to other NZMA students. Now Konica Minolta is one of the companies that Redfish recruits students for!”
FUTURE GOALS: : “By the end of the year I can see myself as an accounts manager at Konica Minolta, making a lot of money for myself and the company. Further down the track I’d like to open my own restaurant.”
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NAME: Iris Kupu
JOB: Free-to-call business directory, 0133
COURSE: NZMA Certificate in Business and Employment Skills Level 4
NZMA Auckland West Academy
BACKGROUND: “The first course I did at NZMA was back in 2006 when I gained my Certificate in Contact Centre and Employment Skills. After graduating I got a job at Telecom and have spent the past six years working for them as a customer service representative (CSR). However I have mastered my contact centre role and am looking for a new challenge so I decided to gain another qualification. I wanted to come back to NZMA to study because they were there for me at the beginning of my journey and I know they will always be there to help me.”
THE REDFISH EXPERIENCE: “I have already used the services of Redfish. I had a one-on-one session with one of the Redfish recruitment consultants and she was very helpful in reviewing my CV. After she had reviewed my CV I was overwhelmed by the number of responses I had for part-time work! Redfish provides awesome service and I recommend all students make use of them.”
FUTURE GOALS: “After I graduate I’d like to launch my new career. I will make the most of the Redfish team. Eventually I’d also like to go onto further study.”
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