Stories

Two years ago, a young former refugee named Eyob Jambo Teshome was about to embark on the next stage of his settlement journey: attending university. This was made possible with the support of a scholarship from Beca, and now, Eyob and Beca share how it’s all going.

Nisrine Zarzar’s story is one that makes your heart clench, highlights a mother’s instinct for survival and reminds you of how strong women can be.

Rahaf Almabaid, a talented writer and student, will tackle any challenges that come her way to reach her dreams.

This month marks 10 years since the conflict started, triggering more than five million people to flee the bombs and bullets and escape across borders. Millions more have been displaced inside Syria and are still in dire need of assistance. As the war continues, hope is fading fast.

Ali Mashal was separated from his family at the age of 15 when he was forced to flee Afghanistan. His story is one of survival, hope and determination. 

The plan to settle 210 people is a promising start and New Zealand Red Cross is hopeful the Government will now prioritise meeting its policy of settling 1,500 people annually.

When the harbour wall extension in Dunedin required the expertise of stone masons, New Zealand Red Cross’ Pathways to Employment team saw the perfect opportunity for skilled former refugees from Syria. 

 With support from New Zealand Red Cross' Pathways to Employment programme, Zay Oo has has been able to rediscover his passion for electrical work, embarking on a apprenticeship that will see him become a qualified electrician in the next three years.

Going through adolescence can be hard enough, but when other challenges are added, such as settling in a new country, adapting to a different culture and learning another language, life can be bit tougher for our young people.

The unlikeliest of friendships are often birthed out of common ground and interest. For Jenny and Dave Pullen, becoming Red Cross refugee support volunteers was in their common interest: to make new friends, both with other volunteers and the families they work with.

Artist Hadil Catherina, inspired by her dream for peace after fleeing the war in Syria, has picked up her paintbrush to create artworks for this year’s Charity Art Auction in Dunedin.

Atefeh Behnam Nejabat has an impressive resume, multiple qualifications and many years of experience working as an accountant. But the road to employment in Aotearoa was a little bumpy at first. With the help of New Zealand Red Cross Pathways to Employment team, she eventually got there.