With her mum constantly championing her, 17-year-old Lashanz Ratahi (pictured) joined the Tupu Aotearoa programme and has flourished – both personally and professionally.
In August 2023, Lashanz approached Tupu Aotearoa provider K’aute Pasifika for assistance, finding employment.
Of Cook Islands descent, Lashanz was eligible to take part in the Ministry for Pacific Peoples initiative.
Tupu Aotearoa connects Pacific peoples with local providers which support them to access work or learning opportunities on their journey to employment, further training, or study.
Employment consultants Namuali’i Sa’u and Arasi Time took Lashanz under their wing and went about setting up a support network for the eager young woman, who was determined to grow.
With little work experience, Lashanz aimed for customer service jobs, with the small goal of getting a job, and the bigger dream of saving for her first car, Namuali’i says.
“Balancing her goals with her current learner's driver's license, our Tupu team supported her by offering driver's license help and driving practice classes,” Namuali’i says.
“The weekly talanoa sessions became a safe space for Lashanz's career journey and more planning to focus on her goals.
“Our Tupu team not only guided her career but also held workshops on essential skills like writing a resume and cover letters, job searching, and preparing for interviews.”
Lashanz's commitment, attendance, and attitude remained top-notch, and she enthusiastically took part in entry-level hospitality training, gaining barista qualifications and customer service skills, setting the stage for her future success.
In the following weeks, the Tupu team actively searched for job opportunities suited for Lashanz while also preparing her for interviews, and in September 2023, she impressed Jet Park Hotel during an interview with her humble yet confident personality.
The hotel, impressed by her attitude, offered her a temporary position in the bar/restaurant, and later expanded her role to reception/front of house.
Thriving in both roles, Lashanz received exceptional feedback for her excellent customer service and quick adaptability, Namuali’i adds.
Recognising her potential, Lashanz was offered a full-time position in the reception team, while occasionally working in the bustling restaurant.
“Watching her remarkable growth in confidence and unwavering focus on her career aspirations has been truly admirable,” Namuali’i says.
Lashanz has discussed plans with the Jet Park team about obtaining her Licence Controller Qualification.
She has fully embraced her career path with Jet Park, excelling in front-of-house responsibilities, refining her skills, and proudly obtaining her restricted license through Tupu Aotearoa funding.
Beyond her achievements at Jet Park, Lashanz's story is proof of her potential for various career paths, from hotel management to administrative work or thriving in the dynamic world of bars and restaurants.
Her journey is a powerful example of the transformative power of determination, mentorship, and a supportive community, shaping a promising future.
Visit the MPP website for more information about Tupu Aotearoa.