BNZFS Hosts Interactive Program to Support Bangladeshi Newcomers in New Zealand

The Bangladeshi New Zealand Friendship Society (BNZFS) recently organized an interactive program to address the real-life challenges faced by Bangladeshi students and families settling in New Zealand. The initiative began with an anonymous survey designed to capture experiences around financial struggles, cultural adjustment, and academic integration.

Program Highlights

Following the survey, BNZFS hosted a roundtable seminar featuring recruitment agency representatives, an immigration barrister, and community entrepreneurs. Key insights included:

Education Gaps: Many Bangladeshi students choose commerce-related subjects, while New Zealand’s job market has higher demand in IT, healthcare, and childcare.
Housing & Living Costs: Arriving with family initially creates significant financial pressure. Experts suggested that one member should settle first before bringing others.
Job Market Realities: Employment opportunities take longer than expected. Experts emphasized CV preparation, networking, and openness to entry-level roles.

The immigration expert warned about misleading practices by some agents in Bangladesh, urging prospective migrants to seek accurate information. Entrepreneurs encouraged newcomers to remain flexible and proactive in finding opportunities.

Action Points

Share survey summaries with participants.
Form a Champions Group to lead information-sharing initiatives.
Use Facebook as a key platform for resources and community voices.
Facilitate connections with recruitment experts and organize career seminars.
Plan a follow-up seminar next year.

The event concluded with souvenirs and complimentary food, reinforcing BNZFS’s commitment to building a supportive community for newcomers.