Arriving in Auckland from Tehran four years ago Parisa and her husband and son were looking for a good place to raise their family.
Pregnant with their second son, Parisa spoke no English and knew no one else here. Complications with her pregnancy meant it was difficult to socialize and, in the first few months, she was very unhappy and isolated. As her health improved after the birth, she began to drive herself to the midwife, Plunket and doctor. This independence and connection with others increased her confidence. She engaged a Kiwi woman to teach her both English and Kiwi culture at home.
Parisa has also connected with other Persian immigrants and is starting a cake baking business. Now, she is confident speaking English in public with friends and customers.
“Now New Zealand is like home,” she says.
