Driving Towards Employment
- birgitgrafarend
- Apr 4
- 4 min read
For many former refugees in Aotearoa, obtaining a driver’s license is more than just a personal accomplishment. It is a crucial step towards employment, independence, and a better quality of life. Without a licence, job opportunities are significantly limited, particularly in areas where public transport is scarce.
Recognising this challenge, ChangeMakers Resettlement Forum have been empowering former refugees by providing the skills and support needed to get behind the wheel since 2011. Starting initially with a bespoke driving programme for women (Turning the Curve), the services have grown to include the delivery of a government-funded refugee driver training (Driving for Inclusion) for both men and women. In recent years, this programme has expanded from Wellington to Masterton, Levin and Palmerston North after the government opened settlement areas and additional funding became available.
Breaking Barriers to Employment
Breaking down barriers to employment for former refugees and migrants isn’t just the right thing to do - it’s a powerful investment in our communities. When people are given a fair chance to work, contribute, and grow, everyone benefits. From building relationships between communities and potential employers, internship programmes, to support navigating the job market, we are working to remove the barriers to gain meaningful employment opportunities, self-fulfillment and inclusion. A major obstacle to employment in Aotearoa New Zealand for newcomers, especially former refugees, is the issue of driving.
Speaking with Kate Twyford, ChangeMakers Driving Team Lead and Coordinator, she highlighted that a driver’s licence is often a prerequisite for work, even in non-driving roles. Many participants have waited months or even years for a job, only to find out they needed a licence to secure it. In some cases, people have resorted to driving illegally because there simply isn’t another way to get to work, school, or essential services. Driving for Inclusion provide a legal, structured pathway to obtaining a licence – offering not just driving skills, but also newfound confidence and independence.
One success story involves a participant gaining employment as a casual support worker. Kate explains further:
“After obtaining his full license through the programme, he was offered a permanent contract. Other families have shared how important it was for both parents to drive, this enabled one person to care for the family and attend essential appointments while freeing up the other to take on full-time work. With an estimated 70-80% of jobs requiring a licence, the programme is directly contributing to financial security for many families.”
A Tailored Learning Programme
To participate in the Driving for Inclusion Programme, individuals must be either quota or convention refugees, meaning there’s currently a gap for those arriving through family reunification or community sponsorship pathways.
For some learners, the idea of driving may be completely new. Kate highlights that many may come from rural or culturally different backgrounds where driving wasn’t common.
“The programme helps them navigate these challenges, particularly in rural areas like Masterton and Levin, where having a licence is essential for daily life. It enables parents to take their children to school, go to the supermarket, and, most importantly, access employment opportunities.”
The Role of Volunteers
A key part of the programme’s success is its volunteers – people from all walks of life, who enjoy driving and understand the importance of having a driver’s licence here in Aotearoa New Zealand. Many of the volunteers have previously taught their friends or family to drive. Though not a prerequisite, this experience can be helpful.
Before being matched with a volunteer, the learner is first assessed by a professional driving instructor. The instructor ensures the learner has a basic understanding and control of the car and provides initial lessons if needed. The volunteer is also offered guidance by the professional driving instructor. Learners then go on to practise driving with their volunteer for two one-hour sessions per week, using dual-controlled vehicles before sitting their restricted or full license tests. Every four weeks, the professional driving instructor checks in on progress, ensuring both learners and volunteers are supported throughout the process.
Volunteering as a driver mentor is not just about teaching someone how to drive - it’s about building connections, creating a welcoming community, and breaking down barriers. Volunteers get the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds, hear their stories, and play a direct role in helping someone achieve a life-changing goal. Additionally, volunteers get to refresh their own driving skills. Many report being a better driver after volunteering in this role!
A Road to Opportunity
Driving for Inclusion is about more than just driving - it’s about giving people the tools they need to thrive in their new home. By providing former refugees with the opportunity to obtain a driver’s licence, the programme is breaking down employment barriers, increasing economic participation, and fostering stronger, more connected communities.
If you want to support someone on their journey to independence and employment, consider becoming a volunteer driver. You don’t need to be a professional instructor - just someone who has held a full New Zealand driver's license for two years or more and is willing to give their time and knowledge to help someone gain a crucial life skill.
Are you ready to make a difference? Whether you’re a potential volunteer or know someone who could benefit from the programme, get in touch today and be part of a movement that is changing lives - one driver’s licence at a time.
If you are keen to be involved, please contact ChangeMakers Resettlement Forum (Wellington, Levin, Palmerston North and Masterton):
Email: kate.twyford@crf.org.nz
Website: https://crf.org.nz/
There are Refugee Driver Licencing Support programmes available in other regions:
If you or anyone in your community needs support in gaining employment in Aotearoa New Zealand, get in touch with the HOST team:
Photos used with permission from ChangeMakers Resettlement Forum's Driving for Inclusion Programme.
Comments