A recent Inspiring the Future event hosted by Ko Taku Reo – Deaf Education New Zealand allowed senior students the opportunity to connect with Deaf role models to explore future pathways, discover new interests and build confidence about what comes next.
Ko Taku Reo adapted the Inspiring the Future Guess My Job format to create an event tailored to the unique needs of Deaf students. The event featured short career-journey presentations with storytelling and visuals, followed by small-group conversations where students could ask questions and learn about the role models’ career paths.
Role models from Pukeko Construction Ltd, Merge NZ, Eastern Suburbs Panel & Paint and other industries talked with the students about challenges they had overcome, opportunities they had embraced and lessons learned along the way.
Their stories reinforced powerful messages for students: career journeys are rarely straightforward; every experience contributes to future success; and Deaf people bring valuable strengths and perspectives to workplaces and communities.
Career stories that connected
Through conversations with Deaf role models, students gained insights that extended well beyond specific jobs or industries. Hearing first-hand career stories helped students understand that career pathways are rarely straight lines and that every experience, challenge and opportunity contributes to our future selves.
The role models also highlighted the value of Deaf Gain – showing how Deaf people bring unique strengths, perspectives and ways of thinking that enrich workplaces, communities and society.
Natasha Ambani, Careers & Transition Lead with Ko Taku Reo, said the event left a lasting impact. "The students were super engaged; the role models were inspirational – it was amazing to see hands in the air and conversation flowing. As a result of the event, two work placements were also arranged."
Watch highlights from Ko Taku Reo’s Inspiring the Future event on Facebook.
Ko Taku Reo plans to hold another Inspiring the Future event for enrolled school students and Deaf Youth Hui students in September.
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