Hamilton Connect Hui

Wednesday 8th April 10.30-12.00pm

Understanding and Supporting Diversity in Volunteering

Aotearoa New Zealand’s population is changing. By 2043, around 33% of people are expected to identify with Asian ethnicities, alongside growing cultural diversity across our communities. These shifts have important implications for how we design and support volunteer programmes.

Hamilton is already seeing this change, with more people from migrant and refugee backgrounds, as well as an increasing international student population – around 700 students are expected at the University of Waikato this year alone. Many are keen to volunteer as a way to connect, gain experience, and contribute to their new community.

At this hui, we will be joined by Leidy Montes, Manager – Pathways to Employment at New Zealand Red Cross, who will share her lived experience as a former refugee and the support organisations can offer to make volunteering accessible. We will also hear from an international student about their perspective on volunteering in Aotearoa.

This is a chance to learn, share, and connect with others in the volunteering sector, understand the challenges faced by refugees, migrants, and international students, and explore practical ways to create inclusive, culturally responsive volunteer opportunities.

Location: Rototuna Library