INTRODUCING I'M IN
It's an honour to introduce the I'm In Programme on behalf of our dedicated team. Our mission is clear: to guide, nurture, and empower vulnerable individuals throughout New Zealand to find meaning and purpose through sustainable employment.
The heart of I'm In lies in the stories of our participants. Picture a former gang leader, a solo dad of three finding a renewed passion for work and breaking down employment barriers, or a refugee navigating language challenges in our recruitment processes.
A 23-year-old with 13 criminal convictions determined to turn his life around and secured work at Anchor Milk. And, a 21-year-old young lady diagnosed with ADHD and autism did not let her diagnosis define her as she entered a role as a marketing assistant.
These narratives represent just a glimpse into the lives of over 100 individuals enrolled in the I'm In pilot. It's not just about work readiness, it's about transforming lives. We not only prepare participants for the workforce but actively connect job seekers to support services to help overcome barriers that make employment unattainable.
I’m In works directly with employers too, helping them discover job-ready talent, eager to take on new challenges.
The success of the I'm In Programme is a shared victory. We extend our deepest gratitude to the families who believe in their children's potential, the tireless efforts of the employees at the Ministry of Social Development, employers who take calculated risk and the countless unsung heroes who contribute to our mission.
As we reflect on our achievements, we recognise that our journey has only just begun. We invite you to join us. Let's continue expanding our impact, creating bridges between job seekers and employers, and making a positive difference in the lives of those who need it most.
I'm In—Are you?
Kia Kaha,
Thomas Maharaj
Founder - I’m In
Guide, nurture, and empower vulnerable individuals throughout New Zealand to find meaning and purpose through sustainable employment.
FOR JOBSEEKER
BY JOBSEEKER
I'm Catherine, a member of the fantastic I'm In team! I found myself navigating in and out of benefits, often struggling to land a job that truly resonated with me. But everything changed when I joined the I'm In programme. It was the first time I felt genuinely heard and supported in my quest to find fulfilling work. Before securing employment I was unsuccessful at three different interviews.
After working with I’m In for 90 days through their pre-employment programme they decided to take a chance on me.
What’s truly remarkable about I’m In, is the level of empathy and understanding within the team. Knowing that each person had their own unique journey of being a job seeker made me feel more at ease sharing my own story.
Their commitment to hiring from the programme itself is a testament to their belief in the programme’s effectiveness and integrity. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to be part of this team, and I'm thrilled about the opportunity to pay it forward and assist others just as the team did for me. I now spend my days at the Ministry Social Development sites across Wellington supporting others into sustainable employment.
Plus, the support I've received has been beyond amazing - NZQA accredited sales training, completing a mental health first aid certificate and I'm now on my way to getting my driver's licence!
Exciting times ahead, and I can't wait to contribute more as I continue to make a difference in the lives of others.