Story of Melenaite
Tongan carpentry student Melenaite gained hands-on training through a partnership between Habitat for Humanity New Zealand and the Tonga Institute of Science and Technology.
“Two major things I learn from the work here. One is that I am able to share the skills I am attaining in the workplace in building shelters and taking into account that building involves ensuring that the environment is healthy and safe.” Watch a brief video of her interview.
Vocational training is an important outcome in Habitat’s ongoing work in the Pacific. Skilled youth and local people have many long-term positive benefits for housing and resilience in communities.
“For me as a girl it also encourages girls who would want to cross over to this field. Nothing is impossible for women when you have the will power, it’s about hard work and commitment.”
