Migrant Expo goes Nationwide

By Andy Lee

Into the sixth expo in Hamilton on 2nd September this year and with four previous shows in Auckland plus one in Christchurch, the Migrant Expo is now firmly established as the only major settlement show of its kind in New Zealand.

The composition of local visitors was about the same as in previous years, mainly new and settled migrants, refugees, international students and homestay families.

A new sector that is fast developing in the Auckland show is the Ethnic Marketplace - featuring start-up companies run by migrants. The show proved to be a great launch pad for products ranging from interactive cookbooks, health products and financial services to mention a few.

Instead of a conference, this year the organisers featured a lively Employment Forum. The topic was? New Zealand is experiencing acute skills shortages in the workplace, but why are migrants, who are already here, not being employed?

A panel of about 12 speakers comprising employers, recruitment agencies, service providers and two Members of Parliament, Pansy Wong and Ashraf Choudhary fielded questions from the audience. The forum is going to be a regular feature at the show.

The Department of Labour conducted a workshop on Living in New Zealand for new migrants at the Christchurch show, which will be repeated in Hamilton. The number of community groups participating in all the shows is also steadily increasing. I was particularly impressed with the Korean Society's stand.

As a Christchurch visitor commented, the Migrant Expo is like an instant helpline - very informative.