Migrant Expo Addressing Migrant Needs

An estimated 10,000 strong crowd is expected to flock to 11th Migrant Expo and the Migrant Job Fair, a series of exhibitions and fairs for migrants, overseas students and job seekers organised by Migrant News at the Alexandra Park Function Centre Greenlane from 10-11 May 2008.

The 6th chapter of Auckland Migrant Expo will have wide ranging stalls from several governmental agencies, the NGO spectrum and job fair for job-seekers.

The event is sponsored by Auckland City Council and Western Union.

Tina Raines who hails from Philippines is the brain behind this popular programme. She says “Migrant Expo is now firmly established as a high-profile annual event for migrants and a major contributor in fast-tracking the settlement of migrants in New Zealand.”

She believes the show brings together all the resources available for job searches up skilling through training and education, immigration and settlement support.

Taruni Falconer will deliver a lecture on ‘Intercultural Dynamics’ on the opening day Saturday along with Filipino Trade Unionist Dennis Maga who will speak on ‘Exploitation of Migrant Workers’ as part of the free Employment Workshop.

‘Think Success’ is expected to motivate job seekers while the art of improving ones chance of job success will strive to delve and bring to fore the finer points for the enthusiasts.

"From Half Black to All Black" by Myan Subrayan, a South African immigrant will talk about successfully settling in New Zealand.

‘Family Affair’ will be a new addition to this year’s event featuring health, education, motherhood and slots for children and parents. Topics include Voting at the Elections, Buying a Home, Safety in your Neighbourhood, Political Parties Forum and more.

Ms. Raines notes “the launch show coincides with Mother’s Day on 11 May and Family Day on 15th May, which is promoted by the Families Commission.” There will be a play area for children as well as food, live bands and cultural performers throughout the show.

A parallel event Philippines Festival and Trade Fair will run alongside the main show purported to be the largest Filipino event of its kind in Auckland.

“A highlight of this event is the launch of the ‘Mr. & Ms Fiesta Pilipinas’ contest organised by Filipino News, the leading Filipino monthly newspaper www.pinoy.net.nz ,” remarked Ms. Raines.

"A detailed list of seminar topics, the entertainment programme and other details can be found on the Migrant Expo website www.migrantexpo.co.nz ."

Syed Akbar Kamal is producer/director for current affairs programme Darpan-The Mirror on the World Wide Web.
www.teamworkproductions.co.nz

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