I would like to start this column by telling you about two exciting new developments at Career Services. One is a website section devoted specifically to helping our Pasifika people make decisions about their futures and career options, the other, a revamp of this column that we hope will offer inspiration, education and encouragement.
We have just launched a Pasifika section, packed with information to help you, your family and your friends make decisions about work and learning. The section is organised into four areas: 
1 Real life stories
This content includes real life stories from our people talking about their career path, the decisions they made and the challenges they faced along the way.
2 Study support and scholarships
For those of you looking to enter tertiary study, this area has lots of advice and support, including scholarship information, a step-by-step guide to applying for a scholarships and information on general student support services, eg childcare, financial assistance, healthcare etc
3 Workshops and services for Pasifika
This content features personal stories of Career Services’ highly skilled and committed Pasifika staff, so you can get to know them a little and get a sense of how they can help you. We also have information on how Career Services works with Pasifika clients, in particular school, family, community groups, as well as individuals.
4 Resources and links
This area contains information on resources and activities specifically for you, along with links to other useful sources of advice, tips and stories.
Please take the opportunity to check out this new section at www.careers.govt.nz/pasifika.
The second exciting development here at Career Services is the decision to refresh this column in the New Year. I think it’s been really important during this difficult, recession-dominated year to equip you with the tools and information to help you deal effectively with this ever-changing job environment.
We’ve discussed the need for an effective CV, a strong accompanying cover letter, some strong job search networking, a wellm prepared job action plan and information to help you feel confident and comfortable in an interview.
The Career Services website contains a wealth of information and examples on all of these areas and I would encourage you to look them over at www.careers.govt.nz
During 2010 this column will bring you stories of some of the many talented and successful Pasifika people that we share our lives with. These stories will feature people at various stages of their career journey, identify positive career decisions and talk through some of the difficulties they’ve had to overcome to get to where they are.
These people are no different from the rest of us, but I’m hoping their stories of courage, hard work, sacrifice and pursuit of a dream will inspire and encourage us all to examine the options and opportunities before us.
There’s no denying 2009 was a tough year. But with the support of family, friends, church and community there is nothing we cannot endure. With that in mind I wish you all very best for 2010.