I belong to the Hazara ethnic minority group from Afghanistan.
Tell us about your graduate placement and your host agency.
I am working as a policy advisor in the Intelligence and Security group at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Is there a career goal you are working towards?
My career goal is to work in the public sector and to become a senior policy advisor, where I will be able to bring a positive change for our communities and society and to make sure that all policies take into account our migrants, refugees and indigenous people.
Why do you think it’s important to have a diverse Public Service?
New Zealand is a multicultural and democratic country. Therefore, all ethnic-diverse groups should be given equal rights and chances to participate in the public sector. By having more people from different communities and ethnic backgrounds, there will be more ideas, knowledge and perspectives which will lead to multiple approaches to problem-solving. Having a diverse public sector can help to reach political, social, and economical goals such as social stability, equality and innovation. In addition to that, diversity is not just about people from different backgrounds but their competencies, experience, perspectives and knowledge to improve government efficiency and effectiveness and to meet public needs.
What advice do you give to graduates considering a career in the Public Service?
My advice for those graduates who are considering a career in the Public Service is that, if you are passionate about working in the public sector and want to bring a positive change to people’s lives and to your communities, then the Public Service would be the best place to start. Working in the public sector will give you opportunities to serve your people and to develop your skills and experience. There is a lot of support and encouragement from Public Service agencies to their employees through training, workshops and programmes to advance in your profession.