I once received an award from President Obama, but the job that changed my life the most involved walking alongside people at their lowest.
I started my career in security in my early 20s, working at the US Consulate General in Auckland working in a high-risk security role not long after 9/11. I stayed in that field for 13 years, receiving specialized training from US Marines and Diplomats sent from Washington to train me. I worked my way up quickly into a leadership role and loved the responsibility and the people.
After reaching the top, I chose to leave. I wanted more freedom and more connection with everyday people. I became a delivery agent for NZ Post, and it turned out to be one of my favourite jobs. Being outside, setting my own pace and having people smile, wave and stop for a chat reminded me how powerful simple human connection can be.
That led me to an after-hours role with Ka Puta Ka Ora Emerge Aotearoa, supporting people experiencing homelessness. From there I moved into navigation, tenancy management and social housing. I am now the Senior Tenancy Manager, supporting people, properties and teams while keeping dignity and humanity at the centre of the work.
The other day I watched the rubbish trucks go past and said, wow, that must be a great job too. My husband looked at me and said, do not even think about it.
-Rona Clark, Senior Tenancy Manager (Northern Region).
