World Refugee Day: Mumtaz¡¯s story

20/06/24

To mark World Refugee Day today, we’re shining the spotlight on Afghan student Mumtaz Novrozi who was forced to flee his war-torn country two years ago.

During that time, he has settled into a new life in New Zealand, completed an English language skills course for migrants and refugees at MIT, and now has his sights set on becoming an electrical apprentice.

He loves going to the gym, playing soccer, and being in New Zealand.

Mumtaz Novrozi fled his home in Bamyan, Afghanistan, in 2022 as part of the Afghanistan evacuation programme, along with his parents, two sisters and younger brother.

He had just finished high school and was forced to say goodbye to friends, teachers, relatives, pets – and his home in one of the oldest cities in Central and South Asia.

On arrival in New Zealand, the family was under the care of Immigration New Zealand until they were provided with accommodation in South Auckland.

Twenty-one-year-old Mumtaz realised he needed to learn English if he wanted to make his way in New Zealand, and found out about MIT’s English language skills courses through an online search.

He completed two 16-week NZQA courses, and is now fluent in English, complete with a New Zealand accent and good grasp of Kiwi slang! He’s a regular at the City Fitness gym in Mt Wellington, and loves playing soccer.

He has also recently completed the Level 3 Certificate in Electrical Engineering and hopes to find a job as an electrical apprentice.

Mumtaz has spoken with other English language students about his learning journey, and his dedication and success is an inspiration to many others.

He says coming to New Zealand as a refugee has changed his life forever, and he’s eternally grateful for the opportunities he’s been given.

“People here are very friendly and respectful,” he says. “I love the multi-culturalism of New Zealand – everyone can be themselves and can achieve what they want. You have fantastic facilities here and people want you to succeed.

“We’re so lucky to be here.”

His sister Qudsia is currently completing the NZ Certificate in English Language (Level 4) course at MIT.