Becoming a Registered Diversional Therapist has been a huge journey for Hafswa Hemed. Now she not only holds a new qualification, but new confidence in herself as well. 

For Hafswa Hemed, studying has not only taught her much about her job, it’s taught her a lot about herself as well.

The Activities Co-ordinator at Iona Peacehaven Village has recently become a Registered Diversional Therapist.

If you’d asked her several years ago if she ever envisaged that, you would have received a quick and resounding no.

“I was never good with study at all. I would try my best, but I was not good,” she said.

With support from Peacehaven and PSS management, Hafswa started studying through CareerForce. At first in a classroom situation, she panicked. She was shaking, her heart beating fast – she did not think she could do it and was prepared to stop then and there. But with support and encouragement from management, she carried on.

As the course progressed, so did she.

“I started to think I can do this. Then, when I finished with my certificate, I wanted to take on the next level. When Julia Russell (Director Enliven) suggested I study to become a Registered Diversional Therapist, I knew I could do it,” she said.
“I love working with the residents in activities. There is such a great connection, it touches my heart – it’s amazing.”

Hafswa came to New Zealand nine years ago from Kenya. With three children, aged 20, 8 and 6, and a full time job, studying has been tough, but it has been worth it.

She now not only boasts new qualifications (she is currently studying towards the Senior Support Worker (Level 4) qualification, but a new found confidence in herself.