For former refugees, migrants, women and families from Muslim and other backgrounds, the main barrier to participation in a new society is language.
80% of new arrival refugee women speak minimal or no English, and learning the language can take 5+ years in full-time classes. The Women’s Empowerment Programme delivers services in mother tongue languages enabling immediate access to participation.
Additionally, barriers such as transport and experiences of family violence contribute to increased social isolation that makes it more difficult to access employment, education, healthcare, and participate fully in the community. Umma Trust’s Women Empowerment Programme takes a holistic approach to addressing these barriers, providing culturally responsive support that helps women and families build confidence, skills and independence.
A key part of the programme is Umma Trust’s Driving Programme, which provides driver training and theory classes in mother-tongue languages including Somali, Tigrinya, Arabic, Dari, Pashto and Spanish. Participants can access interpreters and practical support as they progress from their learner licence through to a full licence, with VTNZ also operating four on-site testing stations. Umma Trust’s Driving School recorded a 96% pass rate for learner licences, with restricted and full licence pass rates over 60% - with the national rate being 50%. Alongside driving support, the Afghan Women and Children Community Development Programme offers weekly literacy, sewing, driving theory and family violence prevention workshops, while activities for children support mothertongue language, cultural identity and community connection. Together, these Tāmaki Makaurau-based programmes create pathways for women and families to build skills, confidence and greater independence.
