Our Stories

National Volunteer Week spotlight – Fatima

19 June 2026

Staff Stories

Volunteers

A Pasifika woman seated on an orange armchair in an indoor setting holding a white cane with a Tongan tapa on the wall behind her. She is wearing a a red dress with Tongan design on it and holding a white cane.

Image description: Fatima looks happy as she relaxes in an orange armchair holding her white cane with a Tongan tapa on the wall behind her.

Bringing people together through volunteering

Born in Tonga and living with Retinitis Pigmentosa, Fatima came to New Zealand in her early twenties seeking help for her deteriorating vision. What she found was a community. Since then, she has dedicated much of her life to supporting others.

In this video interview, Fatima reflects on her experiences as both a Blind Low Vision NZ staff member and volunteer. She shares how the Pacific Support Group grew from a desire to bring people together, reduce isolation, and create a space where members could learn from one another, share their stories, and build lasting friendships.

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