Impact Stories
From Struggle to Stability: The Story of Peter Chan
Peter Chan, originally from South Sudan, arrived in New Zealand under the Refugee Quota Programme in 2005. Since 2007, he
January 13, 2024
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Comprehensive Settlement Support Services for Immigrant Communities in Aotearoa New Zealand
A not-for-profit organisation led by immigrants for immigrants, dedicated to empowering our communities across New Zealand.
We collaborate closely with vulnerable immigrant groups who have experienced forced migration, providing the support needed for successful settlement and meaningful integration in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We collaborate closely with vulnerable immigrant groups who have experienced forced migration, providing the support needed for successful settlement and meaningful integration in Aotearoa New Zealand.
27 Member Organisations
20+ Communities Represented
Community-Led Umbrella Organisation
Working Across Aotearoa New Zealand
Ko Wai Mātou
Who ARCC is
We are a grassroots, not-for-profit umbrella organisation, dedicated to representing the voices of ethnic immigrants who have faced forced migration. Our community-driven initiative is led by individuals with lived experiences, ensuring that we effectively advocate for immigrants within our communities.
As an immigrant-led organisation, we operate at local, regional, and national levels, providing interpreted settlement support services. Our coalition consists of 27-member organisations representing 20 different nationalities and ethnic backgrounds. We strive to promote unity among immigrants and support a peaceful settlement process. Additionally, we work to educate and reduce disinformation, helping to prevent issues of false identity and self-confusion within our communities.
Ko Wai Mātou
What We Do
We provide integrated settlement support services to immigrant families and communities responding to real needs through consultation and community-led initiatives.
Programmes and Initiatives
Delivering community-led programmes that create inclusive spaces for connection, leadership, network and participation.
Programmes and Initiatives
Delivering community-led programmes that create inclusive spaces for connection, leadership, network and participation.
Learn More
Community Support Services (CSS)
Providing holistic, practical support to individuals and families as they navigate their complex settlement systems, access services, and overcome challenges.
Community Support Services (CSS)
Providing holistic, practical support to individuals and families as they navigate their complex settlement systems, access services, and overcome challenges.
Learn More
Advocacy for Change
Working to ensure resettlement systems are fair, coordinated, and culturally responsive, while strengthening public understanding and compassion.
Advocacy for Change
Working to ensure resettlement systems are fair, coordinated, and culturally responsive, while strengthening public understanding and compassion.
Learn More
Research and Community Consultation
Using participatory action research approaches grounded in lived experience to identify gaps and develop practical, solution-focused responses.
Research and Community Consultation
Using participatory action research approaches grounded in lived experience to identify gaps and develop practical, solution-focused responses.
Learn More
Ā mātou tikanga
How We Do It
Our work is guided by ARCC’s REAL pillars:
Research
Community-led research that reflects lived experience and informs solutions
Education
Building knowledge, skills, and understanding through workshops, training, and community engagement
Advocacy
Amplifying community voices and addressing systemic challenges within the resettlement sector
Leadership
Strengthening leadership capacity within communities to support long-term growth and participation
Ā Mātou Hōtaka
Our Programmes
Our programmes create safe environments and inclusive spaces where communities can connect, network, build confidence, and support one another.
Member Leadership Network (MLN)
Te Rōpū Ārahi Mema (MLN)
A network forum that brings together representatives and leaders from organisations with diverse ethnic backgrounds to strengthen leadership, network and collaboration.
Women Leadership Network (WLN)
Te Rōpū Ārahi Wahine (WLN)
A forum that bring devise women together to voice their concern and, lead, share knowledge, and build meaningful connections while addressing their families’ and women’s issues.
Youth United Voice
(YUV)
Te Reo Rangatahi Tūhono (YUV)
A forum to empower youth and young people to develop their personal leadership, networking, communication skills, and active participation in their families and communities.
Senior Social Hub
(SSH)
Te Puna Pāpori mō ngā Kaumātua (SSH)
A network designed to prevent isolation and provide a welcoming space for seniors to connect, share their wisdom and experiences and offer guidance to the young generation and contribute to community life.
Ā Mātou Pākihi
Current Projects
Leadership Coaching Programme (LCP)
Te Hōtaka Whakaako Kaiārahi
We aim to empower individuals, community leaders, and representatives by providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster habits of self-discipline, personal growth, and professional development within the context of New Zealand leadership.
Learning Communities Hub
Hub o ngā Hapori Ako
The Learning Community Hub is an educational initiative designed to engage parents and their school-aged children within the New Zealand education system. Its primary goal is to empower parents with the knowledge and confidence necessary to effectively support their children’s educational journey.
Digital Literacy Class
Akomanga Mātau Matihiko
The Digital Literacy Class is a professional educational program designed to equip immigrants in New Zealand with essential hands-on training and practical skills to effectively meet their everyday digital needs.
Ā Mātou Pākihi
Our Previous Projects
Our projects are developed in response to the lived experiences and priorities of resettled immigrant communities, creating practical solutions to real challenges.
Bridging The Gap (BTG)
Te Hononga i ngā Arawhata
A participatory action research project identifying gaps in the resettlement, settlement and integration process and developing solution-focused improvements.
Iti Rearea Collective (IRC)
Te Rōpū Iti Rearea
Supporting resettled immigrants to build sustainable small businesses, achieve financial independence, and strengthen social inclusion and equity.
Pukapuka Hou
New Resident Magazine
Our magazine shares stories, advice, and resources for new residents in Aotearoa. It’s designed to help people feel informed, supported, and connected to their community from day one.
Resett TV Kōrero
Resett TV Talk
Resett TV Talk is ARCC’s channel dedicated to sharing stories, experiences, and insights related to forced migration. This platform provides valuable information, helping people understand the diverse aspects of the journeys faced by forced migrants. It highlights both the successes and challenges encountered when starting anew in Aotearoa New Zealand.
New videos are released on Resett TV Talk once a month, so be sure to visit our YouTube page to catch them all!
Ā Mātou Hui
Our Events
Our events unite a variety of ethnic immigrant communities, along with supporters and friends, to foster connections, celebrate our diversity, collaborate, and network. Driven by cultural values, our gatherings with the resettlement sector aim to create inclusive spaces that strengthen relationships, promote racial unity, and support a peaceful settlement process for our immigrant community in Aotearoa New Zealand. We prioritise a sense of belonging and well-being for all as we navigate our new home together.
- Annual General Meeting (AGM)
- Tākaro Whutupōro ARCC (Previous)
- World Refugee Day (WRD)
- Summer Block Party (SBP)
- Ethnic Youth Emerging Leaders Breakfast
- Academic Awards Evening
- Auckland Resettlement Sector Summit
- ARCC Soccer Tournaments
Ō Mātou Tāngata
Our People
The family and community are at the heart of ARCC DNA. Our governing board, management team, and volunteers work together to deliver services guided by lived experience, care, and commitment.
Mike Moore
Board Chairperson
Krishna Sharma
Board Member
Eslam Gadala
Board Member
Omer Adam
Governing Board Member
Jingjing Zhang-Victoria
Governing Board Treasurer
Abann Kamyay Ajak Yor
Chief Executive Officer
Hnin Pwint Soe
Operations Manager
Faisal Farghaly
Community Support Worker
Selvi Richard
Community Service Coordinator
Farhana Bhamjee
Partnerships Lead
Ā mātou hītori
Our History
Over the years, ARCC has grown into a trusted community organisation supporting former refugees and new residents as they build their lives in Aotearoa New Zealand. Through a range of programmes and services, we work alongside individuals and families to foster inclusion, independence, and belonging.
Ā mātou mema
Our Members
ARCC brings together diverse immigrant communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. Explore our members and learn how you or your community can get involved.
Ngā Kōrero Pānga
Our Impact
Our work is grounded in lived experience and real outcomes for communities.
“I joined the Women Leadership Network programme, and it became a turning point in my life. I was able to build connections, gain confidence, and feel a sense of belonging. When I faced housing challenges, ARCC supported me through the process and helped resolve my situation without additional costs.”
“ARCC supported me throughout my immigration process, helping me prepare documents and communicate with Immigration New Zealand. Thanks to their guidance, my family was able to receive residence and reunite in New Zealand.”
Tautoko Mai
Get involved with ARCC
Support, connect, collaborate or partner with us to strengthen settlement and integration of resettled immigrant communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.
