This is a blog to highlight the wonderful adventures that my family, Jericho, Jeremy and I (Fawn Pettifer) have started. This all started with a dream that has flowered into a lifetime opportunity that I am still trying to realize. I set my sights on the wonderful Islands of New Zealand, mostly because I wanted to familiarize myself with Maori culture as they have had very similar experiences to the First Nations of Canada. I yearn to experience their way of life and learn the many different facets of their existence in New Zealand. I am captivated with their history and surroundings that have made them unique and distinct. In New Zealand, English is the dominant language, the atmosphere, people and scenery are amazing and websites were provided to help make the move into New Zealand possible.
It has taken me a year to successfully plan and integrate all that would be needed to live in New Zealand for a period of possibly three years. Much was needed to be done; Save money by working three jobs, Teacher Qualifications evaluated, Application to Teacher's Council, Passport Applications, Travel Permission Letter formalized, International Driver's Permit Papers, Accommodation Set-up, Research (New Zealand governance, curricullum, laws, Maori culture), etc. With each step, I drew closer to my dream and now I am here (in New Zealand!!).
I have already had experience teaching in a remote community on the James Bay Coast called Fort Albany, First Nation. Those experiences are ones that have not only prepared me for the adventure I have embraced but have also enabled me to become the person I need to be. I will forever value the relationships fostered, the land discovered and the culture that was realized. I am thankful to those that were willing to share their stories, homes and experiences. To the students, you will never know how much you have changed my life. I have never been so enlightened by so many faces. You have all given me a teaching that I will forever embrace. These experiences I will hold sacred.
My New Zealand adventure is an unique experience because I come from a very humble background. I am a First Nation woman from Wahnapitae First Nation, single mother of two beautiful boys, Jericho and Jeremy, very educated and determined to fulfill my dreams and aspirations (not just for me but also my boys). I have experienced the trauma that comes from social injustices, the biases that come from being a recipient of social welfare systems and the healing that comes from determination and will power.
Follow along as we will share our experiences with you. Enjoy.
