“They changed my life.” Farzaneh’s story

Landing a new job at IKEA has made a world of difference for Farzaneh.

The former teacher arrived from Iran with years of experience. Yet, even with reskilling and a strong commitment to work, Farzaneh found it difficult to secure employment. Now, with the right support, the Brisbane job seeker has found hope, happiness and a new future.

Leaving a career in Iran for a new beginning

Farzaneh was keen to continue teaching after arriving in Australia and undertook teacher aide training to help her secure local work. However, finding a vocational placement proved challenging for the passionate educator.

Undeterred, Farzaneh completed two further training courses in housekeeping and retail. Yet the mature age job seeker hit further roadblocks while job hunting; this time at the interview stage.

“I didn’t know what to say in interviews,” Farzaneh said.

“I really wanted to work, but I had no chance on my own.”  


Farzaneh with Grace from our Nundah team.

A door opens

Once Farzaneh was connected to MatchWorks, life started to take a positive new direction. Employment Consultant, Ashika Nair and the team helped Farzaneh:

  • Find a retail job opportunity at a local IKEA store.
  • Update her resume and provided digital support to complete the online application.
  • Build her confidence to use Zoom technology in preparation for the virtual interview. 
  • Develop her communication skills so she felt well prepared to answer interview questions.

Ashika said Farzaneh was thrilled and grateful when she spoke to her about the job opportunity.

“Despite her previous setbacks, she stayed positive and hopeful during the hiring process with IKEA and was quick to ask for help if she felt she needed it,” Ashika said.

“These attributes resulted in IKEA offering employment to Farzaneh, which she happily accepted. She is so happy and confident now.”

Finding hope and a new life

Farzaneh shared her immense gratitude for the support she received from Ashika, Renee, Grace, Nikita and the Nundah team. 

“This job has helped me so much – financially, socially and emotionally,” Farzaneh said.

“I’m not a young lady and was feeling unhappy and depressed. Now, I’m not alone. I feel I belong to Australia and they gave me hope in my life,” she said.

“I am so lucky I found these people – they changed my life.”

Find out more about our employment services for job seekers and businesses, or call 1300 13 23 63 to chat to your local team.