From beneficiary to business owner: Levi s story
6 Feb, 2021 08:00 PM
4 minutes to read
Levi Menzies has started his own business after spending years on the sickness benefit. Photo / George Novak There were times I d go in there bawling my eyes out and say I can t accomplish this, it s too hard. Those are the words Levi Menzies uses to describe his journey off the sickness benefit and into work - with the help of the Ministry for Social Development.
The 27-year-old, who said he once suffered from low self-esteem and confidence, is now the boss of his own security company, in Tauranga - and he calls the shots.
Beneficiary finds plum job in the trades
6 Feb, 2021 08:00 PM
4 minutes to read
Daisylee Rogers has taken up a plumber, gas fitter and drain layer apprenticeship. Photo / Andrew Warner
Daisylee Rogers has taken up a plumber, gas fitter and drain layer apprenticeship. Photo / Andrew Warner
Daisylee Rogers apprenticeship journey began with a letter to a potential employer after she was made redundant because of Covid. The jobless former draftsperson for the building industry wrote to BOP Plumbing & Gas Ltd in Rotorua last year- and more than six months later she was given the opportunity to prove herself. I asked if they could take me on to do labouring or if they were looking for an apprentice anytime soon. I was so keen.