Community Navigator – Victory Community Centre

About This Role

The Community Navigator role is based at Victory Community Centre and is co-governed by Multicultural Nelson Tasman, English Language Partners, and Victory Community Centre.

The Community Navigator walks alongside migrants and former refugees, offering guidance, advocacy, and connection. Drawing on cultural insight and lived experience, this role breaks down barriers and helps newcomers thrive in Aotearoa New Zealand.

What the Community Navigator Does

Settlement Support – Assisting individuals and families with everything from accessing essential services to understanding local systems in Nelson and Richmond.

Connection & Belonging – Linking people with activities, cultural groups, and networks to build friendships and strengthen social ties.

Advocacy & Guidance – Helping clients navigate health, education, housing, and employment services, and advocating for their needs. Supporting newcomers through challenges with WINZ, IRD, legal systems, and more.

Community Bridge – Creating connection, safety, and trust while fostering understanding between newcomers and the wider community.

Get in Touch

If you're a newcomer to Nelson Tasman needing settlement support, or would like to learn more about how the Community Navigator can help you, please contact us.

Meet Norma

Norma comes from Venezuela and has made Nelson her home with her husband and four children. She is dedicated to helping newcomers settle, linking them to activities, services, and opportunities that make the transition to life in Aotearoa easier and more welcoming.

In Norma's Words

"I was born in the magical city of Mérida, nestled in the Venezuelan Andes, and since 2008 I've been blessed to call Aotearoa New Zealand my home. I'm also the proud mum of four wonderful children who keep my heart full and my spirit strong.

My work is my passion: I serve as a Community Navigator in the Nelson Tasman region, supporting former refugees and migrants as they begin a new chapter of life here. Every journey is unique, and I walk alongside people as they find their way through challenges with housing, education, employment, health, legal systems, WINZ and IRD, and more.

But for me, this mahi goes far beyond practical support. It's about creating connection, safety, and trust. It's about helping people understand the rhythms of life in New Zealand while honouring the cultures, stories, and strengths they bring with them.

My deepest purpose is empowerment—to see people not only adapt, but flourish; to see them feel at home, safe, and happy in Aotearoa."