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“Seize every opportunity you have to learn and experience positive things, so that you may grow in character and knowledge.”

The fight for freedom is a long and arduous struggle. It’s something that you and I can relate to on some level. We’ve had to work hard and overcome a lot of things to leave the countries we love for a better future. Some have sacrificed more than others.But imagine you flew here through what ever means, hoping you’ll be granted asylum.
Your family’s future rest on the possibility that you can be granted refugee status, only the Government locks you up because you’re a possible terrorist threat to the country.

Media frenzy begins to circulate around your case. For the next few years you’re in total isolation, deprived of your rights and privileges. Sounds like a plot in a Steven Spielberg movie doesn’t it? Well it’s not. Ahmed Zaoui lived through this.

Today, Ahmed Zaoui walks a free man. Enjoying all that New Zealand has to offer. A far cry from where he was not long ago. Since his exit from Algeria, life has not been easy for the Asylum seeker. Steadfast, humble and optimistic is what characterizes this modern day freedom fighter. Like the greats of this world, he has fought to clear his name and was successful.

Mr Zaoui sees real opportunities for all refugees in this country, especially for the youth. He is encouraged by the progress he has seen but hopes communities would take a more proactive role in helping the youth.


“The role of the family is important,” says Mr Zaoui because perceptions and attitudes are fostered in this environment.


“Seize every opportunity you have to learn and experience positive things, so that you may grow in character and knowledge.”


Ahmed Zoaui has teenagers of his own, and so this issue is close to his heart.


As new immigrants to this country they will have to go through the process of learning English, making new friends and taking part in social life.

“Their choices in friends are important, but it is something that you cannot control. We must try and get them involved in activities that would instill some of the disciplines we want in them,” explains Mr Zaoui.


Ahmed Zaoui regularly partakes in community events and youth activities; with football being one of is greatest passions.


“In Algeria I suffered a lot. There was racism and class differences and political and everything. This was only on the football ground. But when I come here, everyone is enjoying with everybody else. Somali and Indians and Arabs and kiwis and Asians all playing together.”

Personal responsibility is important explains Mr Zaoui. As individuals we cannot expect people will do the work for us and everything will automatically appear out of thin air.

A positive mindset is one way to overcome some of your difficulties. As immigrants we must work together and have everything transparent so there is no misunderstanding.

“The future looks good. But we must work on the present and learn from the past if we are to make the future prosperous.”


The question

Do you think that Ahmed Zaoui was correct in saying that, the community needs to take a more proactive role with the youth and can you give an example of such people in your community?