From barriers to breakthroughs: a fresh approach to employment
Turning connections into careers — Logan helps ŌCHT tenants step into their future.
At first glance, it might look like a job search. But behind every CV is something far more powerful: a story of resilience, transformation and possibility.
That’s where Logan comes in. As ŌCHT’s employment coach, he helps tenants craft not just CVs, but compelling narratives of who they are and who they’re becoming.
Over the past month, three ŌCHT tenants have stepped into new roles — one as a truck driver, another training as a bus driver and a third working as a welder. Each has faced their own barriers: grief, ageism, mental health challenges, housing instability. And yet, through a process built on connection, coaching and courage, they’re now back in the workforce — not just with a job, but with a renewed sense of identity.
This isn’t one-size-fits-all employment support. It’s a bespoke approach grounded in innovation, using storytelling, evidence and digital tools to show not just what someone has done, but the value they bring and the potential they hold.
Employment, reimagined
It all starts with an employment plan — not just goals, but conversations. A 19-question process invites tenants to reflect on their motivation, strengths and challenges. From there, Logan helps them refine three personal goals, beginning with employment readiness: a tailored CV and cover letter, search skills and clarity about the kinds of roles they’re aiming for.
This is where innovation meets heart. AI tools help draft cover letters, but it's Logan’s ear for a good story, and his ability to personalise with honesty, that makes them sing. Just one or two ‘gems’ from someone’s lived experience can turn a personal statement and cover letter into something unforgettable.
“He hasn’t missed a day in 15 months and cycles from Sydenham to Christchurch Airport every day.”
“Straight-up honest guy who gives it everything.”
“They have three glowing references and a real shot at stability — proof that the past doesn’t define your future.”
These are the details that resonate with recruiters — honest, grounded, human.
The power of personalisation
Logan helps tenants reframe their past, not hiding struggles but highlighting growth. He’ll often include a written reference and suggest lines in the cover letter like:
“I’m extremely proud of the two references I’ve included.”
“This is who I was. This is who I am now.”
A clean, modern CV (often with a photo and a personal bi-line like “reliable, hard worker with a powerhouse ethic”) is paired with a deeply personal statement. Something that makes a recruiter stop and think: I’d like to meet this person.
Prospecting with purpose
Beyond the documents, Logan encourages direct prospecting — walking into businesses, having conversations, owning the courage it takes to ask for an opportunity. It’s not easy. Twenty conversations might result in nineteen rejections. But it only takes one.
Sometimes that one turns into three days’ work experience. Enough to build confidence, test the waters and prove reliability. Often, it leads to more.
Through employer cultivation, Logan sends stories — short, real, honest — to help employers see the person behind the CV. In many cases, it taps into something deeply Kiwi: the egalitarian idea that everyone deserves a fair go.
Real jobs, real change
One ŌCHT tenant has faced significant barriers but now drives trucks for a small family-run logistics company. They have embraced the role with determination, and their performance has been outstanding.
Another tenant, who has faced grief and mental health challenges, is training as a bus driver for a tour company. Motivated and communicating well, they’re working towards their Class 5 truck licence and have a busy, paid summer ahead.
A self-taught welder who experienced homelessness and hit rock bottom now works full-time in the local automotive industry. They have the opportunity to work long hours if they choose and are thriving in their role.
Each story is unique, yet they’re all linked by Logan’s personalised, people-centred approach. At its core is a genuine respect for each individual’s journey. As Logan says:
“I’m truly inspired by my people and their journeys.”
Building belief
For many tenants, just seeing a CV that looks sharp, clean and modern, built in Canva with thought and care, is a moment of transformation. It sends a simple message: You matter. The process builds confidence, pride and momentum.
While this approach is still gaining ground, its power is clear. When Logan’s care and conviction meet the courage of those he supports, something vital begins to take shape.
As these stories spread — through employers, communities and tenants themselves — they carry a message that resonates deeply:
“If they can do it, maybe I can too.”
This is the true heart of Logan’s work. It's not about quick fixes or flashy tools, but about an unwavering belief in people's worth, resilience and future, with stories that honour the past, celebrate growth and open doors to new beginnings.
