"It's never too late to begin a new chapter"
An attorney specialising in civil law for 22 years, Ruwini enrolled in NMIT's Master of Applied Management to strengthen her leadership and management skills, with a view to establishing her own legal firm.
"I thought I should challenge myself," she says. "I wanted to start a new chapter."
With economic uncertainty in Sri Lanka and a desire to broaden her horizons, she began researching study destinations. New Zealand quickly stood out.
"Choosing Nelson was an easy decision," she says.
“While researching New Zealand, I was drawn to the South Island because of Nelson's beautiful sunshine, peaceful lifestyle, and welcoming community.”
"It reminded me of home in Sri Lanka; a place where nature, warmth, and people create a sense of belonging," she says.
Finding strength through challenge
Ruwini arrived in Nelson alone, with her husband and two daughters joining her two months later. While her daughters adapted quickly, returning to study after over twenty years in the workforce was a significant challenge for Ruwini.
"For more than two decades I worked totally in my language, Sinhala," she says. "My court procedures, drafting and consultations were all in Sinhala. Coming here and studying in English was challenging initially."
Balancing a Master's degree with part-time work, raising two children and settling into a new country required determination.
"It was not a bed of roses," she says. "But I think the obstacles strengthened my confidence. The obstacles are the foundation of my resilience."
Support that made a difference
Throughout her studies, Ruwini says the support she received from NMIT's tutors and learner support services made all the difference.
"The tutors were really helpful from the beginning," she says. "Especially with research, they showed us the way we should do things. Without their guidance, I couldn't have continued."
She also credits the NMIT Learner Success team with helping her navigate challenges, build academic writing skills, and settle into life in New Zealand.
"They helped me with writing skills, mental wellbeing and even financial difficulties. I am so grateful," Ruwini says.
“Studying at NMIT didn't only give me a qualification - I strengthened my confidence and belief in myself. Their kindness reminded me that, although I had travelled far from home, I was never truly alone.”
Building connection and belonging
Along the way, Ruwini formed a close friendship with fellow international student Vishara Egodage. The pair supported each other throughout their studies, with Vishara helping Ruwini navigate technology, while Ruwini shared driving support and advice from her own life experiences.
Another way Ruwini connected with people was through food. Passionate about cooking, she regularly prepared traditional Sri Lankan dishes from scratch to share with classmates and kaimahi (staff), often volunteering at multicultural events and bringing homemade treats to campus.
"I always think that if people do something for me, I should give back," she says. "Life is not for getting and asking. It's for giving."
International Student Success Advisor Lisa Salter says Ruwini made a lasting impression at NMIT through her generosity, determination and willingness to support others.
"Ruwini has been an inspiration to everyone around her," Lisa says. "She embraced every opportunity, supported other students, volunteered her time and shared her culture so generously. Watching her confidence grow has been incredibly rewarding, and she has become a valued part of our NMIT community."
Looking ahead with confidence
Ruwini believes that her journey at NMIT has strengthened her resilience, adaptability, confidence, and belief in herself.
"Perhaps the greatest transformation was not academic, it was personal. I discovered that every challenge carries an opportunity for growth if we are willing to embrace it," she says.
Now working as a disability support worker while continuing further study in New Zealand, Ruwini hopes to build a long-term future here with her family.
"My daughters are doing really well here, and that makes me happy because it is the result of my dedication," she says. "I want to give them the value of education because then they can stand on their own feet anywhere in the world."
"Coming to New Zealand was one of the biggest decisions I have ever made. Studying at NMIT gave me more than a qualification. It gave me confidence, lifelong friendships, unforgettable experiences, and the belief that it is never too late to begin a new chapter."
