A profound sense of fulfilment

Tauranga-based ConneXu Community Facilitator Arra De Ru says her job gives her a profound sense of fulfilment and she feels deeply connected to her job in her heart.

Growing up in Tangub City on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines, Arra de Ru vividly remembers her mother’s sacrifices while working abroad.

“She is a very smart woman who was quickly promoted to Chief Nurse at the hospital. She worked there for 20 years and spent an additional six years as a military nurse. Her sacrifices provided us with opportunities.”

Arra moved to the United Arab Emirates for work and was introduced to her future husband, originally from Holland but living in New Zealand at the time.

“I visited him for a holiday in New Zealand, and one thing led to another, so I left Dubai and moved here,” she explains.

The couple had two daughters, now aged 11 and 13. As a young mum, Arra immersed herself in opportunities to meet new people, such as joining mothers’ groups, which helped her adjust and understand the ‘kiwi’ culture.

“At first, I struggled to understand the Kiwi accent,” she laughs.

“I was confused by the term 'bring your own plate' and didn’t realise it meant to bring a dish of food to share!”

Once her youngest daughter started school, Arra worked casually at an Early Childhood Centre before being offered a permanent position. However, the lack of flexibility in her job became challenging when her eldest daughter required major surgery and faced a long recovery.

“There was so much going on, and I needed to be available for her appointments and physical therapy, so I needed something more flexible for work,” Arra says.

In July 2024, Arra got a job at ConneXu, and she feels the flexibility has greatly improved her ability to balance her family commitments.

“Although I work 12-hour shifts, I have scheduled days off, allowing me to arrange my daughter’s appointments around those days. It’s a busy time for my family, so I appreciate being able to be there as a mother, wife, and daughter-in-law while also working.” 

As a Community Facilitator, Arra supports four partners with disabilities in one house.

“The weekdays can be quite busy, as these individuals need assistance with personal care, changing dressings, administering medication, preparing meals, and attending appointments,” she explains.

“On weekends, there are no appointments, so we enjoy getting everyone out of the house, going for walks, or taking trips in the van to enjoy the outdoors.”

Arra was recently recognised as a ‘Rising Star’ at the ConneXu 2024 Values Awards. She says she feels privileged to work at ConneXu.

“It has deepened my understanding of the lives of our partners with disabilities and provided me with a profound sense of fulfilment. This experience has highlighted the importance of each individual and the joy our partners bring, which is incredibly rewarding. I feel honoured to contribute to their well-being.”

Having two nephews with autism allows Arra to relate deeply to the challenges faced by families on similar journeys. Arra’s sister, the twins’ mother, made the heart-wrenching decision to work abroad to provide for their treatment and needs, reminding Arra of the sacrifices many families make for their loved ones.

“When I work with our partners, I often think of my sister and her struggles, which fuels my dedication to our mission at ConneXu,” she says.

At ConneXu, Arra helps create a supportive environment where partners can thrive and lead happy, fulfilling lives.

"I am grateful to be part of such a compassionate team, and I look forward to continuing to create meaningful experiences and cherished memories with our partners. Thank you to the ConneXu team, for allowing me to be part of this important work."

Arra dreams that one day, her family will be reunited to live in New Zealand, and she hopes to have the opportunity to care for them.

“Reflecting on the sacrifices made by my mother and sister connects me deeply to the families of our disabled partners and the challenges they face,” she shares.

“I pray that one day my family can come to New Zealand. In the meantime, I find fulfilment in helping and supporting others. This job has resonated with me on a deep emotional level.”