People of the airport - Jawed Yousufi
Jawed is a Facility Officer at Wellington Airport who also manages our community garden on Bridge Street in Rongotai, recycling food waste from the terminal and growing food for the community.
“I’m originally from Bamiyan, Afghanistan, and I came to New Zealand in December 2021.
“I started working at Wellington Airport as a cleaner and then began working directly for the airport in 2024. My role involves helping with different tasks like looking after the bag-room to support the smooth running of the airport.
“Wellington Airport is one of the best places I have ever worked. One of the things I really appreciate is the respect everyone has for each other. There are a wonderful variety of people from different backgrounds, and everyone respects and supports each other, no matter their background, race, faith, or beliefs.
“Working in the airport community vegetable garden is one of the most enjoyable things I do. The vegetables we grow help people who really need them, and I think we can grow many different vegetables in Wellington because the weather is just right — not too cold, not too hot. Sometimes we have wind, but we can handle it.
“When I work in the garden, I feel so happy. I meet lots of new people, and I make new friends. People come by, say hello, and admire the garden, and this makes me feel even more connected to the community.
“This garden helps me feel part of something bigger, and I’m excited to grow with it.”
