journey of hope

My name is James Hide, and I am a father of two wonderful daughters, Hayleigh and Hannah. Nine years ago, we made the life-changing decision to leave South Africa and build a new life in New Zealand.

In February 2019, I moved to New Zealand on a 3-year Work Visa, working for Ovato, the country's largest commercial printer. Things were going well, and I was in the process of applying for residency while planning to bring my daughters over. However, in 2020, the world changed when Covid-19 hit, Immigration closed, New Zealand's borders were locked down, and like so many others, I lost my job due to the impact of the pandemic.

Since then, I've had to apply for another work visa. The process has been emotionally and financially draining. I have spent all my savings, used up my leave, and have been unable to work while waiting for the approval. I have had to pay for medicals, police clearances from South Africa, visa application fees, and essential living expenses like rent and bills.

The hardest part is not being able to see Hayleigh and Hannah for so long. I want nothing more than to reunite with them.

Your support, no matter how big or small, would mean the world to me. Every donation brings me closer to being able to bring my daughters here, so we can finally be together again. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for your kindness. It’s been a long journey, but with your help, I hope to make this dream a reality.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

James