Through the 'Our People Their Stories' series, Downer people are bravely sharing the experiences that shaped them and the lessons they have learnt which has led them to think, act and live differently.

This month we spoke to Nizarat (Nizzie) Singh, a New Zealand colleague and Contract Manager based near Wellington. We spoke to Nizzie to learn about her story, her culture and why she celebrates Diwali, a significant Hindu festival.

Celebrated by more than a billion people worldwide, Diwali is an important festival lasting five days. Diwali is celebrated between mid-October and mid-November in the western calendar, dependent on the lunar cycle each year. During the ‘Festival of Lights’, many people of South-Asian descent light traditional lanterns at night and attend special Hindu services. People prepare their homes and themselves for the special festivities that symbolise the victory of spiritual goodness over spiritual darkness. Fireworks displays are set off to drive away evil, oil lamps are lit, flower garlands are made, candles float in bowls of water outside homes and sweets are shared as part of the festivities.

For Nizzie, Diwali is a festival she looks forward to celebrating every year. She says “Diwali gives me a reason to dress up! But it’s more than just dressing up. It’s a celebration of good over evil and optimism. It’s a happy festival.”

Growing up in Fiji, Nizzie felt that it was an inclusive and multicultural society, where people connected through celebrations like Diwali and Christmas, irrespective of their religious views. 

She says living in Kāpiti, north of Wellington is a bit different. 

“Wellington’s population isn’t as diverse as Auckland. Auckland has an abundance of cultural food, ingredients and clothing, which I don’t have in Wellington. Luckily, our friends in Auckland courier us what we need, because Auckland is an eight-hour drive from here. Don’t get me wrong though, I love Wellington. It’s a beautiful city.” 

Nizzie’s roots are Fijian-Indian, migrating to New Zealand four years ago. It was in Wellington that she met and married her partner, Sashi. She says “Our loved ones and family enable us to do our best. My role involves long hours at times, so I appreciate Sashi’s support.”

Nizzie joined Downer New Zealand’s Transport business 12 months ago as a Contract Manager for Wellington City Council. Nizzie manages a roads maintenance program which includes renewal works, drainage and capital works, as well as planned maintenance and a reactive works team. Nizzie says “Every day is different in this role and I enjoy the challenge. I love meeting people in the community who appreciate the work that we do and appreciate seeing a woman out in the field. It’s important that we continue to create a space where women feel like they can belong.” 

At Downer, Nizzie enjoys working with a team who doesn’t treat her differently because of her gender or background. “As a woman in construction, I have felt a bit isolated in previous roles, however at Downer I don’t feel isolated. My team is great, and my manager is knowledgeable and supportive. My manager understands that celebrating Diwali is important to me. Working flexibly during Diwali, will enable me to participate in rituals like a prayer ceremony, so I really appreciate this opportunity.” Nizzie will celebrate the festival at home with friends, hosting a delicious feast of Indian cuisine and Diwali sweet treats.

For Nizzie, feeling a sense of belonging is important at work, because she doesn’t have a big support network. “I have friends, but no family. Sometimes I feel my colleagues are like my work family. It’s nice to connect with people and have a laugh at work. 

In Australia and New Zealand, Diwali falls on October 24. To acknowledge Diwali at work, Nizzie will trade her usual ‘high-vis’ uniform for a different, but equally bright outfit.

Nizzie will wear a handwoven outfit called a Lahenga suit which consists of a top and a long skirt usually made of chiffon, georgette, net or crepe. The two pieces are decorated with elegant thread work, sequins, zari (or jari is thread traditionally made of fine gold or silver) and embroidery.

There are many kinds of clothing traditionally worn by Indian women across the world and all of them are associated with the local culture, religion, and the climate. 

Nizzie proudly wears traditional attire to work when she can, because she believes in valuing and sharing your culture to promote greater understanding and respect. She says “In a previous role, I celebrated Diwali and wore traditional attire to work. It was funny because some of my colleagues thought I was dressed to get married. I hope that sharing my culture at work, will encourage others to come to work and share a bit about who they are too.”  

Get in touch with Nizzie by emailing Nizarat.Singh@downer.co.nz