August holds a special place in our hearts as we honor the birth month of a truly inspirational figure, Melody Yungco Opanes. As the founder of Pinoys in NZ Limited, Melody has left a mark on the Filipino community in New Zealand. Her story is one of passion, dedication, and a relentless drive to uplift others. Join us as we celebrate Melody’s incredible journey and her lasting impact on our community.
Early Life and Inspirations
Melody Yungco Opanes was born and raised in the Philippines by her dedicated parents, Bong and Ella Opanes. From a young age, Melody’s parents instilled in her values of hard work, compassion, and resilience. Ella, part of the local community unit and leadership, often took young Melody to community meetings and events, showcasing the importance of staying connected and giving back to society. Bong, a farm manager and consultant, who was known for his nurturing spirit and leadership as well, taught Melody the importance of empathy and helping those in need. Her father and mother were always the ninang and ninong for weddings and is considered Melody’s friends and cousins’ second parents.
Melody’s upbringing was not solely focused on personal success but also on the welfare of the community around her. Her parents’ influence was instrumental in her development, teaching her to be mindful of her actions and their impact on others. Being raised in a household where community service was a way of life, Melody learned early on that true leadership involves serving others.
As Melody grew older, her sense of responsibility towards her community only deepened. She excelled academically, always aware that her achievements could pave the way for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Bong and Ella constantly encouraged her to dream big but always remember her roots and the importance of giving back.
From Nurse to Community Leader
As a highly skilled nurse, Melody holds qualifications from the Philippines, the United States, and New Zealand, boasting over a decade of experience in the nursing field. Despite her demanding career in a critical care setting at one of the District Health Boards, she has consistently found ways to support and uplift the community.
When Melody moved to New Zealand, she had already qualified as a nurse. Her primary focus was to create a better life for her family and to seek opportunities that would allow her to grow professionally. However, the move also reignited her passion for community service. She realized that while the Filipino community in New Zealand was vibrant, there were still gaps that needed addressing, especially in terms of support and integration into Kiwi society.
Melody quickly immersed herself in the local Filipino community and noticed that many new immigrants faced challenges such as cultural adjustment, employment, and social integration. With the mindset that had been nurtured by her parents and the continued guidance from mentors within the New Zealand Filipino community, she set out to make a difference.
Some of the articles and National TV news representation and advocacies of Melody-
1. Filipino nurses stopped at border- https://kaitiaki.org.nz/article/filipino-nurses-stopped-at-border-2/
2. New Zealand ‘preferred destination’ for overseas nurses after visa changes https://kaitiaki.org.nz/article/new-zealand-preferred-destination-for-overseas-nurses-after-visa-changes/
3. 1 News National TV- Vital pathway for thousands of Filipino nurses coming to NZ for work in doubt
4. 1 News National TV – Calls to ease path for overseas-trained health workers in NZ
Our Mission and Vision
Our goal is to make your transition to New Zealand as smooth and successful as possible. We can’t wait to share our resources and experiences with you to help you settle and thrive in this beautiful country.
Meldz, as she is fondly called, started Pinoys in NZ as a Facebook group to promote a concert by the popular Filipino comedian Vice Ganda in New Zealand. What started as a promotional platform soon became a source of information, support, and entertainment for Filipinos in New Zealand.
Back in 2012, Melody and her JFS family (friends) saw an opportunity to bring Vice Ganda to New Zealand for a concert. She created a Facebook group to promote the event and gather interested individuals. As she engaged with group members, she realized the larger need for a community where Filipinos could connect, share experiences, and find the support they need to thrive in their new home.
Pinoys in NZ: A Community-Driven Platform
That’s when Pinoys in NZ evolved into a community-driven platform to help Filipinos settle and prosper in New Zealand. Over the years, the group has grown to over 170,000 + members, receiving hundreds of posts and memberships daily.
To keep the group sustainable, safe from misinformation and scams, Melody and her team established the Pinoys in NZ Business and Service Directory. Businesses in this directory go through a verification process to ensure they are legally operating in New Zealand and serving our community ethically. They have catch ups and group chat for support, collaborations and updates.
Inviting the Community to Connect
We invite everyone to explore our website (www.pinoys.co.nz), create your free account, and watch our helpful videos and tips. We also offer free and paid webinars, events, and workshops to help you prosper faster in New Zealand. Additionally, we have vouchers from our community business owners that you can take advantage of.
We encourage you to stay active in our Pinoys in NZ Facebook group and share your experiences so others can learn from you too. We will be sending you more updates and resources via email, so make sure to check your inbox regularly for the latest information and opportunities.
August: A Month of Celebration
August, being Melody’s birth month, is a time when the community comes together to celebrate her contributions and legacy. Throughout the month, various events are held. These activities not only celebrate Melody’s life but also serve as a reminder of the values she championed—unity, compassion, and progress.
Building Bridges for the Filipino Community in New Zealand
Establishing Pinoys in NZ Limited was Melody’s way of giving back. The organization’s primary goal is to support and empower Filipinos in New Zealand, helping them to navigate their new environment and achieve their aspirations. The organization offers many services, including help with finding jobs, accommodation, educational workshops, and cultural events.
Melody’s vision was to create a supportive network that empowers individuals to achieve their dreams while keeping their cultural heritage alive. Through numerous initiatives, including community events, support groups, and educational programs, Melody has impacted the lives of many, providing a much-needed bridge between Filipinos and the broader New Zealand society.
The Role of Mindset and Mentorship in Melody’s Journey
The mindset and mentors in the community have played a crucial role in molding Melody’s journey. One of the key elements of her success has been the strong support system and guidance she received from mentors who were already established in New Zealand. These mentors provided Melody with the tools, strategies, and emotional support needed to navigate her path, creating a bridge towards her role as a community leader.
The beauty of having an active community and accessible mentors cannot be overstated. These mentors not only shared their wisdom and experiences but also inspired Melody to push her boundaries and continue her journey of growth. By fostering a mindset of growth and resilience and through the unwavering support of her community, Melody was empowered to make a lasting impact.
With each project and initiative, Melody’s mission remains clear: to uplift others and create a supportive, inclusive community for all. Her story is a testament to the power of upbringing, the influence of mentors, and the impact one dedicated individual can have on a community.
Here’s to you, Melody, and the countless lives you’ve touched. Your spirit will always be a guiding light for us all.
Melody wearing our PiNZ Merchs featuring our Tshirt
