Stories of welcoming for Welcoming Week 2025 – Francoise Vaughan
Published on 21 August 2025
Francoise Vaughan shares her story with us as part of a series celebrating the contributions of newcomers in our community for Welcoming Week (5 to 14 September 2025).
"People made me feel welcome, and it means a lot," says local businesswoman Francoise Vaughan.
"I was born in Belgium, raised in France, and spent 15 years in South Africa before making New Zealand my home several years ago. I moved from South Africa searching for a place that was beautiful, safe and full of opportunities. New Zealand ticked all the boxes, and it became the first place where I truly felt home.
"I've been a migrant all my life, and settling into a new community can be challenging."
When asked for any tips for newcomers, Francoise suggests to find a group of interest.
"New Zealand is incredibly community-oriented, and there's always a way to find your people, it might mean starting with a knitting workshop, a new sport, a language class or whatever tickles your fancy.
"I run an accounting firm where I help small business owners with strategic advice. Think of me as a mini-CFO. In Whangārei, word of mouth is everything, so starting out with a clear plan and strong local connections made all the difference.
"I also serve on the boards of Volunteering Northland and the Chamber of Commerce, where I have been blessed to learn from very talented people.
"But what brings me the most joy? Seeing my clients grow into confident, capable business owners.
"My dad used to tell me, 'There are no problems, only solutions.' That's a mantra I live by. When I get stuck, I take a moment to reflect, unravel the situation, and move forward. It's a quality most migrants develop quickly and is also known as resilience."
Nau mai, haere mai – welcome to Whangārei, Francoise.
Welcoming Week is an annual event that brings people together to honour the cultures, stories and contributions of newcomers in our communities, including migrants, former refugees, international students and anyone who has recently made this place home.