Meet2Connect, Strengthening Communities

In 2022, we noticed a gap in the refugee and migrant sector in Tāmaki Makaurau. Despite the amazing mahi of many established and grassroots organisations working toward integration and inclusion of diverse communities, there was still a sense of fragmentation. Larger organisations often operated in isolation, while smaller groups struggled to connect with the wider sector or access existing resources and initiatives. This disconnection sometimes led to duplication of effort, and ultimately, to communities feeling isolated rather than empowered. 

We could see how these challenges were holding our communities back, but also how much potential there was for collaboration and growth. That’s why we started what is now known as Meet2Connect (originally called Shared Lunches): a regular space for our sector to come together over kai, build relationships, and share knowledge. It’s a welcoming platform for community leaders and sector partners to showcase their work, explore opportunities for mahi tahi (working together), and celebrate collective impact. In true community spirit, we put the name to a vote, and in 2023, it officially became Meet2Connect. 

Because our sector is so deeply relational, we decided that kai would be at the heart of the gatherings, a simple but powerful way to foster connection. Once a month, participants bring a plate to share and meet in an informal, inclusive environment. 

The consistency of Meet2Connect has made a real difference. Organisations that once worked in silos now have a space to stay connected, learn what others are doing, and build familiarity through regular contact. More than 40 organisations now return month after month, forming an interconnected network of collaboration and trust. 

The space has also become a bridge between service providers and the communities they support. New initiatives can be shared directly with those who might benefit, and new or emerging organisations, which can often feel isolated in a city as large and spread out as Auckland, have a landing place where they can meet others, access support, and explore partnerships. 

Collaboration sparked through Meet2Connect has already led to tangible outcomes, from the creation of a community radio show to connections that helped hospice services reach migrant and former refugee communities. 

We asked Nadir, our Community Engagement Lead and the heart of this project, what his hopes are for its future. Here’s what he shared: 

“I would like this to give way to a permanent centre for our communities, a physical hub where we can come together to build professional and personal relationships. A place that’s not just for work, but for people themselves. Somewhere friendships can form, and where new ideas can be explored, both formally and informally.” 

Nadir Shafa

If you are interested in attending our Meet2Connect, email our Community Engagement Lead, Nadir, at nadir@belong.org.nz.  To hear more about Meet2Connect and the rest of our projects, remember to subscribe to our fortnightly Sector Update, here.