My Journey from India to New Zealand

My name is Jismy James Berthalomaniam, and I would like to share how God has powerfully worked in my life—especially over the past couple of years.
I have always considered my life a blessing—my family, friends, and the many people who have come into my life at the right time. But recently, I’ve experienced God's hand in ways that leave me deeply grateful and amazed.
My journey to New Zealand began with preparing for the OET (Occupational English Test). The first time, I received three C+ grades and one B. The second time, I got three B grades and one C. Around the same time, the rules changed—allowing us to combine scores from different attempts. I saw this as God’s perfect timing.
Through this, God sent people we had never met before, who guided us through the nursing verification process and registration with the New Zealand Nursing Council. Their help was unexpected but crucial. We believe that Jesus connected us with them to support our journey.
Once I completed the registration, the right agency helped me with my admission to the CAP (Competency Assessment Programme) course. Everything fell into place so smoothly, I often wondered how and why God had been so generous with me—even when I knew I didn’t deserve it. He had arranged everything before I even arrived in New Zealand.
When I landed, I was welcomed by a housemate I had never met before—yet she was incredibly kind and helpful. Everyone I met during my stay showed care and support. I completed my CAP course successfully. Although I was the only Indian in Waimate and initially felt alone, I started going to church every Sunday. There, I met a priest who spoke my language and connected me with others from my background. That made a huge difference.
Finding a job, however, wasn’t easy. I faced several rejections, and it affected my confidence. During this low point, my mother and husband offered me great emotional and spiritual support. I turned more earnestly to prayer and found peace through my growing relationship with Jesus.
Then came my immigration medical exam, which was booked in Timaru, but I had no one to take me. I asked the priest in Waimate, and he kindly offered to drive me after Sunday Mass. Interestingly, that same clinic would later become my workplace—without me ever applying there.
While the clinical manager was taking my details, she unexpectedly asked if I would like to work there. I was surprised but said yes. That led to an informal interview where the employer simply chatted with me and invited me to join the team once my work visa was approved.
I had to wait a month for my visa, and during that time, I felt deeply homesick. I missed my children and family in India. I prayed, asking Jesus to make a way for me to visit them. I even asked my employer if they could help, though I knew it was an unusual request.
To my amazement, a few days later, my employer agreed to buy my plane ticket to India—something many had told me was impossible before officially starting a job. But with God, nothing is impossible.
My visit home was filled with joy. I spent precious time with my family. While I was there, another miracle happened. My only brother, who had struggled for years to get a government job, suddenly received three job offers. He is now working as an Excise Inspector.
Also, my mother—who is a widow—and I had long been praying for my brother's future and marriage. While I was still in India, God brought into his life a wonderful veterinarian, who is now his wife. I was even able to attend their engagement ceremony before returning to New Zealand.
Since then, the blessings have only continued. My employer helped us find a home. My husband and children have joined me, and both my husband and I have received our driving licenses. We have also been granted residency. And most recently, we’ve been blessed with the news that I am expecting a child.
Looking back, I see how each moment—each challenge and breakthrough—was part of God’s plan. From exam results to immigration, jobs, family, and new beginnings, His hand was in everything.
I am deeply grateful for all the people God placed in my life and for the love and support of my family, especially during the hard times. I share this testimony to give glory to Jesus and to encourage anyone who might be struggling—keep trusting, keep praying. His timing is always perfect.
– Jismy James Berthalomaniam
