September 16, 2025
Kaira had been working in health and safety for years. It was stable, steady work — but it didn’t inspire her. Then a small task changed everything. Asked to update website content, she discovered a spark. For the first time, she could see how design and technology could shape experiences and open new possibilities.
That spark grew into determination. She wanted a way into tech, but the traditional path of years at university and heavy debt wasn’t an option. Kaira needed a faster, smarter route, one that fit her life and gave her the experience employers value.
That’s when she found Mission Ready. The 20-week accelerator offered practical training, mentoring, and real industry experience. For Kaira, the difference was clear: she wouldn’t just be studying. She would be preparing to step into the industry.
At Mission Ready she trained with Corinne Davies, a long-time UX leader and Hi-Tech Awards finalist. Corinne grounded everything in reality — live workflows, real processes, the way design is done on the job. Kaira wasn’t treated as a student. From day one, she was a developing professional, building skills and confidence to contribute to real projects.
Her mentored work experience was with Buzzly. Developed by Auckland Council’s Southern Initiative, Buzzly had recently won a prestigious global award for Digital Innovation with Social Impact at the World Summit Awards.
At Buzzly, Kaira contributed fresh ideas and design energy, working alongside seasoned professionals and guided by Mission Ready alumni. She brought curiosity and commitment, and in return gained mentorship and collaboration. That exchange gave her more than new skills — it gave her the confidence that she belonged in tech.
Buzzly loved her work so much they hired her as Lead UX Designer. Looking back, she says the hardest step was deciding to take the leap.
Her story shows what Mission Ready stands for: accessible, outcome-driven career transformation. From leaving school early to stepping into a mission-focused tech career, Kaira proves it’s not about years of study or mountains of debt. It’s about gaining relevant skills, mentored work experience, industry connections — and the confidence to build a new career in just 20 weeks.