Jamon Amiga
Welfare Advisor, Auckland Emergency Management
Master of Disaster Risk Management and Development with Honours (Second Class, First Division)
Bachelor of Health Science in Public and Environmental Health
A single university course opened her eyes to a field she hadn’t known existed and sparked a new passion, says Jamon Amiga who now works in disaster risk management and development.
“When I started university, I imagined myself in medicine or law because those were the careers I saw most often celebrated during high school. They’re often seen as the standard for academic achievement. While I admire those paths and the people who pursue them, my own direction shifted unexpectedly in the final year of my undergraduate degree when I took an elective course on emergency management. I hadn’t known this was a potential career path, and I genuinely enjoyed the readings and was approaching assignments with curiosity, rather than obligation. That course sparked something in me and my desire to serve my community in meaningful ways.”
Her interest was so strong that she didn’t hesitate when the opportunity to enrol in postgraduate study came up and soon enrolled in a Master of Disaster Risk Management and Development.
“I’ve always been fascinated by the impact disasters have on communities and places. What moves me most are the stories, not just of loss and hardship, but of resilience and triumph that emerge in the aftermath. One idea that has stayed with me from my studies is ‘disasters don’t discriminate’. It’s a powerful reminder that no matter your job, income or social status, everyone is vulnerable when disaster strikes. That reality is what makes this field so engaging for me. It shifts the focus away from societal norms and toward the capacities, resilience and knowledge people attain, often passed down through tradition and lived experience. In many Pacific communities, these strengths are embedded in our ways of life through collectiveness, values and intergenerational wisdom.”
Creating a more resilient Auckland
Now working as a welfare advisor for Auckland Emergency Management, Jamon enjoys being able to use her understanding of disaster risk management and development to make a positive difference for Aucklanders.
“Everything we get to do in our day-to-day work and during emergency responses, is for the welfare of people. I’m constantly learning and assisting my team in refining our response processes, and being able to test this internally and with partner agencies. It’s rewarding to know that the work we do behind the scenes can make a real difference when it matters most. Every improvement we make is a step toward a more resilient Auckland.”
She enjoys the focus on collaboration and relationship building in her role.
“Building relationships with organisations across Auckland and understanding how and when they mobilise during an emergency event enables me to have valuable situational awareness. I enjoy being in a space where I can learn from many knowledgeable colleagues. Every day, I see how collaboration and compassion can shape better outcomes for communities in crisis. It’s a role that allows me to honour my values while building systems that support others.”
Advice for other students
Jamon – who graduated with her master’s degree in 2023 and says having her son watch her cross the graduation stage was a defining moment – has some great advice for other students.
“Take 30 seconds of courage, every day. Whether it’s enrolling in something unfamiliar, applying for a role, sharing your bold ideas or simply asking for advice. You don’t know what you don’t know, and growth often begins with a single brave step.”
Don’t forget to put in effort, she adds.
“Prayer without effort is just wishful thinking. Meet your prayers halfway – put in the work, stay grounded and trust the process.”
