Recruiting ambassador inspires next generation

Shortly after graduating as a sailor, ACT Brouwer was asked if she’d like to become a recruiting ambassador for the Navy.

The Recruiting Ambassador Programme involves shore-based Royal New Zealand Navy personnel who make themselves available to promote the Navy at schools and careers events.

She got a taste of promoting during her basic training, when she assisted Defence Public Affairs in a mini-documentary on ‘The Longest Day’, a key testing point in sailor training.

She fell in love with recruiting events while undertaking her trade training in 2022.

“My first event was in Rotorua. It gets you out of the office, talking to young people about the potential of the Navy as a career, something that’s a bit outside the ‘normal’.”

The focus tends to be senior students, year-11 to year-13.

“I get all sorts of questions. A lot of people are worried they’re not fit enough and want to know if they have to be really fit. They’ve seen movies and they’re scared basic training is going to be a harsh environment. They worry that they don’t have a say in their career. They want to know about educational requirements. And they ask me about my job, and I tell them that you have to join to know about my trade.

“I tell them that it’s a work environment. You get medical benefits, annual leave, sick leave, time off for bereavements. You’re taken care of, just like any other job in the public sector.”

She’s given talks in Auckland, Taupo, Whakatāne and twice in Rotorua. The last is her favourite location because that’s where she’s from.

“I had no idea what I was going to do after I finished school. University seemed like the only option. It took me a couple of years to work it out. I love being in the Navy – no day is the same, that’s for sure.”

She’s also handled phone queries for Defence Recruiting. “I’ve since met two people that I spoke to over the phone, who have now joined the Navy.”

“It’s such rewarding work. In Rotorua I’ve met students I remember from when they were in primary school, and they’re now in high school. They remember who I am. It’s like talking to the next generation about what their options are.”