Abdinz

Living in a new country is full of surprises, and sometimes the most unexpected moments turn into the most meaningful experiences. One of these moments happened recently when I stumbled upon a cozy, family-run Chinese cafeteria in downtown Hamilton.

I’m not much of a coffee drinker, but something about the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the little café drew me in. After going back and forth for a few days, ordering coffee and quietly observing the hardworking couple behind the counter, I decided it was time to make a move. 

On a particularly quiet afternoon, I sat in the corner of the café, gathering my courage. I hadn’t spoken Mandarin in what felt like ages, not since I had regular one-on-one conversations back in Kenya with Chinese expert working in the capital Nairobi. I decided to break the ice. As I approached the counter, I greeted the couple in Mandarin. Their reaction was priceless—at first, they were shocked, but that quickly turned into excitement. 

What followed was an incredible exchange. The couple, surprised but delighted, immediately began chatting with me in Mandarin. We shared stories, laughing at the occasional misunderstanding as I dusted off my rusty language skills. They were fascinated by my journey from East Africa to New Zealand, and I was equally captivated by their experiences of running a business in a foreign land. 

Over the days, our bond grew. I learned more about their daily struggles—running the café seven days a week is no easy task. Despite their hard work and dedication, they are not immune to the economic hardships that have affected many small businesses. In fact, I’ve noticed a few local closures in the past months, a reminder of the challenges that come with trying to keep a business afloat.

But this couple’s resilience is admirable. They pour their heart and soul into their cafeteria, and their warm smiles greet me each time I walk in. Nowadays, I make it a point to visit their café daily. It’s become more than just a spot for coffee—it’s a place where I can practice Mandarin, connect with new people, and share in the experience of adapting to life in New Zealand.

As someone trying to improve my Mandarin skills, this unexpected connection has been invaluable. Every day, I feel more confident, exchanging stories in a language I once feared I’d forgotten. More than that, I’ve found a little corner of New Zealand where I feel welcome, connected, and part of a community. 

It’s incredible how a simple cup of coffee and a few kind words can open doors to new friendships and personal growth. In this little cafeteria, I’m reminded of how small interactions can lead to profound experiences. Through language, we’ve broken down barriers, and I’m grateful to have found not only a place to practice Mandarin but also friends who make me feel at home in this new chapter of my life.

Conclusion

This friendly couple has reminded me that embracing new opportunities can lead to meaningful connections, no matter where you are. Whether it’s learning a new language or finding community in unexpected places, life in New Zealand continues to surprise me in the best ways..