Nazrana Ali has always wanted to work. Like anyone else, she longed for independence, the chance to contribute, and the feeling of being valued. Yet many employers focused on her disability rather than her potential. She lives with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (brittle bones), along with a heart condition, chronic fatigue, and chronic pain. As the years passed, her health made it increasingly difficult to commit to fixed working hours, creating an even greater barrier to traditional employment.
These repeated setbacks took a heavy emotional toll. Nazrana fell into depression and gradually lost hope. No matter how capable or motivated she was, it often felt as though there was no place for her in the conventional workforce.
Creativity, however, had always been part of who she is. She has always been a crafty, hands‑on person, and making things brought her genuine joy. For a time, she stayed home to help care for her nana alongside her mum. When her nana passed away, life suddenly felt colourless. Nazrana knew she needed something meaningful to help her move forward, yet her options were limited. Because of her health, only a small number of courses or pathways were realistically accessible.
The turning point arrived unexpectedly. Her mum returned from a holiday in Turkey carrying three large mosaic lamps she had carefully brought all the way back to New Zealand. Seeing how much those lamps meant to her mum sparked something in Nazrana. She found herself thinking: If mosaic pieces can mean that much to someone, maybe I could create beautiful mosaic items here that others would love just as deeply.
That spark became Nazaics.
Nazrana began decorating trays, coasters, and other items with colourful mosaic tiles, crafting each piece by hand. Starting a business was daunting she had never owned or run one before but with support from the Disability Business Network, she was able to bring Nazaics to life and turn her creativity into something real.
Today, Nazaics gives Nazrana purpose. It allows her to work at her own pace and in harmony with her health, rather than in conflict with it. Every piece she creates is made with care, patience, and heart. She hopes that one day her creations will become heirlooms treasured items that are loved, kept, and passed down through generations.
For Nazrana, the greatest satisfaction comes from knowing that her work brings happiness to others, just as it brings joy to her during the process of creating it.