An international student from Japan studying Early Childhood Education with North Coast TAFE has found employment through her TAFE contacts.

Yoko Hara first came to Australia on a holiday visa. But after falling in love with the country and the people, she enrolled in a Cert III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Port Macquarie TAFE, inspired by her niece and nephew back in Japan who she always enjoyed bonding with.

Yoko's educational journey in Australia will culminate next month when she graduates with a Diploma in Early Childhood Education.

"I'm finishing next month, so I'm just doing my final work placement and final assessment," she told the Port Macquarie News.

Thanks to the industry connections of her TAFE teachers, Yoko has already secured employment in a child care centre and nature-based school with outdoor classes.

"I found the jobs through connections from my last work placement, which TAFE organized for me," she said. "I was working there as a student and then when a job came up at another centre, they recommended me to them. They were so lovely and helpful. I feel so lucky to have these jobs."

After her graduation, Yoko plans to remain on the North Coast with regular visits to family and friends back in Japan.