As part of our 'Stories that Shape Learning' series for the Gowrie NSW Conference, November 2024, here are two intriguing and inspiring stories of resilience, pride and determination.
Lucy's Story
I was born in Myanmar and arrived in Wagga Wagga as a refugee with my husband and eldest daughter on 7 July 2011. The transition to a new life wasn’t easy, but I’ll never forget the kindness of our caseworker, who welcomed us and guided me into the AMEP program. Thanks to that support, we felt at home right away. I found a second family within the multicultural community and have always felt embraced by Australians. I believe in sharing my knowledge to help others succeed. My motto is: “If I can do it, anyone can. I have four children, and I’m very busy, but I still work and help my community.”
In 2012, I started AMEP at level 2, and it didn’t take long to make friends from all sorts of backgrounds. I went on to complete levels 2 and 3, then earned several qualifications, including certificates in Early Childhood Education, Aged Care, and my RSA. Balancing study with raising my children was a challenge, but it gave me the skills I needed to explore more work opportunities.
In 2017, I became a community leader in Wagga Wagga, where people now call me “Super Mum.” I love organising events, teaching Burmese language classes, and supporting new refugees as they settle into their new lives. I also started working with STARRS to assist refugees and bought two houses to offer affordable housing to families in need.
Before joining Gowrie NSW, I ran a cleaning business, and a family daycare, and worked in retail and hospitality. Now, I feel lucky to continue supporting families and children through my work in Early Childhood Education. Helping people overcome language barriers and watching children thrive brings me so much joy.
My hope is to inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter their circumstances. I believe Australia should welcome more refugees because everyone deserves a chance to succeed. It means the world to me when others see me as a role model, but I’m just grateful to be able to give back to the community that gave so much to me.
Hadiya's Story
My name is Hadiya, and I am from the Yazidi community in the small town of Dohla Shingal. In 2014, ISIS attacked our town, forcing my family and me to flee to Turkey, where we lived in refugee camps for three years. Though we were safe from the violence, life in the camps was difficult, and we struggled to settle. On June 1, 2017, we were granted immigration visas and arrived in Australia. Upon settling in Wagga Wagga, the multicultural community guided us through the transition, and I enrolled in the AMEP program.
Starting at level 1, the program helped me build confidence in my English skills, enabling me to make friends, read, and write with ease. After completing AMEP, I began working as a trainee at a Montessori daycare, where I earned my Certificate III in Early Childhood Education. In 2023, a staff member from Gowrie NSW, also from my community, encouraged me to apply for a position as an educator.
Since joining Gowrie, I’ve been able to support my community by translating for families and children, assisting with enrolment interviews, and helping staff communicate effectively with families. Working for Gowrie NSW has given me the opportunity to give back to my community and contribute to the success of the children and families I support.
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