Originally from Syria, Walaa was an English teacher in Lebanon before arriving in Australia with her husband and two daughters in mid-2024. The family settled in Brunswick Heads with support from the Mullumbimby Refugee Support Group and the CRISP program.

“When I arrived, I didn’t know what to expect. Everything was unfamiliar,” Walaa said. “But the support we received made us feel welcome and safe. I wanted to give back in the same way.” Walaa now volunteers at a local food kitchen and assists Arabic-speaking families with enrolling their children in school, completing paperwork, and attending medical appointments. She also provides in-class translation support for newly arrived students at a nearby public school.

Through her AMEP classes at TAFE NSW, Walaa has developed the English language skills and confidence to contribute more meaningfully to her community.

“TAFE NSW helped me adjust to the Australian way of speaking and living. It gave me the confidence to connect with people and help others starting the same journey,” she said.

Inspired by her community involvement, Walaa will soon begin studying a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability). The nationally recognised qualification will allow her to take on a formal caring role and support people with disability to live with dignity and independence. “I’ve seen how much a helping hand can mean. I want to turn my experience into a career where I can care for others with compassion and respect,” she said.

With demand for disability support workers in Australia forecast to grow by around 36,000 workers annually*, Walaa’s ambition reflects both personal purpose and growing workforce need.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher Robyn Moffitt said Walaa’s story highlights the transformative impact of English language education.
“Walaa’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, community spirit, and the important role of the AMEP in helping new Australians settle, contribute, and thrive,” she said. “She brings lived experience, language skills and compassion to everything she does. We’re incredibly proud to support her journey.”

Walaa’s long-term goal is to work more formally with CRISP or local community groups to welcome other refugee families, particularly those from Arabic-speaking backgrounds. “I want to help new families feel they’re not alone. It makes all the difference to feel someone understands you,” she said.

Media contact: Sarah James, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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