On this World Refugee Day, I reflect on my journey as an Australian Indian migrant and the stories of resilience and hope I have encountered within the refugee community in Australia.
As someone who has navigated the complexities of migration, I feel a profound connection to those who have been forced to leave their homelands under far more dire circumstances.
Today, I want to celebrate the indomitable spirit of refugees from Afghanistan, Bhutan, Vietnam, Mid-East Asia and Africa who are rebuilding their lives and contributing to our diverse society.
Ethiopian Story: The Hope, Hope and Hope
I met ‘Mary’ an African Australian from Ethiopia on the bus route 494X going towards Adelaide city in 2010. She looked at me smiled and sat next to me. That was the first time in two months someone sat next to me on that daily bus journey.
She was a mature student at the University of South Australia studying Nursing at that time. I started seeing her at least three times a week as she used to attend the city campus. After knowing each other for a few weeks she asked me a question that changed my view towards life and struggles in Australia.
Mary asked, “Jitarth, why don’t you smile? You seem worried.”
I told her, “It’s just I am struggling to establish myself in Australia and keep comparing what I had in India, a good job, friends and fun.”
That was the time Mary told me her story of how she reached Australia via three countries waiting years for refugee agencies to clear her name to be accepted in Australia. Lost half the family to the turmoil in her home country.
Despite this, She was looking forward to being a nurse, contributing to the healthcare sector of Australia and one day reuniting with her family members.
She told me,
“never lose hope and ability to work towards a better future.”
I was young at that time and started calling her ‘Mother Mary’ for her kind words with full of life. Even today if I find myself in a pickle always think what Mother Mary would say and do.
Afghan Story: From War-Torn Lands to New Beginnings
Afghanistan has long been plagued by conflict, forcing countless families to seek refuge in safer lands. In Australia, I have met several Afghan refugees who are eager to build a new future.
One such individual is Ahmad*, a former teacher from Kabul. He and I both worked on a project supporting CALD community members during the difficult period of COVID. He doesn’t want his pictures to be published because of the fear that his extended family will be targeted in Afghanistan for extortion money (this story some other time).
Ahmad says, “In Australia, I see the possibility of a stable life for my children,”
“I want to contribute to the community by helping other refugees learn English and navigate their new environment.”
Ahmad’s determination is mirrored in the Afghan community’s collective efforts to preserve their rich cultural heritage while integrating into Australian society. They organise cultural festivals, participate in community service, and are increasingly engaging in local businesses and education.
Bhutanese Resilience: From Displacement to Community Building
The Bhutanese refugee community, primarily composed of Lhotshampa people who faced expulsion from Bhutan, has shown remarkable resilience. Resettled in Australia after years in refugee camps, individuals like Maya have turned their adversities into strengths.
I met Maya at Sri Durga Temple in Melbourne’s West, where her daughter was volunteering for an awareness campaign on Domestic Violence. Maya and her daughter both now work as community support workers and are deeply involved in promoting mental health awareness among refugees and migrant communities.
When I asked her why you do this work, Maya said, “Having gone through the trauma of displacement, I understand the importance of mental health.”
“Australia has given us a second chance, and I am dedicated to helping others find their footing here.”
Vietnamese Refugees: From Boats to Brighter Futures
The Vietnamese refugee crisis, which saw thousands fleeing the aftermath of the Vietnam War, left an indelible mark on Australia’s refugee history. Many arrived on perilous boat journeys, hoping for a better future. Today, the Vietnamese Australian community is a testament to the hard work and dedication of those early refugees.
Tran, who arrived in Australia as a child, recalls his family’s struggles and triumphs. “We started with nothing, but the community support was incredible,” Tran said.
“Now, I run a successful restaurant in Footscray and make it a point to hire refugees and give back to the community that supported us.”
(Food is incrediable at her place)
African Refugees: Overcoming Barriers and Fostering Hope
Refugees from various African nations, including Sudan, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, have also found a new home in Australia. Their journeys are often fraught with challenges, but their contributions are invaluable.
Amina Hussein, a refugee from Somalia, has become a voice for women’s empowerment within her community. I met her in a University program where I was asked to address young women who want to join journalism.
A very confident Amina told me “I want to ensure that women, especially those who have faced similar hardships, have the resources and support they need to succeed.”
Her work with local non-profits and community groups underscores the vital role refugees play in enriching Australian society.
Building a Brighter Future Together
As we honour World Refugee Day, it is essential to recognise the courage and perseverance of refugees. They bring with them not only their cultural heritage but also a wealth of experiences and aspirations that enrich our society. The Afghan teacher, the Bhutanese health worker, the Vietnamese entrepreneur, and the Somali advocate each represent a thread in the vibrant tapestry of Australia’s multicultural identity.
Refugees, despite their past traumas, show us the power of hope and the human spirit’s ability to rebuild and flourish. It is incumbent upon us, as a society, to support their integration, respect their contributions, and work together to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
In the words of Nelson Mandela, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” On this World Refugee Day, let us commit to making the impossible possible for those who have already overcome so much.
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Disclaimer: All images have been generated by AI to protect the identity of the interviewees.
