‘No matter what, this is my present and my future’

It’s been one year and one month since Lay Eh Htoo Paw arrived in Australia. She’s had much to learn but that hasn’t deterred her, with the former refugee recently graduating from Bendigo Community Health Services Essential Life Skills program.

“Taking this course has been like receiving a lifesaver,” she says. “Before, I knew very little about this country. I felt like a child who did not understand much. Now, this course has given me confidence, and I have grown into someone who can share knowledge with others and support my ideas with strong evidence.”

Lay Eh was one of more than 30 Karen people of refugee background who took part in the most recent round of our orientation program, attending weekly classes on housing, taxation, Australian law, social support, English, education, employment, training and so much more. Run by BCHS’s bilingual Settlement Services team, in partnership with Bendigo TAFE, the program is an important pathway for new arrivals.

“We find the groups that join us for our program are so committed to learning because they want the best start possible on their new journey,” says BCHS Settlement Services worker Nay Chee Aung. 

“It’s hard to absorb all of the new information that comes with starting a new life and we are so happy to run the program and walk beside them for as long as we can, supporting them to learn the skills they need to move forward as members of our community.”

Learning is life

For three years Lay Eh worked in education as she waited in a Thai refugee camp for the opportunity to start over in Australia. She says learning is something she will always value because of the opportunities it can provide.

“When I reflect on my life journey, I feel very happy to be here,” she says.

“I have come from a place where I had no clear goals for my future, to a place where I now have the freedom to take many opportunities. My goals are not completely clear yet but as long as I keep trying I believe I will reach them.

“I see everything as an experience, steps on a ladder that will lead me to success. I will keep learning. No matter what, this is my present and my future.”

BCHS CEO Mandy Hutchinson handed the recent graduates their certificates at the morning ceremony a few weeks ago.

“We welcome you to Bendigo with open arms,” she declared. “You bring with you a history, culture, strength and wisdom and we are so much richer because you are here.”

For Lay Eh, Bendigo is now definitely home.

“What I value most here is the community,” she said. “There is no resentment, only kindness and support. People around me welcome and encourage me from all sides.

“It feels like one of the safest places I have ever known. I can truly say this is the happiest time of my life as a young person.”