When Sohaila arrived in Australia from Afghanistan in 2021, she knew she needed to learn English. She enrolled in the Certificate III in English as an Additional Language (EAL) course at Chisholm Institute of TAFE.  

She also took part in the Ucan2 program – a program that supports recently arrived young people of refugee background to access education and employment and to make social connections.  

While participating in these courses, Sohaila became interested in pursuing a career in community services. Excited by the chance to assist others, she talked to the Careers Counsellors at Chisholm and decided to enrol in the Diploma of Community Services.

“Chisholm offers a welcoming and supportive environment to all its students. It has excellent support services, including personal counselling and career guidance,” said Sohaila. 

Sohaila found paid work in Chisholm’s Student Ambassador program and enjoyed welcoming students, particularly multicultural students, and helping them to navigate campus services.   She also volunteers with community organisations, such as the Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY) and Headspace Youth Advisory Groups.  

“I enjoy volunteering wholeheartedly. It  gives me the chance to connect with other newly arrived people and share our journeys,” said Sohaila. 

In less than three years, Sohaila has gone from learning English as a new migrant in Australia, to working toward a Diploma of Community Services and working in multiple paid and volunteer roles to support others in her community. 

Sohaila was selected as finalist in the Vocational Student of the Year category of the 2024 Chisholm Education Awards. 

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