Refugee Week 2026 – MTC Stories
This Refugee Week, we celebrate the theme A Million Stories – a milestone that recognises the one million permanent humanitarian visas Australia has granted since welcoming its first group of refugees from Central Europe in 1947.
At MTC FutureReady, we support more than 22,000 people each year, many of whom have refugee backgrounds. Their stories reflect courage, resilience and the many ways refugees enrich our communities. This Refugee Week, we are proud to share the stories of some of our remarkable participants and celebrate the contributions they make every day.
Nawres
Nawres arrived in Australia from Iraq five years ago after spending 11 years as a refugee, including 10 years in refugee camps in Syria and one year in Turkey. Despite the challenges she faced throughout her journey, Nawres has built a vibrant and meaningful life in Australia, using creativity and community connection to inspire those around her.
A self-taught artist, Nawres has received recognition for her work, including having her artwork featured on the Bondi Wall. Her story was also shared in the children’s book Nawres’ 11 Year Journey, published as part of Waverley Council‘s United to End Racism campaign in 2024. The book is now available in libraries and childcare centres, and Nawres was invited to read her story at community events across Sydney.
Today, she continues to share her talents by exhibiting her artwork, creating clothing designs and volunteering at community events through activities such as face painting for children. Alongside caring for her father, Nawres is studying a Certificate II in Workplace Skills with MTC FutureReady and remains an active contributor to her local community.
Rama
Rama arrived in Australia from Jordan as a refugee seven years ago. After completing high school and working as a pick packer, Rama decided to pursue a new career path in the care sector. She joined MTC FutureReady’s Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program to strengthen her job-seeking skills and gain the confidence needed to take the next step.
Through the SEE Program, Rama enrolled in MTC’s Pathway to Individual Care course, where she developed her understanding of the industry, the responsibilities of a care worker and the skills needed for the role. With ongoing support from MTC, including assistance with her resume, cover letter and interview preparation, Rama successfully secured a position as a Support Worker with Circle of Hope.
Today, Rama is building a rewarding career helping others and making a positive contribution to her community.
Salimata
Salimata arrived in Australia from Sierra Leone in 2011 with her family on a refugee visa, determined to build a new life for her children. Although she became an Australian citizen in 2014, learning English and communicating with others remained a challenge in her early years. After working in her daughter’s NDIS cleaning business between 2015 and 2016, Salimata dedicated her time to caring for her family while looking for new opportunities.
In 2023, Salimata joined MTC FutureReady Blacktown, where she studied English, computer skills and completed the Pathway to Cleaning course. Through her training and work experience at UTS Sydney, she developed practical cleaning skills, gained confidence and enjoyed working as part of a team.
Today, Salimata is a proud mother and grandmother whose children are making valuable contributions in local government, disability services and hospitality. She is now seeking employment in the cleaning industry and is confident her skills, experience and determination will help her achieve her goal.