Learning Curve to Independence

Can you tell us about your journey to Australia and what lead you to The Gordon?

As a female activist from a patriarchal society like Afghanistan, I never imagined that one day my destiny would bring me to Australia. I left Kabul for India in 2013 due to security concerns for myself and lived as a refugee there. In 2019, I received a phone call from an officer at the United Nations Refugee Agency asking if I would like to move to Australia and start a new life. I was so happy — I laughed out loud and said, “Yes, of course. I love Australia.”

After interviews and preparation, my journey began, and I arrived in Geelong in March 2020. The first thing I looked for was an English class. I kept asking people where I could study, and someone recommended The Gordon. I began with a Certificate IV in (EAL) English, then moved into a Diploma of Community Services, which I completed last year.

Education is often described as a pathway to positive change. What does that mean to you personally?

In simple words, we say a person without education is blind, and with knowledge, it is like having sight. This is very real for me.

I grew up in a country at war, where women often did not have the right to education. I experienced that blindness. For me, education is knowledge — and knowledge is the power of independence.

What role did studying at The Gordon play in shaping your new career?

The Gordon discovered a skill in me and introduced me to the world of community services. I love helping people. Through my studies, I became a bridge between the Afghan community living in Australia and the wider Australian society, which can still feel separate at times. I learnt a great deal about myself and my community and I became a professional in the community sector, with a clear understanding of my role and the services I provide.

You are proud of your heritage. Why is it important for you to share your story through traditional Afghan embroidery and weaving?

I am proud that during one of the darkest times of war and hardship, I chose art as a way to create and contribute, even when I felt I had nothing else. Through my embroidery, I want to show that women are never the cause of war or oppression, yet they carry the greatest burden. Still, they continue to strive for a better life. I am proud to share this story with the people of Australia.

Fashion plays a big role in your life. Can you tell us about Regional Runways and how you became involved?

I love fashion and art. In my early years in Australia, I couldn’t find hand embroidery anywhere in Geelong or Melbourne. I remember thinking that perhaps no one here knew or valued embroidery. That changed when I met Kathy, the chair of Regional Runways, through my colleagues three years ago. She loved my work and encouraged me to share my passion with the Geelong community. Through Regional Runways, I ran a series of workshops at Armstrong Creek Library and Corio Community Centre. In June 2024, I was part of an exhibition at the Geelong Library, and I am currently featured in the Geelong Fashion Fortnight Window Gallery Display on Yarra St. It’s exciting to see the growth of fashion and art in Geelong, and I love contributing to that journey.

How does your work and community involvement help empower other women and celebrate cultural diversity?

I support women by sharing information about their rights, laws and legislation. I encourage them to learn, because knowledge gives power and understanding. I also create safe spaces where women can build trust and share their experiences. I celebrate cultural diversity by sharing my own heritage and encouraging others to share theirs.

What advice would you give to others who are considering studying at The Gordon?

Through my work in settlement services, I always encourage Geelong’s diverse communities to study at The Gordon. It is a place where people can discover their hidden skills. The teachers genuinely care for each individual, and that makes students feel valued, calm and confident. When people feel safe and respected, they learn better — and The Gordon truly creates that environment.