Flemington   Kensington   Community   Mentoring   Program

Samantha

For a few years I've wanted to do some volunteer work that involved a one-on-one relationship with somebody I could help and also learn from. Having moved to Australia from South Africa 12 years ago, I was interested to learn more about the refugee experience and develop a role in helping to adjust to this new life.

As soon as I saw the advertisement in the local newspaper, I knew I wanted to be involve in the Flemington Kensington Community Mentoring Program. After an initial meeting and police check, the coordinator of the program set about matching mentors and their new partners.

I really hit the jackpot with Nada, a delightful Sudanese teenager. She has a sparkling personality with a really easy laugh. With outstanding English, Nada's priority is to "integrate" - She wants to learn how things work and see new places. We go for drives, see movies or spend time on her assignments and homework. She recently got her learner's licence, so our next step is to arrange driving lessons.

I'm so glad that I'm doing this volunteer work. I love being friends with Nada and learning more about her culture and views on life. I'm inspired by her, her family, the Sudanese community and refugees in general.

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