I am a fourth-year Civil Engineering student at Western Sydney University, currently completing a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours). Alongside my studies, I work as a Student Ambassador and as a Project Officer for the First Foot Forward program at the University. I have always believed in education’s transformative power to change lives. I enjoy studying engineering because I’m drawn to intellectually challenging subjects requiring strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically. For me, engineering is not just about structures and systems but creating solutions to improve people’s lives and build sustainable, resilient communities.
My academic journey began in Iraq in 2013, where I commenced a degree in Environmental Engineering. Later, in 2016, conflict in the region disrupted my education and forced me to leave my studies, country, and everything familiar in search of peace and stability.
In 2017, I arrived in Australia as a refugee. English was my third language, and I faced many challenges adjusting to a new country and way of life. But I was determined not to let my dream of becoming an engineer fade. I began by studying a certificate IV in English for Academic Purposes to build a strong foundation for my future education.
Life, however, had its own timeline. I chose to pause my university ambitions until I knew my children and I were ready for the next big step. Even during this time, I maintained my dedication to personal development. I completed courses in pharmacy assistance and pathology.
In 2022, I took the next step and enrolled at Western Sydney University, completing my Diploma in Engineering. In 2023, I gained valuable industry experience as an engineering intern with Mott MacDonald, one of the world’s most respected engineering consultancies. I worked with the rail and tunnel team on the Sydney Metro West project, where I applied the theoretical knowledge gained at the University to real-world engineering challenges.
I proudly serve as a Western Sydney University Student Ambassador. In this role, I represent the University, support prospective students, and contribute to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. It has helped me develop strong communication, organisational, and leadership skills while inspiring others to pursue their goals. At the same time, I am honoured and privileged to be a Project Officer for the First Foot Forward (FFF) program at Western a role that allows me to encourage future generations to realise their infinite potential.
My university position allows me to share my story, uplift others, and remind them that dreams can be reached with perseverance, support, and belief in oneself. Becoming a role model was not an intentional plan but developed from my experiences. As a woman, mother, refugee, engineering university student, and student ambassador, I have faced many challenges that could have been setbacks. Instead, I transformed them into stepping stones. I have discovered that consistently persevering, especially under challenging circumstances, empowers others to follow likewise. I have realised that leadership does not always need a title. At times, it involves silently demonstrating, day after day, the feasibility of balancing motherhood, school, employment, and community duties. It means challenging assumptions placed on refugee women, and showing, our voices, skills, and ambitions matter.
Through this path, I’ve become deeply aware of the power of visibility. When others see someone who looks like them, speaks their language, or has walked a similar path succeed, they believe they can too!. That’s why I continue to share my story, not for recognition, but to spark belief in others. I want students, especially those who feel uncertain, to know it’s okay to take time, face setbacks, and dream big. What matters most is perseverance.
Leading by example is the most powerful way to inspire others to overcome language barriers, social isolation, and challenge stereotypes. My story is one of resilience, adaptability, and hope. It shows no matter the obstacles: war, displacement, family responsibilities, age, or personal challenges, it is possible to rebuild, strive, and achieve. By sharing my journey, I hope to motivate other students to study, prepare for careers, and pursue ambitions. My journey is remarkable not just because of persistence but the impact I hope to create. As a mother of two, I strive to build a brighter future for my family while inspiring other women from refugee backgrounds to pursue higher education and professional development.
The key to success has been time management, prioritising what matters, and multitasking. I plan my classes in the morning while my kids are at school, then fully step into my role as a mum until their bedtime. After they sleep, I dedicate my nights to studying and moving towards my goals.
It is not always easy, but it is always worth it.
I want to share my story to remind everyone that age does not define dreams. I started my university journey at 27, and as a mum of two beautiful children, I learned you can still achieve your goals no matter what life stage you’re in. I am deeply grateful for my family, friends, and classmates’ support. Whenever I needed help, my family was there, lifting me up and encouraging me. I give special thanks to mum and dad, who raised me to be a confident and determined person. Their positive impact gave me strength, even when the road felt incredibly hard.
To anyone doubting themselves—please believe in your strength. You are capable of more than you realise. It is never too late, and your circumstances do not define your future. With determination, hard work, and belief, you can make your dreams a reality.
“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength” Philippians 4:13.
“The God of heaven will give us success. We, his servants, will start rebuilding.” Nehemiah 2:20
