Yousif Nafea is an artist studying at Western’s Nirimba campus. Fulfilling his dream, Nafea depicts stories of hope and humanity through his drawings. Overcoming the challenges of life as a refugee, he seeks to inspire other young artists similarly paving their way through the creative sphere.
Artist and Western Sydney University College student Yousif Nafea. Photo by Anthony Gorgis, 2025.
Nafea said he started drawing after finding his biggest motivation as a refugee. “When I was in Turkey, I saw many talented refugees with big dreams, yet unable to achieve them. So, I made a promise to myself not to give up on my own dreams”.
‘Feelings From The Past’ – Books and Mixed Media Board [110 x 90]. By Yousif Nafea.
Nafea said he fought to find hope as an artist, for himself and for his family. “I always told myself that I would be an example for young adults like me who have talent but face difficulties throughout their journey”.
After ten years in Turkey, he arrived in Australia in June 2024. Now, he is studying at Western Sydney University College and working hard to make his dreams come true.
‘Love Sometimes Tears You Apart’ – Oil on Linen [100 x 70]. By Yousif Nafea.
“When I arrived in Australia, many people told me that I couldn’t study at a university yet,” Nafea admitted; “but I refused to give up.” He said Western Sydney University College has given him a chance to achieve his dream of being an artist.
“I believe in miracles. I am here now, and that’s a miracle,” he continued. “I was a very depressed person who had nothing. But I have reached this point because I believed in myself. I fought and sacrificed a lot.”
After this long and arduous journey, Nafea acknowledges this is not the end; rather it is just the beginning.
‘The Wonder Of Details’ – Charcoal on Paper [40 x 27]. By Yousif Nafea.
“I have always loved expressing my story through drawing. I have experimented with many different art styles in my life; each exploring my life experiences. Art allows me to communicate my story that I cannot fully express in any other way. I have always been inspired through listening to those enduring hardships and bringing them to life through art.”
Nafea said his biggest dream is for the world to hear his story, and for young adults like him to be inspired by the realisation that “nothing is impossible.”
Academic Work. By Yousif Nafea.
“I am a person who believes in miracles; and by a miracle, through the hard seasons I never stopped believing in myself,” said Nafea. “I fought a tough battle, sacrificed a lot and refused to give up, believing that these challenges were part of my journey, leading me to where I am today.”
View more of Yousif’s work on Instagram, @yousIIf and on YouTube, @yousifbashar8099.
