Gerald Lynch
As Adult Learners Week has arrived, Kangan Institute is celebrating pathway counsellor Nagat Ali-Bekhit, a refugee who forged her own path to success and is helping so many others to do the same.
Within Kangan Institute’s Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), the Craigieburn resident has worked with more than 900 students, helping them build a new life in Australia.
After fleeing her home country at 18 years of age, she completed language school and then went on to finish her secondary education, before completing a double degree in the bachelor of commerce and arts.
She knows more than most that things aren’t always going to be easy, admitting there might be obstacles along the way, but with determination and a positive mindset, you can overcome them and achieve your desired outcome.
One of Ms Ali-Bekhit’s former students, Heleen Oraha, who arrived in Australia in 2018 has already begun teaching at a community centre after completing two cert IV qualifications with Kangan.
She attributes her achievements to her teacher, explaining that during her time at Kangan Institute Ms Ali-Bekhit helped connect her to programs and qualifications that matched what she wanted to do.
Success stories such as Ms Oraha, who is now a married mother of three, are what drives Ms Ali-Bekhit to continue her work.
“I find satisfaction in helping students achieve their goals,” she said.
“I enjoy witnessing the progress and transformation of adult learners, helping them overcome challenges, and contributing to their personal and professional development.
“It makes me want to help more and more, and it feels like I’m giving back to people so they don’t have to go through the suffering I went through when I came to Australia.”
