Syrian refugee Tarek Dawahra was caught in a dilemma shortly after settling in Lalor.
Tarek was keen to study to be able to resume his professional career in IT, but he also needed to support his family financially.
Thanks to a collaboration between AMES HSP and employment staff, he has been able to achieve both goals.
Shortly after arriving in Australia, Tarek, who has bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from Syria, enrolled in a Certificate IV course in Cyber Security. But Tarek was struggling financially and advised his AMES case manager that he would like to work.
He was supported through a fast-track registration with the federal government’s Workforce Australia employment program. Refugees are not required to register with the program for 12 months.
AMES senior employment mentor Alexandra Shamoon sent a letter to Services Australia requesting Tarek’s early activation in the Workforce Australia System.
“He expressed an interest in obtaining a forklift licence and starting work in this field while also completing his study,” Alex said.
“We utilised the Workforce Australia Employment Fund and arranged a forklift course for Tarek in May to cover the licence fee. We also used the fund to purchase personal work equipment and fuel vouchers to help Tarek begin his work journey in Australia.”
Tarek found a job as a forklift driver early in June but wanted more shifts as he was only working two days a week. He found fulltime employment with DNATA in August.
“I’m doing well and enjoying working. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work to support my family while also studying towards resuming my career in IT,” Tarek said.
“Life is good and I’m looking forward to the future.”
