Zakaria’s Story of Success Through TMSG Support

Hello everyone, my name is Zakaria.

In 2017, I arrived in Australia with my mother and siblings after spending 9 Years in Nairobi Kenya as a Somali refugee, filled with hope and a deep determination to start anew. Stepping into an unfamiliar country, I faced both challenges and opportunities—but I was committed to building a future for myself and my family.

One of my first connections in Australia was with the Townsville Multicultural Support Group (TMSG), where I received invaluable support. TMSG helped me navigate essential aspects of settling in, from understanding local systems to feeling part of a community.

Eager to develop my skills, I began volunteering with TMSG and pursued a Business Administration certificate, completing my placement with TMSG itself. Through this experience, I gained valuable insights into community support work and discovered my passion for helping refugees. Fluent in four languages, I was able to connect easily with newcomers, offering support in ways that bridged cultural and language barriers.

My dedication led to a role as a Bicultural Support Worker, where I began assisting new arrivals just as I had once been helped. I guided people through essential tasks like setting up bank accounts, attending doctor’s appointments, catching the bus, offering empathy and guidance every step of the way.

Not long after, I was promoted to Accommodation Officer in TMSG, managing housing needs for newly arrived families and ensuring they had a safe place to call home. It was a role I found deeply meaningful, as I could provide others with the same security and support I had received.

Eventually, my journey led me to the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, where I joined as a Banking Specialist at the Aitkenvale Branch. In 2021, I made the decision to move to Melbourne. My dedication and strong work ethic soon led to a promotion to Assistant Manager—a role I am proud to hold today.

Each year, I return to Townsville for the holidays, spending time with my community and TMSG colleagues. My story reflects not only personal success but also the profound impact of community support and the power of giving back. I hope to continue inspiring others, proving that with resilience, dedication, and a heart for helping, remarkable transformations are possible.