Sarah Yat is one of two Sudanese refugees to have called Greater Dandenong home. Making the most of her new opportunity, Sarah is now training to become a Leisure Service Officer at Noble Park Heated Swim Centre.By Shaun Inguanzo
TWO Sudanese refugees who fled their wartorn homeland have recently been placed on traineeships at Noble Park’s Heated Swim Centre.
Sarah Yat and Bill Kour are now training to become leisure service officers at the pool after assistance from the City of Greater Dandenong’s social development team.
Sarah said the opportunity to work at the pool was the beginning of a bright future after fleeing Sudan more than four years ago, living in refugee camps in Ethiopia, and eventually coming to Australia with little or no knowledge of its language and customs.
“When I arrived in Australia four years ago I started English lessons,” she said.
“Then I completed year 11 and started a Business Management Diploma.
“I have worked hard to make sure I have always studied or worked and this new opportunity allows me to plan for the future.”
The new take on life is something Sarah said she would not take for granted.
“I will take every opportunity I can now I live in a safe and welcoming country.”
Greater Dandenong social development manager Park Patterson said the council had been working closely with the Sudanese community to help its members with employment opportunities.
“As a result of council’s commitment to supporting refugee trainees, it is wonderful to welcome Sarah and Bill.
“They will work closely with centre staff and will also look at developing sporting activities for patrons of the centre.”
Mr Patterson said it was difficult for refugees to get a ‘foot in the door’ in the employment industry despite Greater Dandenong’s willingness to embrace different cultures.
“We are glad we can provide employment opportunities through our traineeships.”
