This is the second release of our section, My Life, My Story, our storytelling piece to inspire our multicultural communities, and is perfectly timed for Refugee Week. Today, we introduce you to Christian, our talented volunteer and SETS client. Christian's journey is marked by his resilience, hope, and determination. Let's read his story and discover the incredible experiences that have shaped his life. "My name is Christian Biregeyi Ishara, and this is my story A Life as a Refugee Since birth, I have always been a refugee. I was born in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), an area marked by three decades of conflict. I grew up in an environment of perpetual insecurity. This land, beautiful and rich in natural resources, has long been turned into a battlefield due to the greed for its minerals. In 2011, another war broke out, dispersing the population and turning villages into ruins. That day, I was with my family when chaos swept everything away. In the panic, we fled, each in a different direction. I crossed borders alone, not knowing if I would ever see my loved ones again. My journey led me to Burundi, to a refugee camp, a place where hope and resignation coexist. Arriving in Australia: A Dream Confronted with Reality After more than a decade of uncertainty, I had the opportunity to be resettled in Australia in 2023, thanks to the humanitarian program of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Australian government. Like any new arrival, I had dreams and ambitions: to continue my studies, build a professional career, and finally live a better life. I imagined Australia as a paradise, a land of opportunities. But soon, I was confronted with a more complex reality. My first obstacle was the language: I did not speak a word of English, which limited my interactions and reinforced my sense of isolation. Then, there was social pressure. Members of my community told me that I was aiming too high, that I should settle for a simple job. "A refugee cannot succeed here; you better find a factory job" they said. Yet, in Burundi, I was a journalist, a creator, and a screenwriter. The idea of abandoning my dreams to confine myself to a job without prospects was unbearable. But how could I move forward in a country where everything was foreign to me? Uncertainty and loneliness slowly plunged me into deep depression. I felt trapped, unable to see a way out. A Life-Changing Encounter I moved to Australia in 2023, and to be honest, I felt a bit lost, between the language and the new culture, I couldn’t see a way forward. Fortunately, I got in touch with MCCGC Humanitarian Settlement Program (HSP). At first, I didn’t think much of it. I had already met many people who promised help without truly understanding my situation. However, I decided to listen before making any judgments. The members of MCCGC introduced me to their various programs that support new arrivals. But more importantly, for the first time since I arrived, I felt understood and supported. One of them told me something that resonated deeply: "You are in a land of opportunities. Seize them with both hands. Here, there are no dreams what you consider a dream here can become a reality." Those words were a turning point for me. Thanks to the HSP program, I was introduced to their volunteering program and now I’m part of it. I began to understand my new environment better, improve my English, and rebuild my confidence. I learned that in Australia, information is crucial: many refugees or migrant isolate themselves, out of fear or lack of resources. But organisations like MCCGC exist to help us navigate this new world and fully integrate. A New Beginning Today, I seize every opportunity that comes my way. I have returned to cinema and storytelling my first passions. I want to tell stories, stories of refugees, migrants, and those who have left everything behind but still carry the hope of a better future. If I could share one message with those going through the same struggles as I did, it would be this: do not let anyone define your limits. You are in a country that offers you a second chance. Take it. And most importantly, never forget that every dream can become a reality." Participate in My Life, My Story If you are a migrant and would like to share your story, we have a platform to give you a voice and inspire others. Whether you want to share how you created your business, how you overcame challenges, how you got your dream job, or how you support the community, we want to hear from you. It doesn't have to be a video; we can tell your story through writing. Contact our Marketing team at marketing@mccgc.org.au Join us and discover the realities, challenges, and hopes of so many migrants seeking a better life.

Do you know someone aged 65 or over who’d love a day of connection, culture, and good company? Invite them to join us at our Chinese Club Day, a warm and welcoming space where seniors can make new friends, enjoy fun activities, and feel part of a vibrant community. It’s a great way to support mental wellbeing, ease loneliness, and share in something special. Date: Tuesday, 17 June Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Location: Cura Wellness Centre, 1 Dominions Rd, Ashmore QLD 4214 Cost: $20 (no transport) or $25 (with transport) Morning tea and lunch are included! RSVP by 11 June to secure a spot. Don’t miss out on this joyful celebration of culture and community To register, contact Anqi: AnqiL@mccgc.org.au

What a beautiful afternoon we had at our recent Brush with Nature workshop! Ten incredible women joined to unwind, connect, and let their creativity flow through mindfulness and nature-inspired art. It was more than just painting—it was about taking a moment to breathe, reflect, and enjoy the calm. We were so touched by the feedback: “Thank you for providing this opportunity. Staff and volunteers were very friendly and welcoming. It is great to meet other people in the community.” “The ladies are so lovely and helpful every time. The classes are always so relaxing, and I feel so welcome in this space. I am so excited every month to find out what we are creating. For me, this helps me with my mental health issues and gets me out of the house, which is often a struggle for me. Thank you so much.” A big thank you to everyone who joined us—you made it special. Stay tuned for next month’s creative session!