Students taken on a once-in-a-lifetime experience of an asylum seeker journey
ST Marks Catholic College in Stanhope Gardens Year 10 students were taken on a once-in-a-lifetime experience of a simulated refugee and asylum seeker journey.
Rouse Hill
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ST Marks Catholic College in Stanhope Gardens Year 10 students were taken on a once-in-a-lifetime experience of a simulated refugee and asylum seeker journey.
Religion teacher Natalina Anwar said the journey was part of Cumberland Council’s annual Refugee Camp in my Neighbourhood program.
“For some students, the experience really brought to light the issue of refugees and asylum seekers is really in our neighbourhood, not just something which happens overseas or portrayed in the news,” Ms Anwar said.
“The tour guides, who all were refugees, enlightened the students on what the journey to Australia is like, from being told to leave everything you own and your whole identity, to living in a refugee camp with thousands of people for 15 years, to the moment you are granted a permanent visa in Australia.’’
Year 10 student Alex Dobrecovic said the experience was eye-opening.
“What we saw was only a small part of a big picture,” he said. “Hearing other peoples stories and how determined they were to live a safe and successful life – it’s inspired me.”
For others, they realised how privileged they are to have access to basic human rights like clean water, shelter and freedom.
Year 10 student Tye Dunn-Astill said he thought to himself that he needs to be more appreciative and grateful for what he has and what he receives.
Some also realised even though they live in Australia, they are not immune to ever being in such a situation. The students are now discussing ways that they can bring their experiences into the community to make a change.
It has inspired them to not only want to raise money, but raise awareness and be advocates for the displaced.
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