Centacare’s Connecting Up Program is designed to support migrants and humanitarian entrants in developing skills that will assist them in integrating into the West Australian community. In this feature, we showcase Saied, a student who has improved his reading, writing, and speaking skills, since enrolling in the Connecting Up Program.

Saied first came to Australia, when he represented Iran at the World Transplant Games in April 2023.

“I came to Australia for the World Transplant Games with the Iranian national team. In the World Championships I won five medals in athletics,” Saied said.

“But on the last day, I did not return and stayed here and applied for asylum,” he said.

Saied found out about Centacare when he went to MercyCare – a community services organisation.

“My friend and I went to MercyCare in Mirrabooka. A lady at MercyCare told us about this place,” Saied said.

And since joining Centacare in July last year, Saied has had a great experience.

“My experience at Centacare has been good. Centacare is a very good place. Everything here is good,” Saied said.

Within the Connecting Up Program, students gain an opportunity to enhance their English language skills and digital literacy while receiving invaluable support to forge pathways into employment, training, and education – something Saied is thankful for.

“I need to learn English to go to work. My English is getting better. I feel like I’m speaking more fluently,” he said.

And he has grand plans for his future.

“I have a certificate for a soccer coach and also a certificate for refereeing soccer. I would like to continue coaching soccer,” he said.

By creating a nurturing, stress-free environment, Centacare’s Connecting Up staff have fostered a supportive, relaxed, and friendly learning atmosphere, ensuring that all students feel encouraged and motivated to improve their skills and confidence.