“The hardships I faced due to my migrant status, helped me become a better human.”

I was born into a middle-class family in India, but my challenges began early. At just 15, I faced the turmoil of family fights fuelled by alcohol and drugs. Tragedy struck when I lost my mother, and soon after, my sister got married, leaving me feeling increasingly isolated.

At 18, I made a bold decision to leave home and work at a call centre to support myself. But that wasn’t enough. I dreamed bigger. With the support of my extended family, I set my sights on Australia, working tirelessly to gather funds to further my education.

Arriving in Australia, I faced hardships—days where a hot dog was my only meal and I walked long distances to save money. However, I never lost sight of my goals. Realizing hospitality wasn’t my path, I taught myself web development and landed a commission-based sales job. Despite countless rejections, I persisted.

Through grit and self-taught skills, I mastered digital marketing. Today, I stand as the CEO of Xugar, a testament to what perseverance, integrity, and hard work can achieve.

I’m sharing my story to pass on my learning that greatness isn’t born from shortcuts. It’s forged through unwavering determination, ethical choices, and treating others with kindness. My journey is a reminder that no matter the obstacles, sticking to your path with integrity leads to true success.

“In 2013, I became a full time Monk to serve God and people of his creation in a country where I never thought I would think of anything other than making money and having a good time for myself”

In early 2007, I arrived in Australia from India, driven by the pursuit of a better life both economically and in terms of day-to-day quality as a student.

My migration led me to delve deeper into the teachings of ancient India when I began learning the Bhagavad Gita at the local ISKCON temple in Melbourne. This transformative experience changed my perspective on life, revealing the potential it holds for inner happiness and peace—a pursuit many of us strive for.

Fortunately, I have not encountered any discrimination so far, and I find Australians to be very accommodating. In 2013, I made the decision to become a full-time volunteer monk, dedicated to helping and serving people on their spiritual journeys. For the past 10 years, I have been a resident monk (Brahmacari) at the Hare Krishna temple (ISKCON). I take pride in sharing the profound wisdom of India with friends from my homeland and individuals from various nationalities who seek a life beyond the ordinary struggle for existence.

Although I miss the homemade food from my mother and the companionship of like-minded saintly people, I believe that balancing the needs of immigrants and the demands of life can be achieved by addressing both outer and inner requirements. To support this, proper techniques and guidance are essential, and our temple has initiated various forums and channels to impart their importance.

Since the early 2000s, amid the student boom in Australia, our temple has been distributing free nutritious meals three times a day to anyone who walks in. This initiative caters to people from diverse backgrounds, including backpackers, international students, and those without a home. Additionally, we provide teaching programs based on the ancient Indian wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita, offering practical tools for applying these time-tested teachings in everyday life.

We extend our support to almost four universities in Victoria, distributing meals and assisting students facing similar challenges. Being the sole member of my family to migrate has impacted them, particularly since I am the only son, and my parents are growing older.

My journey so far has instilled in me self-dependency, confidence to face trials, a sense of God consciousness, and honesty with myself.

Migrants contribute to diversity, and fostering a sense of belonging is crucial for their success. International Migrants Day, commemorating these contributions, emphasises the significance of their role. Australia, a land of opportunity, allowed my family to thrive through hard work and education, despite a childhood impacted by civil war in Cambodia.

As an 18-year-old, I migrated to Australia from Cambodia through the humanitarian resettlement program 40 years ago. The initial years were challenging, but I embraced resilience, adapted to the new culture, and built connections. Early reskilling and educational opportunities were crucial for personal and professional growth. My wife, Sue, played a crucial supportive role, and staying connected to my cultural roots provided a sense of identity.

Celebrating achievements along the way became a testament to resilience. I faced hardships but believed challenges were opportunities for growth. Flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to try new things helped me overcome challenges.

Close relationships with siblings and the practice of cultural traditions have played a significant role in my life. I value the tradition of eating together as it strengthens family connections. I miss the vibrant street food culture from Cambodia, the festivals, and community celebrations. Despite missing the comfort, I appreciate the cultural diversity in Australia.

One of my proudest moments as a father is seeing all my children graduate from universities and settle into their careers.

To support new migrants, I suggest creating a community information hub for referrals and services, acknowledging the overwhelming nature of cultural shock. Migrants, when welcomed and feeling a sense of belonging, contribute positively to society.

The philanthropic work I engage in aims to support grassroots community groups, multiplying positive outcomes. My aspiration is to promote harmony, tolerance, and cultural diversity.

My migration story reflects the classic migrant experience, with my wife and me staying connected to our faith and humble roots. A commitment to continuous learning shaped my journey. My goal is to empower individuals to achieve success on their own terms.

In Colombia, I felt that I didn’t have a clear identity, I was just “fitting in” to belong. In Australia I uncovered my uniqueness and I embrace it.

I arrived in Australia from Colombia back in 2009, seeking a change in my life. My motivation was to have greater work flexibility, pursue my passions, and immerse myself in a new culture. As an international student, I enrolled in the Diploma of Tourism.

For fellow migrants, I advise having a clear goal and staying focused on it. During challenging times, recalling your purpose for being here serves as a driving force.

Migration has significantly shaped my identity. In Colombia, I felt a lack of a distinct identity, merely “fitting in” to belong. In Australia, I discovered my uniqueness and embraced it. While I’ve found a sense of belonging in diverse professional communities, my personal life still presents challenges in this regard.

Discrimination has been minimal, with only a minor incident at a shopping centre in Frankston. I may have encountered unconscious biases behind the scenes, but overall, my diverse background and values have contributed to the success of my business.

My business focuses on inspiring people to bring more joy and connection into their personal and professional lives, do what they love, in their unique way, through workshops, programs and mentoring. ​Despite missing my friends, family, and the natural beauty of Colombia, I stay connected with them and engage i​n Latinamerican festivals​ and events.

To thrive as a migrant, understanding and exploring various diverse experiences is crucial. Being curious about new aspects of life, such as food, people, places, jobs, and communities, and establishing a support network are essential. Taking care of physical, emotional, and mental well-being is vital.

I’ve been fortunate to achieve a great deal since my migration, including communicating effectively in a second language, pitching my business, hosting events, facilitating workshops, being featured in various media, and completing an MBA and several Diplomas. I’ve also become a speaker, a published author and use my talents for positive social impact.

Even though my two sisters migrated to different countries and my parents are still in Colombia, my family stays connected despite the distance. We talk weekly and make it a point to meet every year—an effort that, though not always easy, is always worthwhile.

Through migration, I uncovered my skills as a dance teacher, MC, speaker, entertainer, trainer, author, and more.

I have improved on my executive presence and leadership skills that are authentic to my culture and values.

In November 2008, despite a highly successful career in the Philippines, I relocated with my family to Australia, driven by the desire for a safer and more secure life for my children.

Initially, I believed that my qualifications, including a PhD from the United States, experience in senior leadership, and high degree of competence, were sufficient to achieve my career goals. However, as a migrant woman of colour in Australia, I encountered barriers unrelated to my merit. Overcoming these challenges required resilience and confidence while staying true to my values and culture.

In my professional life, I often find myself as the only woman or person of colour in negotiations and meetings. I’ve learned to overcome discrimination and unconscious bias by exuding self-assurance as a trusted advisor.

I have improved on my executive presence and leadership skills aligned with my Filipino culture and values, rather than conforming to a heteronormative Western male paradigm. I am passionate about mentoring fellow migrants do the same and help them achieve their career goals, which I do both as a volunteer and through my social enterprise.

For fellow migrants, I recommend tapping into the various support systems available and networking with like-minded people. Most Australians are genuinely willing to help you integrate into their community.

Being a first-generation migrant, I speak the language fluently and regularly journey to Vietnam, motivated by a deep curiosity to understand the historical depth of my cultural traditions. I am committed to imparting this knowledge to future generations and preserving the lively stories of the Vietnamese diaspora in Australia.

I come from a Vietnamese cultural background, born to parents who sought refuge in Australia during the early 80s after the conclusion of the Vietnam War. Fleeing the oppressive communist regime and grappling with poverty, they were part of the wave of hundreds of thousands of refugees searching for safety and a new beginning.

To my fellow migrants, I urge you not to lose hope. Migration is a journey, not a fixed destination. Keep persevering, and don’t hesitate to seek support within your community. Migrants should strive to integrate into their local community, finding support in neighbourhood institutions such as community centres, libraries, sports clubs, charities, or schools. Australia, a benevolent nation, is ready to assist its migrants. I straddle two worlds and cultures, feeling not entirely Australian or Vietnamese. Despite this, I take great pride in my heritage, cherishing the unique identity it contributes to Australian society. I actively engage with the Vietnamese community in Melbourne, encouraging fellow migrant children to reconnect with their cultural roots.

While my extended family remains in Vietnam, the absence of my grandparents, who passed away, leaves me with a sense of guilt during visits.

One of my proudest moments was receiving the Dame Elizabeth Murdoch Premier’s Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016, making history as the youngest recipient in Victorian history at the time. Inspiring future generations of migrant youth is a fulfilling aspect of my journey. Growing up as a first-generation migrant in Australia, I’ve honed skills in cross-cultural communication, empathy, emotional intelligence, and working with diverse communities by connecting with various cultures.

As migrants to Australia, we all share the responsibility of acknowledging and respecting the traditional custodians of this land, the Aboriginal people. Their stories, struggles, and pain should be recognized, and as migrants, we should stand in solidarity with them in the reconciliation process.

I believe everyone should embrace their unique story and identity. Our rich cultural history and migration narratives are valuable assets that contribute strength to this country.

Australia welcomes those who dare to dream, fostering a mosaic of opportunity, harmony, and shared prosperity.

I came to Australia from Malaysia in 1993 as an international student and later in 2005 as a migrant seeking better opportunities for my daughters. Embracing the diverse presentation of humanity, I believe in creating a harmonious, fair, and inclusive country. Australia is now my home, and to live our best lives, I advocate for hard work, avoiding complacency, and being the change we want to see.

As a determined single mother and a “new” migrant, I brought courage and hope, viewing this as a period of opportunity. Despite not being an early migrant, the socially and culturally accepting environment allowed for a quality lifestyle despite modest income. Australia’s multiculturalism, especially in Melbourne, provided fairness and opportunities for contribution.

Growing up in a male-dominated society in Malaysia, migrating to Australia was liberating. It allowed me to pursue a career of my choice, engage in community work, and find a balance that enabled me to live to my true potential. Over the last two decades, I dedicated time to various volunteer organisations, aligning with my values.

As an Asian Australian, I faced stereotypes and biases in my 25-year career, but I persevered, working hard to prove myself. Despite tough days, I never gave up, prioritising work. I still maintain connections with Malaysia. I actively engage with the Chinese community through the Chinese Association of Victoria and the Australian Asian Family Association. I participate in Malaysian Consulate events, cherishing the cultural roots through celebrations like Merdeka Day and Chinese festivals.

I was honoured by the Victorian Multicultural Commission for my community service in 2022 and business excellence in 2021. I was inducted into the Australian National Monument to Migration in 2022 for my advocacy in multiculturalism. My involvement with the Mental Health Foundation Australia as a Multicultural Attaché allowed me to serve and cook for thousands during the 2020 and 2021 lockdowns.

Migrating to Australia led me to meet my husband, Roger Chong, my greatest support. I’ve learned the importance of creating opportunities and making our world safe for everyone to thrive. Migration is more than crossing a border, it’s about embracing new beginnings and contributing to a brighter future.

Migrants need to be realistic about their expectations and try to adapt to change in their new homeland. These are the things that helped me carry on teaching for 40 years, across 3 countries and ultimately achieving recognition and respect in the education sector.

At my prime in India, I was the head of my department of physical education at Guru Nanak Dev university, where I taught for 17 years, the first ever women to complete her PHD on the sport she had played in. Had been part of the Indian hockey team since age 16 and represented India in World Cup, World Championship and even the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Living on university campus in Amritsar and having a young family, life was quite breezy.

However, as time went on, my husband and I thought about the bigger picture and our children’s future. We decided to migrate to New Zealand in 1999 and it was a huge culture shock. When we initially landed in Christchurch with 2 young children and 4 suitcases, I thought to myself “Have we made the right decision?” From there my journey started and it was not always easy. Having my teaching qualifications really helped and it was based on this that I was able to continue in my profession as a teacher for 13 years in New Zealand.

In 2013 I again migrated, this time to Australia, again to be with my family. Even though this was a little easier than my initial move, it still felt like I was starting a new leaf. A new country, new people and finding a new job again. Luckily again I was able to get straight into my teaching in Australia as well and I still am currently teaching full time, something that I truly have a passion for. I have to appreciate that in both New Zealand and Australia, I was able to gain more respect and recognition for my efforts and hard work in the education sector, compared with my home country.

Migrating is a very big step and doing it with a young family is even more scary. However, migrants must remember to be realistic with their expectations as well as their goals. Be sure to accept and adapt to change and be mentally prepared that there will be many roadblocks on the way, but perseverance and having a goal in mind will help you to carry on with your journey.

As a way of staying in touch with my motherland, language, and culture I keep myself heavily involved in our community. I am a radio presenter for Radio Haanji a 24/7 Punjabi radio station as well as running my own cultural group ‘Apna Virsa Apni Boli’ (Our culture Our language). I also belong to the Caroline Springs Hockey Club and have been a part of the International Melbourne Hockey Cup.

Everyone should travel when they can. It’s an opportunity to learn a new language, pick up a hobby, do those fun things you’ve always wanted to do. One should also help out in the community by volunteering your time. This is your society, your world.

I was born in Singapore, educated in Melbourne, and have a diverse professional background, including roles as a registered nurse, qualified lawyer, mediator, and officer in the Royal Australian Air Force. My experiences range from indigenous health to commercial law in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Australian society gave me opportunity to explore different avenues and careers. I would recommend the following advise to migrants – be patient with yourself and your surroundings. Immerse yourself in your new society while remembering and honouring your roots. Maker sure to visit all parts of Australia when you have an opportunity. It really is a breath taking country, like no other.

Beyond my professional pursuits, I’ve been actively involved in various organisations, holding positions like the President of the Islamic Council of Victoria and Vice President of the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils. I’ve received awards and recognition for my contributions, including the La Trobe University Young Alumni Award and being named one of the Top 10 Muslims who save lives in 2013.

Having a sub-school named after me for community contributions in 2017, I now live in Singapore, staying connected with Australia through various channels. Despite missing the open spaces and unique aspects of Australia, I emphasise patience and resilience for fellow migrants, citing the quote, “With hardship comes ease.”

I reminisce about my time at University High School in the 1980s and maintain connections with Australia, engaging in activities like reading ABC, watching AFL, NRL, and cricket, and participating in Australian groups in Singapore.

The advice I share is inspired by Mahatma Gandhi: “Be the change you want to see in the world.”

Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.

In 2010, I made the life-changing decision to migrate from India to Australia, seeking better educational opportunities and a higher quality of life. Australia, to me, is a blessed country with stunning landscapes and a diverse and welcoming culture that offers ample opportunities to shape one’s dream life.

Migration profoundly boosted my self-confidence, and I embraced the Australian way of life. A significant testament to this acceptance was my solo motorcycle journey covering 16,500 kms around Australia, where I encountered no discrimination based on my skin colour or origin.

Coming from an Indian background, my wife Devangi and I, hailing from Gujarat, maintained our cultural ties by cooking vegetarian food and establishing our businesses Aavas Consultants & Ravi Blinds in Australia. Celebrating festivals and sharing our culture with friends and colleagues helped us maintain our identity in the diverse melting pot of Australia.

While India is known for its grand festivals, as a migrant, I found joy in creating and participating in festive environments in a foreign land. I believe understanding a migrant’s backgrounds is crucial for better support, and community events and cross-cultural participation contribute to smoother acceptance and understanding.

One of the proudest moments in my life was completing the “Grand Australian Ride”, a solo motorcycle adventure around the entire country on a Royal Enfield Himalayan. This journey not only showcased the beauty of Australia but also taught me valuable life lessons about resilience, belief, and the importance of taking one step at a time.

Family settlement in Australia, including my siblings and mother, strengthened our bond, making this foreign land truly feel like home. Migration reinforced the idea of “survival of the fittest”, making me believe in my own strength and resilience. Australia has provided the platform for me to live my dreams, from motorcycle adventures to mountain climbing (@GrandExped), travelling around the world (@PlanSetTravel) and business development. As I proudly call myself Australian, I recognise the positive impact of migration on my life. I believe every migrant story is worth sharing, and through exploration and embracing the world as one family, life becomes truly beautiful.

I encourage others to let their past experiences make them better, not bitter, and to understand that life begins at the end of the comfort zone. The Sanskrit phrase “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” encapsulates the idea that the whole world is one family, reinforcing the beauty of exploration and interconnectedness.