The selfless sacrifices my parents made for our well-being continue to be a constant source of strength and inspiration.

Motivated by their desire for a better future for their children, my parents embarked on a brave journey from Myanmar (Burma) to Australia, leaving behind a life of relative privilege in pursuit of freedom from the oppressive junta regime. They had the foresight to recognise that their children had the potential to think critically and question authority. In 1973, the Whitlam Labor government’s dismantling of the White Australia policy opened the way for our family to migrate to Australia. Since Burma was a Commonwealth country, my uncle, who was an engineer and met the migration criteria, was able to secure sponsorship from Trans Australian Airlines. As a result, he sponsored my grandmother, and eventually our family, to reunite in Melbourne.

The small Anglo-Burmese community in Melbourne became our lifeline, preserving our ties to Burmese culture, cuisine, and language. The rich flavours of Burmese food and the warmth of family connections are deeply ingrained in my heart, representing the essence of my homeland. Despite being physically distant from Burma, my Burmese heritage remains an integral part of my identity, a constant reminder of my roots. Our home became a welcoming sanctuary for fellow Burmese newcomers and established residents, always filled with food and laughter.

My parents’ unwavering dedication to their children’s future led them to make significant sacrifices, leaving behind their careers to take up menial jobs that did not match their academic qualifications. While our migration to Australia occurred under different circumstances than many face today, the underlying message remains the same: embrace diverse opportunities, persevere through challenges, and acquire proficiency in the English language to improve employment prospects. Proficiency in the English language is a powerful tool for migrants, fostering greater integration and engagement in society. The ability to adapt to new opportunities is crucial, regardless of perceived societal differences. My father’s transition from an Engineering Lecturer to a logistics professional and my mother’s from a teacher to a canteen hand and cleaner is a testament to this adaptability, ensuring the well-being of our family.

Australia in the 1980s had a limited worldview, which became evident when my siblings faced derogatory remarks on their first day of high school. This experience left a lasting impact on our early Australian journey. Despite these challenges, I have achieved personal milestones, such as graduating from university and enjoying a lifestyle comparable to my Australian-born peers, fulfilling the dreams that brought our family to this country.