Media releases

Work & Welcome program in action: MMCC students make a difference

Vian, a Yezidi refugee from Iraq

The inspiring story of 'Boy Overboard' by Morris Gleitzman, which follows two young boys escaping the Taliban on a perilous journey to Australia, has deeply resonated with the Year 6 students at Mary Mackillop Catholic College (MMCC). Motivated by this tale of resilience and courage, the students have raised over $4,600 in the past two years to support refugees in Toowoomba through the Work & Welcome program. Their efforts, including sausage sizzles and chocolate tosses, have made the College a significant contributor to this program. This year, they took their commitment a step further.

When Mark Taylor, Founder of Work & Welcome, proposed employing someone from the program, Paula O’Rourke, Assistant Principal Mission and Identity (APMI), eagerly embraced the opportunity. She saw it as a chance to show students the direct impact of their fundraising efforts.

Vian, a Yezidi refugee from Iraq and a qualified teacher was hired as a School Officer at the College. Despite initial nervousness and feeling 'awkward', Vian quickly found her place, thanks to the welcoming students and staff. Her positive attitude and love for working with young students helped her connect with the school community, and she now feels she better understands how they think. Her role involved one-on-one student support, assisting teachers in creating resources and leading small groups.

Since joining the College, Vian’s English has improved significantly, boosting her confidence to apply for other educational roles. She is grateful for the opportunity to work at the college and feels fortunate to have lived a free life in Australia.

Paula believes Vian’s journey offers hope and demonstrates the power of community connections in overcoming challenges and fostering resilience. Vian encourages newcomers to seek support from the Work & Welcome program, sharing her simple yet profound advice: “Stay positive and don’t be awkward, I now have time to live.”

TCS supports the Work & Welcome program, established by Multicultural Australia. The program provides refugees and migrants with up to ten weeks paid work experience in our schools, colleges, and office. TCS encourages schools and staff to donate to this program. Regular donations enable refugees to be welcomed into a Toowoomba Catholic Schools' community for work experience in administration, assisting student learning, cleaning, catering and grounds work.