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When Zahra first connected with SisterWorks, she was searching for an opportunity to build a meaningful career in Australia, something that aligned with her skills, her interests and her hopes for a fresh start.
After expressing interest in both administrative and hospitality roles, the SisterWorks Employment Support team reached out to her with an opportunity through the Future You Program at the City of Casey. Excited by the prospect, Zahra threw herself into the process, supported every step of the way by the SisterWorks team. Together, they refined her resume, prepared her application and helped her practice for her upcoming interviews. Those sessions, she says, made all the difference. The encouragement to “talk from your heart” and “be yourself” stayed with her and gave her the calm and confidence she needed to succeed.
That preparation paid off. Zahra secured a six-month placement at the City of Casey as an Economic Development Business Support Officer, providing vital administrative and coordination support to the team. Her work involves preparing key documents, managing customer communications, monitoring the CRM, and assisting with workshops and community events alongside her mentor, Rakhee.
Working with Rakhee proved to be a defining experience. Beyond teaching her technical and professional skills, Rakhee offered mentorship, emotional support and guidance that helped Zahra find her voice and grow in confidence. The friendly and supportive environment at the City of Casey helped her thrive, building her skills in Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint, and strengthening her communication through daily interactions with colleagues and community members.
Among the many experiences in her placement, one moment stands out. At a youth event earlier this year, Zahra had the opportunity to meet people from diverse communities, careers and educational backgrounds. The experience deepened her understanding of community engagement and helped her build valuable new connections.
Much of Zahra’s professional growth, she reflects, began with SisterWorks. The Hospitality Program she completed gave her not only technical skills but also the courage to express herself in English without fear. That confidence has been a turning point, both personally and professionally.
Being part of the SisterWorks community has also shaped Zahra’s outlook in lasting ways. Surrounded by other women from migrant and refugee backgrounds, she found a sense of belonging and mutual support that helped her strengthen her communication skills and rediscover her confidence.
Now, Zahra looks ahead with clear goals. She hopes to continue developing her career in administration and community support, and is even considering volunteering one day a week at the City of Casey to keep building her skills and experience.
Her message to other women beginning their journeys is one of determination and optimism:
“Just don’t give up. When applying for any job, go for it, even if it’s small. Every bit of experience is valuable — even one day a week of volunteering can open doors.”
To the organisations that partner with SisterWorks, Zahra shares her heartfelt gratitude and a simple message: with the right support, migrant and refugee women can thrive.
“SisterWorks is my go-to place. They are always open and supportive. I’m so confident since engaging with SisterWorks.”