Arriving in Australia in late 2016 as a 17-year-old from a small refugee camp, Sahay had very limited English-speaking skills but her goal was to one day attend university. With some fear and uncertainty due to her limited language skills, lack of knowledge about the education system and financial challenges Sahay’s English improved, and with support from family, friends and teachers, she understood her options further and her confidence grew. During secondary school, Sahay enrolled in a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education through a VET program and furthered her studies once leaving school, completing a Diploma in Early Childhood Education through the government-funded TAFE program.
Through determination and further research, and after receiving an Early Childhood Scholarship, Sahay took the next step toward her lifelong dream, enrolling in the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.
“Receiving this scholarship was life-changing and came at a pivotal time in my journey toward becoming an Early Childhood Teacher. As a first-in-family university student from a refugee background, beginning university was both exciting and overwhelming. The scholarship removed a significant financial burden and provided the stability I needed to fully engage with my studies.”
The financial support enabled Sahay to purchase essential learning resources, including a laptop, which became critical for accessing online platforms and completing assessments. The financial reassurance provided by the scholarship gave Sahay the time and mental space to practice, seek support, and develop essential academic skills to help her succeed. More than financial assistance, the scholarship empowered Sahay to persist, grow, and strengthen her commitment to becoming an Early Childhood Teacher who values equity, inclusion and support for all learners.
As a recipient of the scholarship, Sahay gained skills and experiences that significantly supported her growth as an educator. During her first two years as an Early Childhood Teacher, Sahay has sought opportunities to enrich children’s learning while growing as an educator.
While Sahay is still learning, seeking advice and professional development has deepened her understanding and highlighted the importance of reflective, culturally responsive practice. Participating in the End-to-End Career Support program and ongoing professional learning has reinforced her belief in lifelong learning and intentional growth as an educator.
Sahay is currently working full-time as an Early Childhood Teacher and thoroughly enjoys her role. The Scholarship not only gave her the opportunity, it inspired her to continue learning so that she can offer even greater support to children, families and colleagues.
“The scholarship has reinforced my commitment to the profession and empowered me to aim higher, dream bigger and contribute meaningfully to the lives of children and the wider early childhood community.”