MEET WAREENA
At just 24 years old, Wareena has already overcome more challenges many won’t face in a lifetime. Originally from Iraq, Wareena’s life took a dramatic turn when her family was forced to flee due to escalating threats against their Christian faith. After a difficult period of displacement in Jordan, marked by financial hardship and limited access to education, Wareena and her family resettled in Australia, where they began to rebuild their lives.
The psychological and emotional toll of her displacement, combined with the financial constraints her family endured, created significant barriers to Wareena’s well-being. However, her determination to overcome these hardships was evident as she pursued new opportunities in her adopted country.
Upon arriving in Australia, Wareena initially pursued a career in nursing, completing a Certificate IV in Individual Support and studying English. However, she soon realised that the healthcare field posed challenges that were difficult to reconcile with her traditional values and personal goals. After careful consideration and support from her family, Wareena decided to follow a different path, one that allowed her to express her creativity and passion—beauty therapy.
With the guidance of WCIG’s Transition to Work program, Wareena participated in programs designed to help young people like her gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed. Through the Youth Central Training Café Program offered by Hume City Council, she gained valuable experience in customer service, teamwork, and even barista training. This hands-on experience not only boosted her confidence but also prepared her for the professional world.
Encouraged by her employment consultant, Perla, who played a key role in helping her navigate her career transition, Wareena enrolled in a Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy at Endota Wellness College. Here, she is honing her skills and pursuing a career that brings her both fulfillment and a sense of empowerment. Wareena’s passion for beauty therapy has driven her to excel, and she remains committed to her studies, with the ultimate goal of running her own beauty salon one day.
Despite the cultural and traditional constraints, she faced, Wareena’s story is one of resilience, determination, and adaptability. She has embraced every opportunity to grow, from her early work in customer service to her current studies in beauty therapy. Her journey highlights the power of perseverance and the importance of community support in helping young people rebuild their lives after displacement.
Now living with her family in stable accommodation and continuing her education, Wareena serves as an inspiration to others in her community. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. As she moves forward in her studies and career, Wareena remains focused on her future, determined to turn her challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Her journey is far from over, but with each step, Wareena continues to break down barriers, inspiring others to do the same.
Wareena, Transition to Work participant, Craigieburn
