(3/3) My Dad always wanted me to be a doctor, regardless of the fact that I couldn’t stand the sight of blood! But I’m afraid that I didn’t meet his expectations because I did Arts instead! Later, I transferred to Law, followed by a Masters in Conflict Resolution. Now I work for the Financial Ombudsman Service.
I was also recently elected as the Melbourne representative of a consultative body that reports the concerns of Portuguese communities living abroad back to the Portuguese government. We also assist with initiatives that address these concerns. I’ve been involved in community work since I was 17. I really enjoy it – it’s a way to keep in touch with my culture, and the Portuguese community here is a little piece of my first home.
I think my parents are proud of me. My father was definitely proud when he came to my graduations, but I think he’d still prefer it if I was a doctor!
They’re still working hard. My mum works 7 days a week – she doesn’t know any other way. I’d like them to stop and enjoy life and do all the things they’ve wanted to do in their lives but haven’t been able to. Both my brother and I know that if they hadn’t come here, our lives would have been very different, and we’re so grateful for the sacrifices they made.
This is such a wonderful country. Whenever my parents and I hear someone criticise it, we’re just not interested. Australia has looked after us, and we’re so thankful for that.
Silvia
Portugal
Arrived 1990
If you have already made a donation, thank you, thank you, thank you! I am so grateful. If you would like to donate towards this project, please visit: www.youcaring.com/newhumansofaustralia
#migrants #migration #Australia #Australianstory #Australianstories
Thank you for your inspiring story Silvia.
You’ve grounded me. Thank you. Australia is a beautiful country and we are blessed to share this sacred land. 🙂
You are amazing Silvia as is your whole family… good luck in the future
Heartfelt thanks to your Mum & Dad.
Thank you for sharing your and your family’s story, and for your valuable contribution to our community
Stephanie Barbs
I’m so glad you all came here. Welcome to our lovely country. I’ve been to yours too, many times and it’s also very beautiful.
We are very lucky to have you all here ❤️
“Whenever my parents and I hear someone criticise it, we’re just not interested. Australia has looked after us, and we’re so thankful for that.” We can always see something wrong in anything, but we should never forget the good things about anything. Very Powerful. Thanks for sharing!
What a great story. Australia is lucky to have such hard working people who give so much.
Welcome
Thank for for sharing your story, Silvia, and for reminding me to never take for granted all the blessings I have because I live in this wonderful country. 🙂
Australia IS a wonderful country it has looked after my family too! We are also very grateful! Aussie Aussie Aussie oi oi oi
yes I feel the same. We can improvr things. It is one of the best places to live. Only thing is miss the family and friends. Good on you .
I’ve tried to make a small donation to your project twice now but it won’t work. Perhaps others are having similar issues
Your parents remind me so much of my own. Though they migrated from Portugal in 1974 and my brother and I were born here, they still hold the same work ethic in their 70s. After all the sacrifices they made coming to Australia to give us a better life I want them to enjoy the fruits of their labour. It is just not in their nature. Such strong values ☺