I was born in El Salvador and had a very happy childhood, but when the civil war started in the 80s, my family migrated to Miami, Florida. Six years later, we returned, but found it hard to get used to living there again, as the war had not ended. My parents then found out that we could apply to migrate to Australia, which we didn’t know much about, aside from Crocodile Dundee, a National Geographic article, and INXS and Midnight Oil videos!
I was expecting that Brisbane would be like Miami, but it was very different. It was very quiet at that time – it felt like a big country town, and everything closed so early. At first, it was a bit hard to understand the Australian accent because it was stronger back then! But we found everything welcoming, fun and exciting. We stayed just across the river from the city and we loved taking the ferry.
After I finished high school, I did a degree in Business Communication and got my first job at ABC Radio. I then had the opportunity to work in San Francisco and London for a few years. When I returned home I still had the travel bug, so I worked as a flight attendant at Qantas for seven years and travelled the world. It was a great experience, but what I most enjoyed was the charity flights that we used do, and the work we did with HIV+ orphans in South Africa, Bangkok and Manila. That confirmed that I wanted to do a Master’s degree in International Public Health. While I studied, I worked in an Aboriginal Quit Smoking Program, which felt like a really nice opportunity to give something back.
Now I’m a solo parent. It didn’t really happen by choice, more by circumstance. But at the same time, I definitely decided that I would have a baby on my own. Of course, I would love to have a partner, and am hopeful that’s still coming. But for now, it’s just him and I. And my parents of course, they help all the time. And one of my brothers and my sister live here with their kids too. We’re pretty much a little village!
I feel very blessed that I was able to be a mother at the age of 42. Even though I’ve had a very exciting, full life, this has definitely been the most amazing thing that I’ve done so far.
Luciana
El Salvador
Arrived 1989
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#migrants #migration #Elsalvador #Brisbane #Australia #inspiration #storiesnotstereotypes
She’s from El Salvador too ????☺️✨ GGabrielle Lovo
Welcome to Australia Luciana. It is so nice to hear the stories of those who choose to live in Australia, so as one female to another, best wishes for your future and that of your son.
I think it’s very brave to move to a new country and start over. I’m glad you found your home here in Australia ????????
Luciana Massi, love your story, you are an inspiration :)-and a great mum I am sure to your beautiful boy . We have something in common as I arrived in Australia too in 1989, felt the same way as you initially but happy to be here 🙂 besos , Sofia
You are amazing Luci. I still remember the moment we all cramped around the computer to push the send button, seconds before our assignment deadline.
You and your family are amazing, Luci! Very honoured to know you. I look back with fondness of our friendships formed in school. Sending you a big kiss!
Big hug my dear friend !!!!! So proud of you !!! Te quiero mucho !!!
Luce — LOVE having you as a friend. You light up everything you do X
Such a beautiful story from an even more beautiful human! So blessed to have you in my life since the uni days studying French. Love this pic too Luciana Xx
Really enjoyed reading your story beautiful. Could easily relate of course. We came in 1987 and instantly fell in love with this beautiful country with its pros and cons but would not have it any other way. :)))
Beatiful story.. I met you many years ago in Italy and still remember your beatiful smile, your love for life, your sweet kinderness to all people. You have many adventures to live and to share with your old and new family but for sure nothing will change your big heart. Ciao, Emanuele Bordoni
You are amazing Luciana, God bless you and the amazing friendship you still have with Ingy. You are a symbol of strength and determination for all who come to Australia to make a life. Love to your family xx
Lovely story Luci and a few interesting things there I didn’t know about you!! Xxx
Wonderful story Luciana Massi- just wonderful. You are a beautiful soul- knew that from the first day I met you xxx
Beautiful story Luciana – so inspiring – thank you for sharing! Hopefully many more adventures ahead ????
A little insight into the beautiful life story thus far of a truly inspirational, determined and amazing woman whom I love deeply…my ‘little sister’ Luciana!
Brings tears of joy to my eyes.
So grateful for the opportunities, life lessons, and sense of freedom living in Australia has offered to our family. Excited and hopeful for our children’s future in this great land. Thank you Australia.
Hey luciana, what a beautiful story, i remember the conversations we had in sydney when you were trying to decide your next life move , and im so happy for you that your dreams have come true.
You both looks so happy . Love and best wishes to you both
What a beautiful and positive story Luciana Massi!! I loved it ????
Beautiful story Luciana!! What an amazing life you have lived so far and I wish you and your son all the love and happiness in the future!! It was so nice to know you in the flying days xxx
Such a lovely story Luciana. Loved reading it and learnt a few new things about you! Thanks for sharing xxxx
What a beautiful story Luciana Massi you are such an inspiration and well done on your achievements sending lots of love ❤️ ????????????
I had no idea you’ve been involved in so many things. So happy for everything you’ve accomplished.
Wow how amazing , beautiful and inspirational….. what a beautiful family you have Alessandra….. I have been reading lots lately about the violence in El Salvador and one of the worlds most dangerous gangs that was formed there as a result of the civil war…. these people were not born hating but are a product of being children exposed to war and violence …… it made me realise how totally blessed we are in this country and I am so happy your beautiful family were able to make a better life for themselves and that they are still in total GRATITUDE….. ❤????????
Look how many likes and reads Luci – no surprises because you and your story are so wonderful!!!
Hey Lucci! Loved reading about your life story after I left El Salvador! If you are ever in Miami please let me know – Id love to see you and your boy. I have 4 of my own. I think they’d have a fun time! God bless you!