Refugee university scholarship graduate establishes financial independence in Fiji
UNHCR, 2024
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Context:
This article profiles Sebastian and his wife, Inakka, who rebuilt their lives in Fiji after arriving as refugees. As the first recipient of the Pacific Higher Education Scholarship, Sebastian completed a Diploma of Accounting from the University of the South Pacific in 2023, securing full-time work as an accountant and achieving financial independence. Inspired by her husband’s success, Inakka is now studying Beauty Therapy and Hairdressing at Fiji National University. Their story illustrates the transformative impact of education and community support, reinforcing UNHCR Australia’s commitment to empowering displaced people through access to higher learning and livelihoods.
My role:
Researcher, photographer, writer, editor – responsible for researching Sebastian’s journey, travelling to Fiji to conduct in person interviews, capturing on-site photography, shaping the narrative, and publishing digital assets.
From Child Soldier to Criminal Lawyer
UNHCR, 2023
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This story traces Deng Thiak Adut’s incredible journey from being forced to fight as a child soldier at just six years old, to becoming a criminal lawyer in Sydney. After enduring years of unimaginable hardship, his brother bravely smuggled him out of the army, giving him a chance at a new life. Deng spent time in refugee camps in Kenya before resettling in Australia. His story is a powerful reminder of resilience and transformation, and it contributes to UNHCR’s mission to humanise displacement and inspire empathy and support for refugees worldwide.
My Role:
Writer, editor, researcher, and photographer – responsible for researching, reaching out to and interviewing Deng, conducting on-site photography, shaping the narrative, and finalising the story in collaboration with UNHCR’s communications team. I also managed the online publication of the article and developed the social media package for Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn. As part of this project, I also guided a UNHCR intern through the storytelling process, providing editorial support and mentorship throughout.
“I think refugees are a testament to the strength and goodness of the human spirit”
UNHCR, 2022
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Context:
This article features Golriz Ghahraman, New Zealand’s first refugee Member of Parliament, reflecting on how her refugee background has influenced her political journey. Ghahraman discusses the challenges and motivations that stem from her experiences as a refugee, offering a personal perspective on the resilience and contributions of displaced individuals. The piece contributes to UNHCR’s global communications efforts to humanise displacement and foster empathy and support for refugees.
My Role:
Writer, editor, and researcher – responsible for researching, establishing contact and conducting interviews, shaping the narrative, and finalising the story in collaboration with UNHCR’s communications team. I also managed the online publication and developed the social media package for Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn.
“It’s just the start of my journey”
UNHCR, 2023
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Context:
This article features Asif Sultani, an Afghan athlete and refugee activist living in Australia, who shares his inspiring journey of overcoming defeat and building resilience. As a high-profile supporter of UNHCR, Asif’s story highlights the strength and determination of refugees across the Asia Pacific region. The piece is part of the Asia Pacific Refugee Voices series, which aims to amplify refugee perspectives and foster greater understanding and solidarity.
My role:
Writer, editor, researcher – I led the development of Asif’s story from initial interview to final publication, supporting him to share his journey authentically and in his own voice. After conducting the interview, I drafted the first version of the piece using the transcript, weaving in contextual details to shape a clear and compelling narrative. I worked closely with Asif throughout the editing process to ensure the final story reflected his message with accuracy and respect. I also managed the online publication and created the social media package for Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
This piece launched Asif’s official role as a UNHCR high profile supporter (the first and only in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific). I served as Asif’s primary focal point, leading his recruitment and managing all communications and engagement.
‘I’ve been there. I’ve been in your shoes, just like you.’
UNHCR, 2021
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Context:
Presented in a Q&A format, this transcript captures Ibrahim Omer’s own words as he recalls life in Eritrea and Sudan, his work as an UNHCR interpreter, and the experiences that led him to become New Zealand’s first African Member of Parliament. The interview foregrounds his insights on resilience, opportunity, and leadership, offering readers an unfiltered look at a remarkable personal journey.
My role:
Researcher and writer – I originated the story pitch, conducted comprehensive background research, and drafted the interview questions. When UNHCR’s Regional Representative requested to conduct the interview personally, I facilitated their meeting, managed all logistics, and sourced accompanying images. I then edited and finalised the Q&A transcript in collaboration with the global communications team.
UNHCR pledges greater support for Fiji
UNHCR, 2020
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My role:
Writer – I drafted the story on short turnaround, drawing from field notes, media briefings, and leadership messaging, with input from the Pacific operations team.
Context:
Published following the Regional Representative’s visit to Suva, this piece highlights UNHCR’s renewed partnership with Fiji to strengthen asylum systems and build long-term resilience in the Pacific.