Something for Everyone – the theme for National Volunteer Week that recognises the 11 per cent of Ipswich residents who have volunteered throughout the region at some time in their lives.
Local Sophya Hem is a great example of true volunteerism, helping to change the lives of migrants and residents of our greatly multicultural city.
Ms Hem assists with the Volunteer Tutor Scheme offered by TAFE Queensland as part of the Australian Government-funded Adult Migrant English Program.
Ms Hem said the role gave her great pride.
After immigrating from Cambodia in 2018, she began her settlement journey as an AMEP student at TAFE Queensland’s Inala campus.
“It was a full-circle moment coming back and helping students,” Ms Hem said.
“Everything was so different when I arrived in Australia. The lifestyle, the culture, the language.
“I loved learning about Australian culture, and I’m so thrilled to now be on the other side of that, helping students of my own.”
The AMEP is a free service that for more than 75 years has helped over two million eligible migrants with low English levels to improve their language skills and settle into Australia.
Amani Gilpin, one of TAFE Queensland’s Volunteer Tutor Coordinators, said volunteers received free training and were matched to AMEP students to support them in their English language learning and help them integrate better into Australian life.
“Our volunteer tutors support our students to continue their English learning in a flexible landscape,” Amani said.
“Students can meet with their tutors at times and locations that are convenient to them – often a local coffee shop, library, or even in the student’s home. It’s a great way to promote continued learning while recognising our students’ day-to-day responsibilities, such as work or raising children.”
The innovative program supports female AMEP students with the goal of fostering self-confidence, independence, and career awareness.
In addition to English literacy, the course focuses on mental and physical wellbeing, digital skills, and career awareness.
