Thushalini’s Journey: From Sri Lanka to a Bright Future in Australia
Thushalini arrived in Australia in April 2024, bringing with her a strong educational foundation from Sri Lanka, where she completed school, university, and earned a Certificate in Speech. Eager to build a new life, her first goal was to strengthen her English skills to communicate more confidently and explore study options that would help her find meaningful work in her new home.
In October 2024, she began her English language journey with AMEP classes at Wyndham Community and Education Centre. By Term 2 of 2025, she had enthusiastically enrolled in the Settlement Language Pathways to Employment and Training (SLPET) course, keen to learn more about job applications and workplace expectations in Australia.
Thushalini embraced the SLPET experience wholeheartedly. Her placement at a childcare centre was a turning point—boosting her confidence and helping her see a clear path forward. Today, she’s working as a casual kitchen assistant at the same centre and has taken another exciting step by enrolling in the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care at Wyndham CEC.
Reflecting on her journey, Thushalini shared:
AMEP helped me improve my English reading, writing, and speaking skills. It gave me the confidence to talk to others at work and understand my responsibilities. Through SLPET, I learned about Australian work culture, workplace safety, and how to prepare for real job situations. These classes supported me a lot before I started my childcare placement. I feel thankful for the support from my teachers and friends. Now, I feel ready to take the next step and follow my dream of working with children.
Thushalini’s story is a wonderful example of how determination, education, and community support can open doors to new opportunities and a fulfilling career.