By Rana Jaiju, volunteer at CEH’s Multicultural Health & Support Service (MHSS)
When I first started volunteering with MHSS, I never imagined that what I thought would be a short-term opportunity would become such a rewarding journey. Like many newcomers to Australia, my initial motivation was simple—I wanted to gain Australian work experience, something we are often told is essential to finding employment. However, what kept me there for 18 months was so much more than that. From the very beginning, I was welcomed and supported by the team who made me feel like I truly belonged. They invested in my development, provided valuable training, and gave me opportunities to grow professionally. I started by shadowing Aditi (Sharma, MHSS Community Engagement Officer), whose guidance, encouragement, and mentorship gave me the confidence to gradually take on more responsibility. In no time, I was building relationships with community organisations, engaging with diverse groups, and independently delivering health education sessions.
I am from Iraq. Being bilingual (Arabic and English) and having a medical background became a strength in this role. It allowed me to connect with Arabic-speaking communities in a way that was both meaningful and effective. Most of the sessions I delivered were in Arabic, enabling participants to understand important health information without the barriers that often exist when relying on interpreters. Speaking the same language was only part of the connection—I also shared their cultural background, which helped me build trust and discuss sensitive topics that might otherwise have been difficult to address.
These sessions had a powerful impact, not only from a health promotion perspective but also from a community empowerment perspective. In the words of a participant: “It’s empowering for communities from refugee and immigrant backgrounds to see someone from their own community working in such a role with a well-respected organisation.” Her words reminded me that I was doing more than delivering health education: I was representing possibility, encouraging others to believe in themselves, and showing that they could build meaningful lives and make valuable contributions to Australian society.
Looking back, volunteering with MHSS has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my professional life. It expanded my networks, strengthened my professional skills, and gave me a deep sense of purpose, knowing that I was able to make a positive difference in the lives of others while also growing personally and professionally. What began as a search for Australian experience became a journey of connection, service, empowerment, and lasting impact.
