The first time the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, Paiz Ahmad was forced to abandon her Year 8 studies. She eventually returned to the classroom and completed Year 12 before the regime took power again.

“For women in Afghanistan, life is so hard. They can’t go anywhere, they only stay at home. My sisters, my sisters’ children, my friends – they can’t study, they can’t go shopping alone, they can’t go anywhere. They don’t have much to tell me when I talk with them,” Paiz said.

When her husband was granted a family visa to pursue his doctorate in Australia, it felt as though Paiz and her five children finally had a chance to rebuild their lives.

Adapting to life in Australia was challenging at first. Everything felt unfamiliar and the family had to adjust to a new language, new culture and a completely new environment. With support from IntoJobs (part of the IntoWork Group), Paiz steadily grew in confidence; improving her English and completing her diploma in early education. She now works four days a week at an early learning centre in Hampton Park.

“I’m so proud of myself that I can stand on my feet and do what I need for my children. I can also help my father. He lives in Afghanistan and is retired. I’m the only one who can support him and that’s really good for me. I feel so happy when I think about these things.”

What brings Paiz the greatest joy is watching her children embrace the new opportunities available to them. Two of her sons are now in their final year at university and all five have built strong networks and are thriving in their Australian life.

IntoJobs Employment Consultant, Firdause Wilson, is proud to see how far Paiz has come. “Adjusting to such a different way of life has not been easy, especially with no employment history or tertiary study behind her. But she has worked incredibly hard and is now a shining example for other women from diverse cultural backgrounds,” Firdause said.

While Paiz juggles work, school pick-ups, and life as a mother of five, she’s looking forward to moving into full-time work next year as a Room Leader at the centre. She stays closely connected to her family back home and remains hopeful that one day they will be reunited in Australia.

“We have put a case together but so far they have been rejected. I will keep trying. My family is so happy here and grateful for what we have. I hope one day my sisters and their children will have the same opportunities that we have.”