Nigerian-born Victor Pepple arrived in Australia in 2016, determined to build a successful life in the land down-under.
A decade on, the 40-year-old Cessnock LGA resident is one of 59 people who will become Australian citizens at Performance Arts Culture Cessnock on 23 September.
While living in Australia, Mr Pepple has established strong community connections, completed post-graduate studies in engineering, and now works as an Environmental Advisor in the mining sector.
He said he was fond of Australia's people and climate, and was excited to officially become an Australian citizen.
"I arrived with little more than a bag full of hopes and dreams – to experience and explore the land down-under, advance my academic and professional opportunities, and, hopefully, one day become an Australian citizen," said Mr Pepple.
"As a citizen, I hope to contribute responsibly to building a strong, egalitarian and inclusive Australia – one where people from different backgrounds can belong, participate and thrive.
"I'm deeply grateful for the opportunities Australia has given me, and I'm proud to call Australia home. I'm looking forward to celebrating this special milestone with the community."
The new citizens becoming Australians in Cessnock this week come from across the globe – Canada, China, Germany, Ghana, India, Iran, Kenya, Morocco, New Zealand, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, South Africa, Qatar, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States of America, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.
Cessnock City Mayor Dan Watton congratulated those becoming Australian citizens on Wednesday.
"I am looking forward to meeting Victor and the dozens of other locals who will become Australian citizens in our great city this week," said Mayor Watton.
"I know each and every one of them will be excited to continue to add to our community as they officially become part of the rich tapestry of our nation."
Click here to learn more about becoming an Australian citizen in Cessnock local government area.
