Western Sydney University graduate John Akway Cham is using his education and lived experience to make a positive impact in the world, helping build stronger and more inclusive communities.
Taking to the graduation stage at the Parramatta South campus – his home campus – the Bachelor of Humanitarian and Development Studies graduate reflected on his time at university and the journey that led him here.
John's decision to pursue humanitarian and development studies was shaped by his background as a former refugee and a strong desire to contribute to positive change.
During his studies, he worked as a Multicultural Service Officer in Western Sydney for Settlement Services International (SSI), building on other roles he has held as a support worker and his background in primary teaching in Kenya.
John is now working with Anglicare with a multicultural men's group, and as a casual multicultural support officer with SSI in Coffs Harbour, after relocating to the area.
"I am proud to achieve this milestone of graduating. Like many other refugees, every one of us has dreams, however, actualising those dreams has never been easy. I feel like I am one among the lucky ones, and I have always made good use of my opportunities to come this far," he said.
Graduation for John represents much more than academic success, it is also an opportunity to inspire others.
"Crossing the graduation stage will not only be significant for myself and my family, for this achievement, but it will also be an inspiration to many young men and women, especially refugees who have dreams but never had the opportunity or confidence to work towards achieving those dreams."
Towards the end of 2021, he decided to join Western Sydney University, looking for a course that would provide a pathway to becoming a humanitarian aid worker and nurture his passion for social and development issues and justice, the fundamental foundations of humanitarian work.
He completed a Diploma in Social Science at the University and enrolled in the Bachelor of Humanitarian and Development Studies.
"Having lived in a refugee camp in Kenya, where humanitarian workers played a vital role in supporting refugees and providing refugees with basic needs, and having benefited from the work and dedication of many humanitarian workers, I made a decision that when I got an opportunity to get into humanitarian work, I would do it to make a positive impact and contribute my part towards making the world a better place."
During his studies, he was the proud recipient of the John Mac Foundation Scholarship, which had a significant impact on both his academic and personal journey. The John Mac Foundation works to educate and empower refugees and people whose lives have been interrupted by war.
"Academically, the scholarship meant I was able to focus on my studies with less financial pressure and as a result, my academic performance has been satisfying to me. Personally, the scholarship has been a source of motivation and encouragement that enabled me to work harder."
"It has also shaped my thinking that no matter what we go through in our lives, there are people out there who really care for vulnerable groups, and giving back to the community is the right thing to do in order to turn the dreams of less advantaged individuals into reality."
Hugh Riminton, Chair, John Mac Foundation, offered his congratulations to John on his achievements.
"We are tremendously proud to be associated with John. He is an extraordinary young Australian. And we credit our founder, former child soldier and refugee Deng Thiak Adut, who knows intimately how a Western Sydney University education provides a bridge into a new life," said Mr Riminton.
John, a former Mt Druitt resident, said his experience at Western Sydney University has not only enriched his knowledge and skills, but it has also opened many doors through friendship and networking.
"The learning environment has been inclusive and conducive, with a lot of support in place. I joined Western Sydney University with little confidence, however, in my second semester, I was fully confident in what I was doing."
"Another highlight was the opportunity of participating in a student exchange program in Indonesia, where I experienced working on community development in a rural village in Yogyakarta. This experience helped me gain a better understanding of different cultures and develop practical skills and confidence."
Looking ahead, he aspires to work with a humanitarian organisation to apply the knowledge and skills that he has gained, and to make an impact in the community.
"My long-term goal would be to become a voice for the voiceless and encourage young people to pursue education because I believe in the transformation of education."
