We introduce Nyakuoth in our Autumn Appeal

Nyakuoth and her husband and baby son came to Australia as refugees in 2004 from South Sudan. They were grateful to be in a safe and peaceful country. But Nyakuoth had no family here and didn’t speak English, and the Melbourne suburbs were so different from the home she’d left behind.

As her own family grew, Nyakuoth worried for her children’s future. Would they be accepted? How would they thrive at school when they didn't speak English at home?

Nyakuoth connected with one of our BSL education programs – the Homework Club - which helps families like hers to overcome disadvantage and flourish in their education.

“I found it difficult because I didn't know anyone. It was a totally different environment, the barrier of language. Leaving your family behind makes it hard to raise children. One of the ladies has become my friend, she's a sister to me and I know her through the BSL program.”

BSL’s education programs are for children who have experienced educational disruption, or those that just need a bit of extra support. Through the Homework Club, young people build the literacy, numeracy, and language skills they need to fully take part in the classroom and in the playground at school and realise their dreams for the future.

Their parents can also access support services and build social connections that help them feel understood and become a part of the broader Australian community. Nyakuoth says:

“Homework Club is like our home, a second home, we met everyone there. It was a place we were introduced to many families in this area. It was an amazing experience meeting everyone, being included and knowing that there are people there to help you or hear you when you want to talk to them. We all connected, and the kids made friends too.”

BSL knows when families have access to education programs, and parents are engaged and empowered to be involved in their children’s education, children feel safer and more connected at school. In turn, both parents and their children have higher expectations for their academic achievement.

When you give a gift to BSL you are helping to ensure that all families have access to the support they need to build better lives for themselves.
Please give a gift today!