Jade unlocking the keys to confidence

For Jade Poon moving to Australia meant moving to a country which celebrates a relaxed, outdoors lifestyle and multicultural society.

“Australia is a multicultural environment. So, we come to Australia to live. “There are many outdoor activities in Australia like campaign and fishing. My children can join the swimming team, the basketball team.” I like to do outdoor activities,” Jade said.

Born in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, Jade had lived in Hong Kong for over 10 years before making the decision with her husband to move to Australia earlier this year.

“I was born in Guangzhou in China, but I have lived in Hong Kong for more than 10 years, and I moved to Australia around eight months ago, in February,” Jade said.

Moving to a different country can present many challenges. For Jade and her family, these challenges were worsened when Jade’s husband left for Hong Kong on a return ticket to Australia, only to be denied entry back to his adopted country as the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

“I came to Darwin just before they stopped the borders.”

“My husband is on a working visa, but he is still in Hong Kong. When we came here (to Darwin) he had to go back to Hong Kong for work but then the borders closed so he is back in Hong Kong,”

“It is difficult for me. I speak to him on the phone every day. I don’t know when he can come back.”

Despite this, Jade continued her desire to learn English and began attending STEPS AMEP classes.

“I went to STEPS because I know that STEPS will provide the right courses so we can adapt to life here as soon as possible.” I have studied at STEPS for 10 weeks.”

“I feel my listening is better and I speak more now. I have a little bit more confidence. I think studying here is very relaxing. The teachers and the classmates are very friendly.”

Learning English at STEPS AMEP is the first step for Jade realising her working dream.

“I am interested in baking. “When I finish learning the language, I may study some courses so I can work in the bakery.”

As Jade continues her journey, she offers up some sound advice for others looking to make the move to Australia.

“Be brave and enjoy life in Australia. People like and respect each other in Australia. Hong Kong and Australia are different. Hong Kong people always work and are very busy. It’s a different environment, Australia is full of relaxing activities and people always enjoy life.”

If you or someone you know is interested in learning English language skills, STEPS AMEP can help. We have classes in Alice Springs, Palmerston and Casuarina. Call 08 8950 7600 to find out more about classes in Alice Springs and 1300 585 868 for classes in Palmerston and Casuarina.

The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.