Finding Home in a New Place

Starting again in a new country is both exciting and daunting. For many people who arrive in Canberra, the first few months are filled with new faces, systems, and routines. At Himayat, we know that belonging doesn’t happen overnight — it grows through connection, trust, and shared experience.

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The Journey Begins

When Amina first arrived from Afghanistan, she felt overwhelmed by how different everything seemed — the buses, the language, even how people greeted each other.

Through Himayat’s local peer network, Amina was paired with a volunteer who spoke her language and understood her journey. Together, they explored the city, practiced English over coffee, and learned how to navigate everyday life in Canberra.

“In the beginning, everything felt impossible — even catching the right bus or filling out a form,” Amina says. “But when someone sits with you, explains things slowly, and tells you that it’s okay not to know everything right away, it changes everything. I started to feel like I belonged here. Now I help other women who are new too, because I remember exactly how that first day felt.”

Connection Changes Everything

At its heart, Himayat is about people helping people. Whether it’s filling out forms, finding work, or simply listening, our community volunteers make everyday life a little easier.

Over time, we’ve learned that real support is not transactional — it’s relational. It’s about sharing meals, stories, and laughter. These small moments are what help newcomers build confidence and independence.

Looking Ahead

Our goal for the next year is to expand our community-led projects and offer more training opportunities for volunteer mentors. With the help of local partners, we’re building pathways that make the journey smoother for new arrivals — and more fulfilling for those who welcome them.

If you’d like to get involved, you can volunteer with Himayat or make a donation to support our growing network.