Empowering Voices, Sharing Stories

"I never thought I would finish my studies. As a mother juggling so many responsibilities, pursuing my education always felt like an impossible dream. There were so many moments when I was ready to give up—overwhelmed by family duties, financial challenges, and a lack of confidence in myself. I had all but accepted that my dreams of completing my studies would never come true. 

Then I met Samia. Her belief in me was unwavering, and with her support, everything changed. She provided guidance, encouragement, and practical help, pushing me forward when I didn’t think I could take another step. Whether it was helping me balance my time or reminding me of my own strength, Samia was there every step of the way. 

Because of her, I not only completed my studies but also realized that I am capable of so much more than I ever imagined. Today, my dream has become a reality, and I am so proud of what I’ve accomplished. Without Samia’s support and courage, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today. She gave me the strength to believe in myself again, and for that, I will always be grateful." 

"Before I joined the self-development program at COAW, I was struggling to find direction in my life. I felt stuck, unsure of how to move forward, and overwhelmed by the challenges I was facing. I didn’t know how to prioritise myself or work on my personal growth—everything seemed focused on just surviving day to day. 

CAW’s self-development program changed that. From the very first session, I was encouraged to think about my goals, my passions, and my strengths. The program gave me tools to rebuild my confidence and skills, not just as a woman but as an individual who has the power to shape her future. Each session was eye-opening, helping me see my potential and reminding me that I am capable of more than I ever imagined. 

What made the biggest impact on me was the support and encouragement from the COAW team and the other women in the program. We all came with our own stories, but through this journey, we grew together. I’ve learned to set goals, manage my time, and most importantly, believe in myself again. I’ve taken steps toward starting my own small business, something I never thought was possible before this program. 

COAW’s self-development program has been life-changing for me. It gave me the skills and confidence to move forward and the belief that I can create a better future for myself and my family. I’m incredibly grateful for this experience and the growth it’s brought into my life." 

"When I first came to COAW, I felt lost and alone. I didn’t know how to talk about the things I was going through or where to find the support I needed. But joining one of the women’s groups at COAW changed everything. From the very first meeting, I felt a sense of belonging. The women in the group came from different backgrounds and experiences, but a lot of similarity, we all shared a deep understanding of each other's struggles.  

Being in that room, surrounded by women who were supportive and non-judgmental, gave me the strength to open up. We shared our stories, our fears, and our hopes, and I realised I wasn’t alone in my journey. The group became a lifeline for me—it was a safe space where I could heal and grow. 

Through COAW's group sessions, I’ve found not only support but also friendship and empowerment. The connections I’ve made with these women have helped me regain my confidence and find the courage to move forward in my life. I’m forever grateful to COAW for creating a space where women like me can come together, support each other, and rebuild our lives." 

"I was living a nightmare. As a single mother with six children, we were crammed into a tiny two-bedroom motel room. It wasn’t just uncomfortable; it was heartbreaking. My kids had no space to play or study, and every day felt like a struggle to survive. I tried everything—reaching out to housing services, welfare agencies, anyone who could help—but nothing changed. We were stuck, and I felt utterly hopeless. 

Then, I met Samia. Her advocacy completely turned things around for us. She fought for us, spoke to the right people, and made sure our situation was seen and heard. Samia didn’t just give me hope; she gave me the help we needed. Without her, my five children and I would still be living in that cramped motel room. 

Thanks to her tireless efforts, we now have a proper home where my kids can finally feel safe and settled. Words can’t express the gratitude I feel. Samia’s compassion and determination changed our lives, and I will always be thankful for the new beginning she helped us find." 

"I can’t put into words how much the Center for Advancing Women’s Services has transformed my life. As a single mom of six children, it’s been a constant struggle to balance life, care for my kids, and manage our finances. Before I found the center, I felt like I was drowning, always stressed and unsure of where to turn. 

The Center became my lifeline. They offered more than just support – they provided me with tools to succeed. I took part in their job training programs and attended workshops on financial literacy and career development, which gave me the confidence to apply for better jobs. They also connected me with childcare options, so I didn’t have to worry about leaving my kids alone while I worked. 

But beyond the practical help, it was the emotional support that meant the most. My sister at the center welcomed me with open arms. I never felt judged for my circumstances, and I met so many other moms who were going through similar struggles. Together, we cried, shared our experiences, lifted each other up, and found hope. 

Because of the Center for Advancing Women, I was able to find stable employment and create a better future for my kids. I’m forever grateful for the opportunities and encouragement they provided me during some of the most challenging times in my life." 

"When I came to this country as a bride, I left everything behind—my family, my friends, and my entire support system. I thought I was starting a new chapter filled with happiness, but soon after, my life became a nightmare. The emotional and physical abuse I experienced made me feel trapped, but what hurt even more was the loneliness. I had no one to turn to. Without family nearby or friends to confide in, I felt completely isolated, like I didn’t exist. 

I didn’t know where to seek help. I didn’t even know where to begin. Then, a lady in the child care told me about Samia and gave me her number for the first time since I came to this country, I felt safe after talking to her. The women at COAW welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like I belonged somewhere. They understood my fears, my culture, and my struggle of being a young bride in a foreign place with no one to rely on. 

CAW provided me with the emotional support I so desperately needed. They helped me understand my rights and guided me through the process of getting help for the abuse I was suffering. They connected me with legal aid and counselling, and they even helped me build a new support network. But what meant the most to me was the feeling of not being alone anymore. I had finally found a community that stood by me. 

Thanks to CAW, I was able to find safety and start rebuilding my life. They gave me the strength to walk away from an abusive marriage and start over, knowing I had people who cared about me. I will forever be grateful for the love and support I found at COAW." 

"As a mother, watching my daughter struggle with her life and not leaving the house for over 2 year was heartbreaking. I wanted to do everything I could to help her, but it seemed like every service we engaged with had a different approach. We were constantly being referred to new specialists and programs, and instead of finding clarity, it only created more confusion and stress. It felt like we were drowning in paperwork and appointments, with no one truly understanding our situation or culture. 

Then, I was connected with the Center for Advancing Women (COAW), and everything changed. For the first time, I felt understood. The team at COAW came from a similar cultural background, and they instantly recognised the unique challenges we were facing. They didn’t just treat my daughter as another case; they saw us as a family in need of support. 

COAW helped us navigate the complex network of services and ensured we were connected to the right mental health resources. They coordinated everything, which reduced the overwhelming stress we had been feeling for so long. But more than that, they were there for me emotionally, providing guidance and understanding without judgment. 

Having people from the same background who truly understood our needs made all the difference. I no longer felt isolated or overwhelmed, and my daughter began to make real progress with the right support in place. COAW not only helped my daughter but gave me the strength and clarity I needed to be the best support for her. I will always be grateful for their compassion and expertise." 

"After enduring years of emotional and physical abuse, I was desperate to find a way out. But instead of being treated as the victim, an intervention order was placed against me due to false accusations made by my abuser. This made everything so much harder. I couldn’t access domestic violence services, and Legal Aid turned me away, telling me they couldn’t assist me because of the order. I felt completely trapped – the system that was supposed to protect me had failed. 

That’s when I discovered the Center for Advancing Women’s Services (COAW). From the moment I explained my situation, they didn’t judge me. They understood how abusers manipulate the legal system to maintain control, and they gave me the support I’d been searching for. The staff at CAW took the time to listen and connect me with a lawyer who could help challenge the intervention order and represent my side of the story. 

They didn’t just provide legal help – they stood by me emotionally, offering counseling and a safe space where I could process everything I had been through. They also attended court with me, ensuring I didn’t feel alone during one of the most difficult times of my life.  

COAW gave me hope when everyone else turned their back on me. Without their unwavering support, I don’t know how I would’ve made it through. They believed in me when no one else did, and thanks to them, I’m now able to rebuild my life with strength and dignity." 

"I came to Australia full of hope, but that hope quickly faded when I became trapped in an abusive marriage. The violence and control I endured were unbearable, but when I tried to seek help, I found that my visa status was a major barrier. Every domestic violence service I reached out to either turned me away or told me they couldn’t assist because of my visiting visa. I felt abandoned and completely alone in a foreign country. 

That all changed when I meet Samia from the Center for Advancing Women (CAW). From the first moment I met with Samia and the team, I was treated with respect and compassion. They never made me feel like my race or visa status was a reason not to help. Instead, they guided me through every step of the process. They helped me understand my rights as a migrant woman and provided the support I needed. 

CAW did more than just listen – they took action. They re-wrote my case and connected me with a lawyer, supported me through the legal process, and even attended court with me. Their presence gave me the strength I needed to stand up to my abuser. And because of Samia’s tireless efforts, I was able to apply for and receive my Permanent Residency (PR), something I never thought possible. 

Without COAW, I would still be stuck in fear and uncertainty. They gave me the courage to rebuild my life and the security of knowing I could stay in Australia without living in fear. I’ll always be grateful for the support they provided and for helping me achieve the freedom I dreamed of." Know, I am one of the volunteer at the COAW  

"I spent years trapped in an abusive relationship, feeling powerless and afraid. When I finally found the courage to leave, I thought help would be easy to find – but I was wrong. I reached out to domestic violence services and Legal Aid, hoping they could guide me, but I kept hitting walls. The waiting lists were endless, and I was constantly told I didn’t meet the criteria for immediate support. Every door I knocked on was closed, and I started losing hope. 

Then, I was told about Samia from the Center for Advancing Women, and it changed everything. From the moment I walked through their doors, I was listened to, believed and understood. They didn’t turn me away or make me feel like my situation wasn’t urgent enough. The staff took the time to understand my needs and provided immediate assistance, from advice to emotional support. 

They connected me with a lawyer who helped me navigate the complex legal system, something I couldn’t get from Legal Aid. For the first time, I felt like I had someone fighting for me. COAW also offered counseling for me and my children.   

Without the Center, I don’t know where I’d be today. They gave me the tools to rebuild my life and the confidence to stand up for myself. I’ll forever be grateful to COAW for stepping in when no one else would and for giving me the support I so desperately needed to start over."