Nirmala Rita Nadia grew up in Indonesia and first visited Australia on holiday in 2000.
“My life was not easy in my country because I chose to be an idealist, a perfectionist, and to live in the right way. I always did my work with heart.”
As a single mother from a Muslim family, she had to face many social judgments, and it was not easy to live with her daughter in Indonesia.
In Indonesia, Nadia worked as a journalist but had to quit her job and became a renovating builder, running her own business in this field for more than 15 years.
She and her daughter returned to Australia in 2023 to live with Nadia’s partner but unfortunately faced domestic violence. The Women’s and Girls’ Emergency Centre (WAGEC) helped and supported them a lot, providing a safe house and guiding them towards their goals.
“I am always optimistic in my life because I hold on to my principles – to always follow the right path and do my best.”
These challenges, Nadia never lost her smile or her passion for helping others.
“I wanted a fresh start and I wanted to study. My case manager from WAGEC suggested a course at Macquarie Community College. I enrolled in CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) because I always loved helping people.”
A New Path at Macquarie Community College
At Macquarie Community College Nadia discovered the power of learning in a supportive environment. She enjoys the balance of theory and hands-on practice while learning aged care and disability course. English sometimes makes theory harder, but she thrives in practical classes.
“I am a doer. I love practicing and feeling the experience,” she says.
During training in the Blacktown campus aged care and disability practical room, Nadia feels motivated to learn every day. Nadia believes Macquarie Community College is the best place to study.
“I would recommend MCC to everyone 100%,” she says proudly.
Her trainer Laila inspires her with real-life scenarios and passionate teaching.
“She is a real professional,” Nadia explains. “She built our class as a family. We help each other, sharing our thoughts and ideas. The connection is so good.”
One special memory for Nadia was a practical class on cultural diversity. Each student brought a dish from their own culture, creating a table full of international flavours.
“We have each other,” Nadia smiles. “This class feels like family.”
Building Skills for the Future Career in Aged Care
Through her course, Nadia learned to care for seniors and people with disabilities with dignity and respect. She now understands how important it is to give people a sense of belonging.
Once she graduates, Nadia plans to work in an aged care facility. She wants to gain more experience, then continue to CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support. She also hopes to complete CPR and First Aid training with MCC.
Her advice to future students is clear:
“If you do not have the passion to care, do not do this. You need heart to work in aged care sector.”
The Macquarie Community College team is proud of Nadia’s courage, determination, and compassion. We wish her every success in her studies and future career in aged care.