Four former TAFE NSW English language students have returned to the Armidale classroom where their Australian journeys began, sharing stories of resilience, education and employment with current learners.
The graduates visited TAFE NSW Armidale on Today to speak with students completing a Certificate III in English as an Additional Language through the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP).
The visit followed Adult Learners Week, held from September 1-8, and highlighted the achievements of members of Armidale’s growing Ezidi and Congolese refugee communities.
Graduates spoke about settling in Australia and how improving their English helped them gain confidence, continue their education and find employment.
TAFE NSW Armidale Foundation Skills teacher Jinliang Sun, known as Goldie, said the event demonstrated the impact of lifelong learning.
“These graduates are strong examples of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and education,” she said.
“By sharing their experiences with current students, they’re showing what’s possible and helping build confidence in learners who are at the beginning of their own journeys.”
Armidale is home to a growing Ezidi community of more than 600 people.
TAFE NSW has delivered the federally funded AMEP to nine cohorts in Armidale over several years, with about nine classes being supported this year.
Former student Mia Zheng said the program helped give her the confidence to pursue further study and employment.
“Learning English at TAFE NSW opened many doors for me. It gave me confidence to communicate with others, continue my studies, and become more independent in everyday life. I’m now studying a Diploma of Nursing at TAFE NSW and working as a Support Worker with Homecare for patients who have been discharged from hospital,” Zheng said.
“Returning to speak with current students today was special, because I remember how challenging it can feel when you’re learning a new language. I wanted them to know that every step forward matters, and their hard work will create opportunities for the future.”
Fellow graduate Shadrack Tumba encouraged current students to take advantage of the opportunities available to them.
“The AMEP program helped me improve my English and feel more connected to my community. It gave me the skills and confidence I needed to move into studying a Certificate III, now a Certificate IV in Community Services, and commence work at TAFE NSW as a Student Support Officer,” he said.
“My message to current students is to keep learning, ask questions, and believe in yourself. The support at TAFE NSW can help you achieve more than you think you are capable of.”
TAFE NSW Armidale has also recorded an increase in Congolese refugee students participating in the AMEP since August 2025.
Certificates II and III in English as an Additional Language are designed to develop practical English skills, helping students communicate in everyday situations and build pathways into further education and employment.
The AMEP is delivered across about 50 TAFE NSW campuses and is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.
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