Meet Abraham: Turning Tragedy into Hope

From the depths of unimaginable loss to the forefront of community leadership, Abraham’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Before becoming our Chairperson, Abraham lived a life divided by tragedy and triumph. Growing up in South Sudan, his world was shattered by senseless violence. He suffered the devastating loss of his entire family and survived a gunshot wound to the leg. Forced to flee, he hid in surrounding areas, navigating a perilous path to survival fuelled only by the hope of a safer tomorrow.

A New Beginning

In 2005, that hope became a reality when Abraham arrived in Australia. Seizing the opportunity for a fresh start, he rebuilt his life from the ground up, eventually marrying and founding a beautiful family of his own.

But Abraham chose not to leave his past entirely behind. Instead, he transformed his profound pain into a powerful purpose.

"True healing comes from lifting others as we climb."

Leading with Lived Experience

Today, as our Chairperson, Abraham uses his lived experience to guide newly arrived refugees and migrants through the complex journey of settling and assimilating into Australian society. He understands the fear of the unknown, the weight of trauma, and the monumental effort it takes to start over. Under his compassionate leadership, our charity provides the essential cultural, emotional, and practical support that transforms newcomers into thriving community members.

How You Can Help

Abraham survived so that he could help others do the same. But he cannot do it alone.

Your generosity directly funds the settlement programs, mentorship, and resources that Abraham and his team deliver daily. By donating today, you aren’t just giving money—you are investing in a human being's future and helping someone write their own story of survival and success.

Please Donate Now to Support Our Mission

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The Working Lajiik for Community Association Inc. is a community-led charity dedicated to strengthening connection, preserving culture, and creating opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds across Australia.

We exist to bring people together—across generations, cultures, and experiences—through storytelling, language, and shared community initiatives. Our work is grounded in a simple belief: when people feel connected to their identity, their history, and each other, stronger and more resilient communities are built.

What are We Doing right now

Language & Cultural Preservation – The Lajiik Language Project

Our flagship Lajiik Language Project is focused on preserving and revitalising language among African diaspora communities in Australia. Many young people grow up disconnected from their mother tongue, which can create a gap between them and their families, especially elders and relatives overseas.

Through free and accessible language classes, cultural workshops, and community sessions, we help:

• Children and youth reconnect with their heritage

• Families communicate across generations

• Cultural identity remain strong and vibrant

This project is about more than language—it’s about identity, belonging, and pride.

Heritage & Storytelling – Veterans and Community Stories Project

Our Bridging Histories: Educating Victorian Refugees and CALD Communities about Veterans – The Storytelling Project brings together veterans, migrants and community leaders to share their life stories.

This initiative:

• Preserves powerful personal histories

• Builds understanding across cultures and generations

• Inspires young people through real-life experiences

• Strengthens social cohesion and mutual respect

By documenting and sharing these stories, we ensure that knowledge, resilience, and wisdom are not lost—but passed forward.

Emerging & Future Projects

We are continuously growing and responding to community needs. Our upcoming initiatives include:

• Youth Empowerment Programs
  Leadership, mentoring, and skills development opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds.

• Digital Story Archive
  A permanent online platform to preserve and share community stories, languages, and cultural knowledge.

• Community Wellbeing & Inclusion Initiatives
  Programs focused on mental wellbeing, social connection, and reducing isolation among migrants and vulnerable groups.

• Education & Resource Support
  Providing learning materials, technology, and support for disadvantaged and refugee children to succeed in school.

Our Impact

Our work creates real, lasting change by:

• Strengthening family and community connections

• Preserving cultural identity and language

• Promoting inclusion and social harmony

• Empowering the next generation with knowledge and confidence

Join Us

We believe that meaningful change happens when communities come together.

Whether you are a volunteer, partner, donor, or participant—there is a place for you in our journey.

Together, we are building bridges between cultures, generations, and futures.

Please click here to Contact Us