A new start for Fidele

Fidele's journey has been anything but easy, but his determination to help others and build a new life is nothing short of inspiring.

Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Fidele lived in a refugee camp in Rwanda before arriving in Australia on a humanitarian visa. He said the Adult Migrant English Program, delivered by TAFE Queensland, helped him with everything from learning how to greet people, to building the confidence to make conversation.

The Adult Migrant English Program provides free English language classes to support migrants and refugees as they settle into life in Australia. The AMEP is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.

“When I first arrived, I didn’t understand English. I only knew some greetings,” he said. “The AMEP helped me so much. It showed me how to speak, how to search for things online, and how to keep improving every day. Even if I make mistakes, I want to keep speaking so I can get better.”

But English wasn’t the only thing on Fidele’s mind. He had a clear goal: to help people with disability.

“In the refugee camp, I helped many people who had been hurt by war. They were our brothers, our parents, our friends. We didn’t have the knowledge, but we did what we could,” he said.

“When I got to Australia, I thought – why not study disability support and learn how to help more people?”

Fidele is now studying his Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021), which is designed to prepare students to work in the community or for NDIS providers. The course covers how to support people with disabilities, promote inclusion and independence, and develop essential communication and teamwork skills.

According to Jobs Queensland data, The Health Care and Social Assistance industry is Townsville’s fastest-growing sector, with nearly 10% growth predicted by 2027-28, adding over 2,000 new jobs.

Fidele says he chose this course because it aligned with his values.

“I just like to help people. Especially people with disability,” he said. “This course helped me learn their rights and how to support them properly. It made me more confident.”

AMEP teacher Sarah Calderbank said the program is about more than just grammar and vocabulary.

“We teach English for work, study, and life in Australia,” she said. “It’s about giving people the tools to connect with their community, find jobs, and continue their education. Fidele is very dedicated. You can see he has a reason to work hard.”

Sarah said many AMEP students go on to do amazing things.

“We’ve had students go on to become lawyers, business owners, engineers, and carers. It starts with a desire to learn and a belief in what’s possible,” she said. “Fidele has both.”

Nathan Dougherty, a Foundation Skills teacher from TAFE Queensland’s Learning Support program, has been working in collaboration with Fidele’s AMEP teacher to support his study of the Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33021).

“Fidele is an inspiration,” Nathan said. “He’s balancing English classes four days a week with a full certificate course, and he just keeps going. Supporting him reminds us why our work matters. He’s unlocking his potential, and we’re just lucky to be part of the journey.”

Fidele said the support he’s received from his teachers has helped him feel more confident.

“Before, I was shy to speak. But my teachers helped me. Now I’m not afraid to make mistakes,” he said. “They always encourage me. They help me believe I can do it.”

With so much already achieved, Fidele is now focused on the future.

“I want to finish my course, get a job helping people with disability, and keep learning,” he said.

And his message to others just starting their journey?

“Don’t give up. Just keep going. Even if it’s hard. Even if your English isn’t good yet. Keep learning and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. In Queensland, the AMEP is delivered by TAFE Queensland.