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Khaled Gives Back
After finding settlement support at TAFE Queensland, Iraqi refugee Khaled Omar is giving back to the Toowoomba community at The Basement Soup Kitchen.
In 2025, it is estimated that over 122 million people around the world – more than 1.5% of the global population – have been forcibly displaced due to persecution, conflict, violence, or human rights violations1.
As World Refugee Day approaches on Friday 20 June, TAFE Queensland recognises the incredible resilience and strength of its refugee cohort, many of whom, like Khaled Omar, initially joined the training provider as English language students.
After arriving from Iraq in 2023, Khaled joined the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) at TAFE Queensland’s Toowoomba campus. The free program, which is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, supports participants as they settle into life in Australia.
‘I really enjoyed my AMEP classes,’ Khaled said. ‘It was a significant step in my journey, and the skills and confidence I gained have made a real difference in my life.’
In addition to his time in the classroom, Khaled was keen to engage in everything TAFE Queensland had to offer. As a Youth student, he participated in the AMEP Youth Camp, became a member of the Youth Student Council, and started playing hockey through a program organised by TAFE Queensland AMEP teacher Kelly Barron.
‘We all noticed a determination and hard-working attitude in Khaled,’ Kelly said. ‘He moved through the class levels very quickly, and we supported him with opportunities to try new things as much as possible.’
After building his skills for the workforce, Khaled was empowered to take the next steps. In late 2024, he commenced a Hospitality traineeship at The Basement Soup Kitchen, run by Base Services.
Base Services is a not-for-profit community development organisation that works with individuals in need. Their services reach a diverse demographic: women of all ages, people of diverse cultural backgrounds, those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and people with health issues and addictions.
‘It feels so rewarding to help those in need and see the smiles on their faces,’ Khaled said, smiling.
‘It's a meaningful experience that makes a difference in their lives.’
TAFE Queensland delivers the AMEP at over 50 locations across Queensland. To learn more, visit tafeqld.edu.au/amep.
[1] UNHCR 2024 Mid-Year Trends report, https://www.unhcr.org/mid-year-trends-report-2024.