From adversity to achievement: Federation Uni graduates triumph

More than 200 Federation University students are set to graduate in Berwick this week, but for Mina Bolandhemati the occasion is particularly special.

Arriving in Australia in 2003 with her husband and two young children, Mina faced the daunting task of building a new life in a country where she didn’t speak the language.

Her family left their homeland due to religious discrimination that prevented Mina from pursuing higher education and professional advancement.

“In our country, Baha’i people were not able to pursue higher education or work in government jobs,” she said. “Coming to Australia gave me that opportunity.”

Drawing on her previous experience as a maths tutor, Mina initially pursued higher education studies in accounting – before discovering her passion for helping others.

“Supporting asylum seeker and refugee families at AMES Australia, I found I love to work with people, rather than with numbers,” she said.

She went on to complete her Diploma of Community Services, followed by a Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs, and now graduates from Federation University with her Master of Social Work.

Mina’s commitment to inclusion and community shone throughout her time at Federation, where she organised events and celebrations – including Christmas parties and cultural lunches – to help international students feel welcome and connected.

“I always tried to make connections and invite students to my community activities. We celebrated our successes together and supported each other,” she said.

Balancing her education with family responsibilities and work, Mina also received a scholarship from Federation University that provided vital financial support and motivation to continue.

“It was difficult, but the scholarship was a good sign for me to keep going,” she said.

Now fluent in English, Dari and Farsi, she’s hoping to use what she’s learnt to support and empower other refugee and migrant Australians.

“I feel that young people are in need of support, particularly when they make the change of moving from their home country to Australia,” she said.

Mina says her success wouldn’t have been possible without the help of Federation staff – and the support of her husband and two now-grown children.

“I am so thankful to my husband and children – they have always been so supportive. And they tell me – we are so proud of you.”

The graduation ceremony will be held at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren on Wednesday, 29 October at 11.00am.