Vera follows her heart

Paul & Vera visiting Moscow

Vera has moved across the globe to be with her husband. Paul and Vera met online about six years ago when she was living in Russia and he was in Australia.  When they were chatting online Vera would type in Russian and press the 'translate' button so Paul could read what she had written and vice versa. "We communicated every day for a year before I knew we could no longer be apart." she said.

Vera's English improved since starting to learn English in the AMEP both in the classroom and by Distance Learning with teacher Karen. Vera was an economics teacher in Russia but is starting a new career in childcare and is determined to achieve her goal.  "Studying in the AMEP has helped me greatly with my English", Vera said.  "I really want a career working with children and my English must be up to standard to do so.  If you're smart and you keep working and keep trying you can do anything you want.  If I can do this at the age of 56, anyone can."

Vera's improved English will help her to complete her Diploma in Early Childhood Education.  She is gaining experience working with young children by teaching art and craft at the local public school.  When she completes her studies, Vera hopes to find work in a child care centre. "Aside from my husband, I haven't had the opportunity to practise my English by talking to a lot of people, so these courses have helped me very much," Vera said.

About communicating with her husband Vera said, "Communication has never been an issue with my husband and I; when we first met all we had to do was look into each other's eyes and we knew there was love.  A lot of people decide to move to Australia for a better life but I moved here for love and for happiness.  The heart wants what the heart wants, so follow your heart and never give up - that's my advice to anyone wanting to find happiness and take on a challenge.  Anything is possible."

Thanks Vera for sharing your story of love, hard work and determination.  We wish you all the best for your life in Australia.

• In what ways does Vera's story inspire you?
• What is the secret to good communication?
• What do you think of Vera's advice to "follow your heart"?
• What are your future goals? How do you overcome obstacles to achieving them?

Why not support Vera by adding a comment below!

Meet Teacher Hena

Teacher Hena

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Hena.  I was born in Iraq but grew up in Turkey so I can speak Arabic and Turkish fluently. I've been in Australia for 18 years. I have two sons, 16 and 12 and they are both very much into soccer.  My oldest son enjoys cooking so we cook a lot together.

Tell us about what you do at Navitas?
I am a Distance Learning teacher, a classroom teacher and an assessor and have been working with Navitas for 5 years.

What do you think are the benefits for classroom students who also study by distance?
The classroom is a great place for students to communicate with each other and be face to face with the teacher.  DL is a great option for those who can't make it to class. But students who study both in the classroom and by distance make the most out of the two modes of learning.  They get extra assistance with their classroom work and they can also focus on their own areas of need at their own level with the DL teacher.  Usually their English improves faster.

How is this week special for you?
This week I celebrate the Eid which marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.  We usually have a feast where families and friends get together and indulge in eating delicious traditional food to celebrate the end of a hard month of restricted eating.

What message would you like to give to your students about living in Australia?
Australia is a great country.  You can be part of the Australian community without losing your own identity.  You can participate in work and in mainstream community activities with freedom and respect regardless of your background, religion or gender.

• Compare learning in class with learning by distance.  What option suits you best and why? 
• Do you agree with the statement that you can participate in the mainstream Australian community without losing your identity? Discuss.
• What Australian values do you appreciate the most? 

Share your comments below.