Small Steps, Big Progress: Gul Bahar’s Learning Journey with the SEE Program.
“I thank God that I joined the SEE Program. I have learned a lot and now I can do many things by myself. I will continue trying my best to improve my English.”
When Gul Bahar arrived in Australia in 2024, everything felt unfamiliar. Everyday tasks such as catching a train, shopping, reading signs, or booking appointments were challenging. Due to limited opportunities in Afghanistan, she never attended school to learn how to read or write in her first language, Hazaragi.
Gul described experiencing “culture shock” and often felt overwhelmed trying to navigate daily life during her early days in Australia.
Determined to become independent and develop her English language, literacy, numeracy, and digital (LLND) skills, she enrolled in the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program at Navitas Skilled Futures (NSF) Auburn college in 2025 after being referred by a friend.
The SEE Program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
Learning at Her Own Pace
With no previous formal education, no literacy skills in her first language and no knowledge of English, Gul was starting her learning journey in the SEE program from the very beginning. Recognising her individual needs, Gul’s trainer developed a tailored learning approach that focused on the key areas where she needed the most support.
Through practical and step by step teaching methods such as body language, visual aids, repetitive pronunciation practice, and everyday examples, lessons were designed to help Gul build essential language, literacy, numeracy, and digital skills. The personalised support helped her feel comfortable in class, encouraged and motivated her to keep learning.
Building Skills for Everyday Life
As her English improved, so did her confidence.
Tasks that once seemed impossible gradually became part of Gul’s daily routine. She learned how to understand signs at train and bus stations, effectively communicate with her trainer and classmates, and manage everyday activities independently.
One standout moment that made Gul especially proud of herself was being able to write a message to her teacher in English:
“Teacher, good morning, I not come tomorrow, my boiler not work and plumber will come to fix it.”
While it was a simple message, it represented a major achievement and showed how far she had come in her learning journey.
Preparing for Future Employment
The SEE Program is more than learning English; it helps participants develop the practical communication and workplace-ready skills needed to build a future in Australia.
Through regular attendance and participation, Gul has strengthened her speaking, reading, and writing, building confidence along the way. Gul can now book appointments, fill out forms and reports. She is also developing her digital skills by learning how to operate and work on a computer.
These skills are helping her to participate more actively in the community and become better prepared for future study and employment opportunities. Reflecting on her improvement, Gul says, “I thank God that I joined the SEE Program. I have learned a lot and now I can do many things by myself. I will continue trying my best to improve my English.”
Her journey shows that learning and strengthening the LLND skills can open new opportunities and make everyday life easier. No matter the starting point, the SEE Program provides personalised support to help participants build the skills, confidence, and independence needed to achieve their goals.
For anyone facing similar challenges, Gul Bahar’s story is a reminder: it is never too late to learn, grow, and take the first step towards a brighter future.
The Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. For those seeking language, literacy, numeracy, and digital skills through the SEE Program, call Navitas Skilled Futures on 1300 798 111.
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