From salon dreams to landing her first job: Farhat’s journey in Australia 

Farhat decided to leave Afghanistan after the Taliban came to power. After moving with her family to Pakistan, she came to Australia in March 2024 to pursue a better life.  

Before coming to Australia, Farhat ran her own business in Afghanistan. “Back home, I ran a boutique beauty salon. I was passionate about the beauty industry,” Farhat recalled proudly. She arrived in Australia with hope for a safe life and new opportunities, but her first hurdle was English. 

From unfamiliar to familiar: finding a rhythm at NSF 

“At first, my English was not very good,” Farhat said. “It was hard to communicate. Even when I went shopping, I couldn’t talk to people.” Her job provider referred her to Navitas Skilled Futures (NSF), and she commenced the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program. The Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.  

Farhat first studied at the Fairfield campus, then moved to Parramatta because it was more convenient. “I feel very comfortable at NSF,” she said. “Everyone is friendly; the campus feels like home.” Step by step, her confidence grew. “I learned useful computer skills and skills in my field of beauty. My English improved a lot. This morning, I went to Service NSW for my police check, and I could speak with staff easily.” 

She is eager to share how much she enjoys learning. “Learning also happens beyond the classroom,” she said, referring to how NSF also offers additional ways for students to learn about Australia.  

“After class, there are many activities for us. Organised by NSF, I’ve been to the city and the Opera House with classmates. I’ve also been to Parramatta Library. That is my favourite place! And last week, after class, I went to the park near the campus with my classmate, it was so much fun.” 

Linking class to workplace

NSF brought Farhat more than improved English and a better understanding of life in Australia, A bigger surprise was waiting for her. 

In October 2025, SEE students from NSF Parramatta and Auburn colleges attended an Aged Care Expo to learn about work in aged care and disability. At the Expo, an exhibitor was seeking applicants for a role related to the beauty field. An NSF trainer contacted the exhibitor and put forward several suitable NSF clients. Farhat was one of them. 

“That day, a trainer called me and said they had found a job for me and asked if I wanted to apply,” Farhat remembered.

“I cannot describe how excited I was. Finding a job in my own field in Australia is my dream!”

With support from NSF, Farhat attended the interview and was successful. Her new job starts on 3 November 2025. 

Bringing the salon dream to Australia 

For Farhat, this is more than a job; it opens the path to her long-term dream. The salon she once owned is gone, but the seed of starting her own business has stayed in her heart, waiting to grow. “In the future I want to start my own business in Australia,” she said. “I know it won’t be easy. I don’t have a certificate to run a business yet, and I don’t have enough experience. But I won’t give up.” After finishing the SEE Program, Farhat will keep improving her English and continue studying in the beauty field at TAFE. 

 “NSF gave me a safe place to start,” she said. “I learned how to study again, how to ask for help, and how to use English in real life.” She still has a lot to learn, but she feels ready for the next stage. With a new role beginning, ongoing study, and a clear plan, Farhat is turning a difficult journey into a hopeful one. “With NSF’s help, I’m confident I will achieve my goals,” she said. 

Find out more about the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program at Navitas Skilled Futures by calling 1300 798 111.