Omid (Persian: اُمید‎): meaning hope

Omid began in 2013 providing a safe space for asylum seekers to meet, learn English, and share in food and hospitality. In 2014 they led a National Advocacy Campaign with our pastor Tri Nguyen, called The Gift of Refuge, walking from Brunswick to Canberra to deliver a gift: a boat, to parliament as a token of gratitude. Since then many have received VISAs and permanancy, moving into work, but some like Saeid still wait.

 

Omid is a story of resilience and hope. Our friends came here in the hope to find a safe and stable life, and despite vast challenges, have given to our community with immense generosity and grace, not only supporting one another but the entire community. ​​​

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Recently, Saeid secured a generous donation of paint from Dulux to restore our delapidated loft. The goal was to develop an art studio where Zohreh can host weekly art therapy sessions, provided free for asylum seekers and migrants (scroll down to see the remarkable transformation).