FEATURE
Mubarek Imam: From Eritrea to Egypt to an “Aussie” people to improve their lives is when I feel the happiest and most fulfilled, because I believe in “what you give is what you get”. Where did you first begin your primary education? What do you remember most? I went to Awet Elementary and Junior School in Asmara, the number one school in the country during my time. In my language – Tigrigna – ‘awet’ means ‘victory’. Most of the students are from families who have leadership positions in the country and are upper working class. One of my friends was Elsa, the daughter of the current Eritrean President. My best times in Eritrea were at that school, where I played basketball, made lifetime friendships, and where I built my personality, values, emotional resilience, and confidence. The most valuable thing I learned was to clean my own bedroom before going out criticising the rest of the world.
Mubarek Imam moved from Eritrea to Egypt and then to Australia. Read about his fascinating journey below.
I also attended evening sessions and learned the Holy Quran. At 13, I was selected to attend a prominent school in Islamic Religion. I stayed there until I left Asmara in November 2006.
Name/qualifications/work history: My name is Mubarek Imam, I am 28 and was born in Asmara, Eritrea. I’m excited to soon be called an “Aussie”. I hold a Higher School Certificate, but never pursued a higher qualification. I describe myself as curious, self-educated and intellectual rather than academic – not because I don’t value education, but because the higher education system today has become difficult to access for many and, in some cases, is not relevant to the job market and aspirations of many young people, including me.
Where did you complete your secondary education? I travelled to Egypt to continue my education. I was 14 and on my own. My family came to Egypt three years later. During those three years, I had to register myself, learn Arabic, make connections and sleep over at my cousin’s. I had to repeat Year 8 because Eritrean Certificates are not recognised in Egypt. I studied at B Karnak Language School, then moved to Future International Schools to complete my qualification. My motivation to continue studying started to decrease due to the challenges I faced to get an education.
I believe I have gained more knowledge and experience during my professional and personal experiences than I would have gained in university. I wouldn’t be where I am now if I had taken a different path.
Where were you during your teenage years? Where did you travel before arriving in Australia? My teenage years were spent in Cairo, the city that never sleeps. I had lots of experiences that taught me important lessons that shaped my later decisions. I no longer recognised my dreams. I started reacting to the world. I could not make
My first job was in Egypt as a home tutor. I was 16 and taught English and Maths to Year 1 and 3 students. I also worked in Egypt as a retail assistant, graphic designer, translator, customer service specialist and community worker supporting refugees and asylum seekers. Helping www.graduatehouse.com.au
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