A refugee from Afghanistan has begun a new chapter at a Brisbane Catholic school, joining the team through Brisbane Catholic Education and Multicultural Australia’s Work and Welcome program.
The initiative empowers refugees to rebuild their lives through employment and community connection across BCE’s six offices and 146 schools.
A doctor and former teacher – and now a school officer at St Elizabeth’s School, Tarragindi – Masooma Karimi said she was forced to leave Afghanistan after the Taliban took control in 2021.
“There was so much chaos that followed,” Dr Karimi said. “People were desperately trying to board planes, many losing their lives in the process.
“As an educated woman, I would have no life there, so I knew I needed to get out and continue to make a difference in other people’s lives.”
Dr Karimi was granted an Australian humanitarian visa in 2024.
St Elizabeth’s School principal Jenna Webb said Dr Masooma has made a profound impact on the lives of students and staff.
“As part of our staff formation day ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ (September 5), Dr Masooma bravely shared her powerful story of leaving her homeland Afghanistan,” she said.
“Dr Masooma’s presentation offered a deeply personal perspective on resilience, education, and the pursuit of safety that makes all of us human.”
Dr Karimi now aspires to continue to pursue her medical career in Australia, specialising in cardiology.
“I want to make use of every opportunity available to me in Australia,” she said. “I want to contribute positively to society and help make the world a better place.”
FULL STORY
From Kabul to Queensland–Dr Masooma’s Pilgrimage of Hope (Brisbane Catholic Education)
