Nasir Husain, a social worker graduated from Flinder university, describes his initial days of struggle after landing to Australia in 2006 when he decided to drive a cab to survive initially.
Hailing from Pakistan, Nasir told SBS Urdu that it was his parents that empowered him to work for others in the community.
"I have always enjoyed helping and supporting needy people regardless of race, colour or ethnic background, and volunteering to contribute back to Australian society."
"There was a need for an organisation to cater to the requirements of the newly arrived residents in Australia, especially in Adelaide.
"With this aim in mind, we established the new organisation, Pakistani Australian Connections of South Australia (PACSA).
Nasir says that the early settlement of the new arrivals is very important, so his association connects with the new migrants even before they arrive in Australia.
"From pick-up services at the airport to finding a place to start their lives in the city, we offer all services to help new residents become a part of society.We are a team of five people and volunteer our time and effort to provide these services.
"One has to be positive when coming to Australia. Be kind and helpful to the people around you and represent your community in the best way, which not only highlights your own community but promotes the multicultural society."
"We have our social media presence on Facebook and Whatsapp and when someone wants information or assistance we respond immediately. Not only we help in finding a place to reside but we also check whether they have a job or searching for one.
"We also provide a sample of resumes and cover letter samples to initiate the job-hunting process.
Members of Pakistani Australian Connections of South Australia (PACSA) visit the parliament house, SA. Photo: Facebook/PACSA Source: FB/PACSA
Challenges as a new migrant
Nasir says that he himself experienced challenges when he arrived in Australia.
"I was from a middle-class family in Pakistan with not enough money or funds to invest or start a business.
"I had great qualifications including an MBA and worked in the textile industry. However, there were not many opportunities in similar fields, I started working as a volunteer.
"To survive, I had to drive a Taxi.
"But then I did a certificate in disability which helped me get a job. Later, I did a masters in social work and now I am working while serving the community too."
Nasir belives in the philosophy of 'glass is half-full than half-empty' and advises new migrants to be more positive in life.
"One has to be positive when coming to Australia. Be kind and helpful to the people around you and represent your community in the best way, which not only highlights your own community but promotes multicultural society."
More stories
