In December 2023, Sayed attended a Men’s Group session at ASeTTS to support his uncle by interpreting in Dari. During the session, he learned about a vacancy for a Bicultural Facilitator position and was encouraged to apply.
Sayed didn’t know this type of work existed; he had been interpreting in the past because he wanted to help others. Having only arrived in Australia in August 2022, he was focused on completing Year 11 and 12. Still, he applied and soon after, he began his journey as one of ASeTTS’ youngest Bicultural Facilitators.
Since then Sayed has supported clients across a range of programs including Families in Cultural Transition, the Afghan Community Project, Dr. Krishna Somers Expressive Arts Youth Program, and Men’s Group. His role goes beyond language support helping to build bridges for communities and create belonging.
Sayed shared that he can’t choose just one single favourite part of the job. “There are many things,” he said. “It’s a good thing you feel honoured to do something for your community.”
From an ASeTTS facilitator’s perspective, Sayed said he is helping to create spaces that reduce isolation and foster connection through groups and activities. For him personally, it’s also a place of learning and growth.
Since childhood, Sayed has dreamed of becoming a lawyer. “It might be difficult,” he said, “but the dream is still there, and I will work towards it.”
At just 20 years old, Sayed is already on a path to making a difference in the lives of others. “I feel more confident in myself,” he said. “I feel like I’m different from other people my age. When you see what the clients have been through, it opens you up to a different experience.”
