From Pakistan to Australia, Saadia’s journey to Resthaven
Ten years ago, Saadia Ali made a life altering decision to move from Pakistan to Australia, in search of a better life for her family. Now, Saadia is exactly where she wants to be.
Saadia says, ‘In Pakistan, I acquired a double degree in media and political science, and English literature, and found employment as a teacher.’
After having her first child, Saadia and her family made the tough decision to move to Australia, encountering a few setbacks along the way.
‘When the pandemic hit in 2020, I found it incredibly stressful finding work in my field. I knew I had to broaden my search, even if it was something I could do temporarily.’
‘I could see that community work was popular here, so I began studying a Diploma in Community Services to give myself a better chance of finding work.’
After completing her qualification, Saadia came across Resthaven.
‘I found a traineeship opportunity with Resthaven Marion Community Services, to work as a Home Support Worker, while studying a Certificate III in Individual Support.’
What started out as a temporary job, quickly turned into a career, and Saadia was delighted to accept a coordinator position seven months in.
‘I kept pushing off aged care, but I found myself thoroughly enjoying the work, and the purpose of helping the community.’
‘My manager at the time, Lee Bennetts [now Manager Onkaparinga Community Services], encouraged me to progress right from the beginning, and it was her mentoring and support that has led me to pursue more within aged care.’
Now, Saadia works across Resthaven Community Services, as Relieving Assistant Manager, providing support to the site teams.
‘As I have worked in those direct care positions, I know how important it is to support the staff who provide the care—making sure that they are looked after.’
‘It is incredibly rewarding to support and nurture the team that provide clients with the best possible care. It all starts with the staff.’
Thank you, Saadia, for sharing your inspiring career journey with us!
We are always interested in applications from committed people who share our passion for working together to provide high-quality care and support to older people and their carers.