She overcame adversity and heartbreak to get where she is – now former refugee, Joyce Odokopira wants to help others smile.
Ms Odokopira was only eight years old when the South Sudan civil war claimed both of her parents’ lives. After the tragedy Ms Odokopira, her three sisters, and one of her sister’s young children spent 4 years in a refugee camp in Kenya.
In 2003, the girls finally made the boarding list to fly to Australia. Eleven years on and Ms Odokopira is proving “challenges can only make you a better person”.
The 24-year old is determined to complete her social work degree at Griffith University Logan Campus to help make a difference through social work.
“When you put effort into helping somebody you get more reward out if it.” “It’s a blessing to know at the end of the day you have made somebody’s life better. You have put a smile on somebody’s face and that’s something everybody deserves.
After completing her degree, Ms Odokopira hopes to work in rural Australia, helping refugees settle into their new lives.
The Logan office of Turner Freeman Lawyers has given Ms Odokopira a scholarship to help her fulfil her dream.
Turner Freeman Lawyers Logan office
The Logan office is conveniently located at:
Shop 2, 1 Wembley Road, Logan Central.
For more information on the services offered at our Logan office, contact us on (07) 3387 7111 or via online.
Original article appeared in Quest News.