The Journey
Sarab is originally from Baghdad, Iraq. She spent her early years in a struggling education system marked by scarce resources and limited support, and resolved never to go into teaching. However, her perspective shifted dramatically after receiving a scholarship in 2011 through the Iraqi Student Project. This opportunity allowed her to study in the US and reassess her educational experiences within Iraq. Recognising her true passion lay in reforming educational practices, she decided to major in education, aiming to influence and enhance learning systems. She returned to ongoing conflict and insecurity, and was internally displaced twice, before finally being forced to leave their country due to the rise of ISIS. Sarab and her family fled to Turkey, where they spent three years seeking asylum before finally being granted visas to Australia.
Arriving in Australia
They resettled in Sydney in 2019. Upon arrival, Sarab applied to have her international qualifications recognised, whilst earning her certification to teach English to adults. Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new country, Sarab found continuity and comfort in music, a lifelong companion which had provided her with both solace and a means of expression since her childhood. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she and her sister started a YouTube channel, using music to maintain connections and bring peace during tumultuous times.
Giving Back
In Australia, Sarab is determined to utilise her skills in education and her passion for music to make a meaningful impact. Whether through teaching primary school children and adults or engaging in community music events, she continues to advocate for educational reform and to use her voice to raise awareness about important causes. Her experiences in the US and Iraq have empowered her to embrace challenging conversations and navigate her journey in Australia with resilience and optimism, always looking for ways to contribute positively to her community.
