Getting their kicks: Kamal Ibrahim at the soccer workshop with 21-year-old Afghan refugee Ali Ahmadi.
ERIN PEARSON
HUNDREDS of refugees are breaking down social barriers in Geelong through sport, according to a community development officer.
Dennis Tomasovic, of multicultural services provider Diversitat, said the refugees were building relationships and even finding full-time work through sport.
“It’s been a fantastic integration tool because it breaks down many barriers,” Mr Tomasovic said.
“I watch the refugees come out of their shells and talk about their life’s journey, what they’ve gone through to get here and start to build wonderful friendships.
“Many have natural sporting abilities and if they’re given the opportunities that most of us take for granted the sky’s the limit.
“They’re going to be fantastic members of the Geelong community.”
Karen and Congolese refugees participated in soccer workshops with A-League Melbourne Heart superstar Kamal Ibrahim at Norlane’s Northern Community Hub this week to mark Refugee Week.
Mr Tomasovic called Ibrahim an outstanding role model for refugees after arriving in Australia from war-torn Ethiopia eight years ago.
The Australian Institute of Sport graduate was now also an ambassador for Football Federation Victoria to help new arrivals in Australia, Mr Tomasovic said.
“Watching him converse with refugees this week was just amazing.”
Melbourne Heart game development officer Darren Snijders said the side was particularly proud to watch Ibrahim share his skills and story with refugees.
“We’re rapt to see him in this leadership role. He has a real passion for helping and used sport as a great tool to break down barriers.”
Refugee Week began last Sunday and finishes on Saturday.
