North Lake’s Year 11 classes will be boosted by a spectacular group of new students next semester judging by the achievement ceremony held in the auditorium on Thursday.
Guests were greeted with music from Patrick and Eh Paw and guided through proceedings by MCs Adel and Afrooz.
North Lake principal Mary Margetts acknowledged the hard work of the students and urged them to celebrate their success and build on it in the new semester. IEC coordinator Sean Bruce-Cullen reminded students that life was a great journey and looked forward to the wonderful contributions they will make to their new country.
Students from IEC 3.1 and 3.2 set a high standard with their musical presentation You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone (Cup Song) highlighted by Nada’s brilliant singing.
Congratulations to award winners Nicky (Maths), Dyrel (Science), Aida (English), Mubarika (Endeavour), Esther (Endeavour) and Sakina (English) who received certificates from Mary, Sean and teachers Bob and Peta.
Special guest speaker Hussien Nasar last attended the IEC at North Lake in 2007. After arriving in Australia with almost nothing and speaking no English he worked at many jobs and completed many courses before making a name for himself doing what he’d always loved – cutting hair. He is now recognised as one of the best barbers in Australia – he was a finalist in the Barber of the Year section at the 2019 Hair Expo held in Sydney. His work has taken Hussein all over the world.
Hussein’s message to the IEC students was simple and powerful: “You can change your life. The teachers at North Lake have set you up. It’s up to you make good choices and think of what you want to do and do it.” He emphasised the importance of choosing your friends carefully and spending time with people who will support you.
Aida and Dyrel reminded as all of what the students had learned and experienced during their time at North Lake IEC getting to know the language and culture of their new home. There were more reminders of a busy schedule in the slideshow prepared by Pasit with help from Mariama, Danielle and Adel.
Another highlight was the Afghani cultural dance performed by Mubarika, Suraya, Tahera, Sakina, Somaia and Afrooz in dazzling traditional costumes.
Congratulations to all involved, including the Hospitality students who prepared and served afternoon tea.
By the way, semester two starts next week!
