My name is Caroline.  I left my country, Syria, because there was war.

When I arrived in Brisbane, when I got off the plane, to be honest, it felt like a dream

I have been in Australia for four years.

I am a mum.  I have two girls and and one boy.  My son was born here in Australia.

I have made many friends in Brisbane, from lots of different cultures. I have made many friends with parents at my daughters' school.

I remember Syria...

I remember my parents, my country and my village.  I remember the seasons in my country are different from the seasons in Australia.

I have many family members still in Syria.

I was music teacher in my country.  When I came to Australia, I did a course in hospitality.  We catered many events, cooking our cultural food.  This was a beautiful experience for me and for my husband.

My family is very important in my life.

I am proud of my kids. They heave learned English very quickly. I'm proud of myself too. I am learning English and getting used to speaking it.  In the last four years I have settled in Australia, had a baby, and completed two qualifications.  I’m proud of my husband too – he is going to be a qualified chef. 

My wishes for the future are to buy a house, and work in childcare.  I want to see the rest of my family achieve their goals.

My hope for International Women’s Day is that all women from different cultures can achieve their goals.

Don't be afraid of learning new things and have positive energy.