I've been in Brisbane since 2006. I am a Queenslander now.

My name is Grace Samuel Oryem.  I am originally from South Sudan.

I left my country because of war. The war intensified so much and it was not safe for us, so I had to leave.  I took refuge in Uganda. We stayed there for a long time.  Finally, we applied for settlement in Australia under the humanitarian program.

When I arrived in Brisbane, I was so excited. I thought, “at last I'm in a safe place.  I no longer need to live with fear because of war or insecurity.”

I remember home

Home is sweet.  It is place where all the family is; you gather together, you connect, you chat and support each other.  I always remember that throughout my life.

My family is very important to me.

I love helping people

My career is also very important to me because I love helping people.

I've gotten to where I am today because I've been helped by people.  And it is my duty to offer help to others so that together we can build the world.

One of my biggest achievements is completing university.  I graduated with a Bachelor of Human Services.  I’m also proud of my career, being able to offer my services to others and give back to Australia.

My message for International Women's Day is...

International Women's Day, for me, is about promoting women.

Women; we are strong.

It's time for us to celebrate this big day, that recognises us for what we do and who we are.

Let us not look down on ourselves. We are strong, we are capable. And we can manage.

My message is for all women to join together and celebrate with joy.