My name is Raghad.  I come from Iraq.

I left Iraq because of a lot of issues and problems in my country.

I came to Brisbane to build a new future for my family.  Australia is a dream for everyone.  It's a safe place to live, and fun, but I miss my country. I miss my friends and my family.  I have lots of memories of home.   But I have made many friends in Brisbane.  They are from Australia, from my community and from many other different cultures.

I'm looking forward to getting a job here and settling more.  Going back to my career in IT is very important to me.

My family and their happiness is very important in my life.  I want to watch my kids be successful in their futures. I want my kid’s dreams to come true.

I am proud of myself. I have learned English, and I have done lots of training and volunteer jobs. I have more confidence now than I had before in my country.

My message for women on International Women's Day is to love yourself, look after yourself and achieve your dreams.