Zakariah's Story

Like many people who have migrated from the Horn of Africa, Zachariah's family were determined to leave the uncertainties of the past behind them when they arrived in Melbourne four years ago. Thanks to a referral from a local school, the family were put in touch with a Learning for Life Worker and a new, better life started to take shape for them. Each of their three children is sponsored by The Smith Family, and every family member is benefitting from accessing a range of Learning for Life programs and opportunities. Zakariah, Year 5, and his sister Tirhas, Year 4 are both involved in a literacy program, student2student, while their parents are improving their English skills with the help of Each One Teach One tutors. As huge soccer fans, the children have been thrilled to take part in activities organized by the Melbourne Victory Football Club, through its association with The Smith Family. During an important match, all three children played in a 'Little League' game on the pitch during half time and Tirhas had the experience of a lifetime when she was chosen to stand beside club captain Kevin Muscat during the playing of the national anthem. And another leader is emerging in the family, with Zakariah winning the support of his peers and teachers to become school captain this year.