The Commonwealth Games is just around the corner and for those in Brisbane – just down the road! At AMVL, we believe strongly in the inclusion of all, despite nationality, religion or race. The Commonwealth Games radiates all of these values, which is why we love to be so involved.
In the past, we have written a blog about athletes who were not originally from Australia. As the next games is almost here, it’s a good opportunity to reflect again on how fortunate we are to have migrants from all over the world representing Australia.
There are quite a few migrants in the Australian Commonwealth Games 2018 team. Some of them have quite extraordinary tales to tell. One such story is that of Joseph Deng, who was born in a refugee camp in Kenya. His mother was fleeing from war ridden South Sudan. Joseph will make his Commonwealth games debut in just a few days time when he competes in the 800 metre sprint.
Another athlete who has only recently called Australia home is athlete Vannara Be. Vannara came to Australia in 1998 from Cambodia in search of a better life here and helped his father working on a farm. He will be taking part in the weightlifting event on the second day of competition.
Bendere Oboya left her home country at just 3 years of age with her family in search of a better life in Australia. Now just 17 years old, she will be one of the youngest athletes in the Australian team. Bendere will take on other athletes in the 400 metre sprint.
It is so gratifying, reflecting on the achievements of these incredible athletes. Many of us do not realise the struggle that so many people go through to be able to call Australia home.
From all of us at AMVL, we wish all athletes the very best of luck!
