For 41-year-old, Fadya Alkhalaf, the program has been life changing. When she arrived in Australia in 2019, Fadya could not speak English. Since studying at TAFE NSW and participating in the Stepping Up Program, Fadya now owns a hospitality business.

"Studying at TAFE NSW has given me a voice and helped me establish a career in hospitality. With the support of my teacher, I've learnt to cook from recipes, operate a kitchen and follow health and safety requirements, which I now apply to my own business," says Fadya.

"Selling traditional Ezidi cuisine to the Armidale community has given me a sense of pride and connection to my culture. For this and the opportunities I now have, I'm very pleased I took part in the program. I look forward to continuing my English language studies next year," adds Fadya.

TAFE NSW AMEP and English Language Teacher, Frances Tafra, says the program uses language as a vehicle to establish critical foundations that set migrant communities up for success.

"When students come to us, they've often experienced personal challenges and can feel isolated in a new country without knowing the language," says Mrs Tafra.

"The Stepping Up Program helps migrants learn essential English skills, practical tools and gain real-world experience that students can apply at home and in the workplace," says Mrs Tafra.

The AMEP is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. Students of the Stepping Up Kitchen Operations Program will graduate on Friday 13th December and achieve a Statement of Attainment in Kitchen Operations.

**Media contact:**Holly Simpson, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 0498213833.

Keep up to date with what’s happening at TAFE NSW by reading more stories.