From welcome to leadership: Empowerment Exchange at the ASC

“ASC was a great help to me when I first arrived and still is.” – Franny*, an ASC alumni community member 

Every story matters at the Asylum Seekers Centre (ASC), and the Empowerment Exchange project turns those stories into a force for change.

In partnership with Multicultural NSW, the project harnesses the lived experience of people seeking asylum in Greater Sydney.

Building on the knowledge, resilience, and wisdom of our community members, the program creates opportunities for connection, learning, and giving back.

Empowerment through connection

For newcomers, isolation can be daunting. 

The Empowerment Exchange creates spaces where people can meet others who understand their journey.

Last year, we hosted eight Welcome Sessions, bringing new and existing community members together to share stories, learn about services, and build confidence.

Franny*, a former client, says, “I enjoyed coming to the welcome session, it was nice to share my experience. I have been in Australia for six years now. 

“It was good to tell those who are new what services are available, how to find a job, and how I managed in the first few years.”

Shared lunches after the sessions turned introductions into friendships and conversations into trust.

Novela Corda, the ASC’s Community Engagement Specialist explains, “Peer connection is incredibly powerful.” 

“When people meet others who understand their journey, it builds trust, confidence, and a sense of community that can’t be replicated in any other way.”

Empowerment through voice

Beyond connection, the Empowerment Exchange project also focused on listening. 

Through two focus group discussions, participants were invited to share their experiences, challenges, and ideas.

“Our community members are the experts in their own experiences. By listening to their ideas and feedback, we can design programs that genuinely reflect their needs and aspirations,” adds Novela.

This approach ensures that everyone has a voice in building the support systems at the ASC.

Empowerment through celebration

The Expowerment Exchange program also celebrates culture, resilience, and community through shared events like Iftar dinners and Refugee Week celebrations.

These gatherings provide spaces for collective strength.

Saul*, a community member, shared his appreciation after participating in our recent Iftar dinner event. 

“It felt like family. Breaking the fast together with people from different backgrounds reminded me that I am not alone here. The warmth and kindness made the evening very special.”

For those who once received support, participating in these events is a symbol of growth and contribution.

Raya*, a former client, shares, “Organising the Iftar together with ASC felt very special. 

“It shows how people who once received support can now help bring the community together.”

Looking forward: From participants to community leaders

The momentum of the Empowerment Exchange has also helped shape the development of the Friends of ASC initiative. 

This alumni program is designed to keep former clients connected through volunteering, mentoring, and leadership opportunities.

Arabella*, a community member who was supported by the ASC before she received her protection visa, shares how wonderful she feels about being part of the Friends of ASC. 

“I think it would be nice to contribute and support others who are in similar situations. I would like to give back. Also, this is a great way to stay in touch with ASC, our first home.”

Thanks to the support of Multicultural NSW, the Empowerment Exchange and Friends of ASC are turning experience into impact. 

Novela concludes, “The Asylum Seekers Centre is a place where people can get support and thrive as leaders. 

“The Empowerment Exchange shows how lived experience becomes guidance, community, and hope for everyone who walks through our doors.”