Tala’s story: Cooking, crafting and connection

Tala*, a mother of three, arrived in Australia nearly five years ago, escaping danger in her home country.

Despite the challenges she faces navigating the complexities of seeking asylum, Tala’s community spirit shines brightly.

“Meeting people and sharing ideas is what I enjoy the most,” she shares.

Tala’s passion for connection and learning is in full force in the Knit and Nourish program at the Asylum Seekers Centre’s Auburn hub. The program is a welcoming space for mums to develop sewing skills as well as to cook and share traditional meals. Tala has been an active member of the group, especially in cooking.

Nourishing the soul

For Tala, cooking is not just nourishment for the body, but also for the mind and soul.

“It is sharing about the cultures, sharing the taste. Authentic taste! I forget stress and I enjoy… We share the ingredients of what we are making. We can look and we can learn ‘Oh that’s their special ingredient!’. We learn new food recipes from different backgrounds.”

Tala’s specialty, biryani, is prepared with fresh ingredients and her secret ginger-garlic paste.

“They say it’s very tasty!”, she adds with pride.

Jude, a Community Connectors Volunteer at the ASC, speaks highly of Tala’s contributions.

“Tala has strong leadership qualities and is confident in taking the lead. She was a key person initially to lead the monthly meals that are planned and prepared by the women who attend Wednesdays at Auburn. Her vibrant personality encourages others to participate and also helps develop strong relationships within the group.”

Jude shares how she’s also witnessed Tala’s confidence in sewing grow.

“Initially, Tala brought clothes for mending and asked other women to do this for her. But some weeks ago, she was seated at the sewing machine herself and was learning with one of the other mums. She said she surprised herself!”

Strength in sisterhood

The impact of the program and its gatherings extends well beyond practical outputs.

“It helps with mental stress. Sharing and everything. Sharing our thoughts, our ideas… How to deal with mental health. how to handle the kids” Tala says, reflecting on the value of sharing experiences with other mothers who face similar struggles.

Jude adds, “These spaces are not necessarily easily available to them in the general community and here they have said they feel connected… Their confidence has grown.”

Love for learning

Tala’s confidence and passion for learning is now stronger than ever.

“I would like to continue my studies,” she shares of her goal to get a diploma in early childhood education.

“Because back in my country, we thought we could never do that. We could never study. The woman’s life was structured – kitchen, food, cleaning. But after a year here, I came to know that you are free to do that (to study). I also learned driving. I learned with my husband’s support and I got a licence!”

In a world where her past confined her, Tala now thrives in the freedom to learn, connect, and grow. Her story illustrates the power of community, proving that through shared meals and friendships, even the heaviest burdens can feel lighter.

“[Here it’s a] gathering of all the people around all the world, different languages, different people from different countries, all together happy. At the Asylum Seekers Centre they look [at] everyone equal, that I love.”

The Knit and Nourish program is generously supported by the Cumberland City Council and Choice Preschool.

If you or your organisation is interested in funding a project or partnership opportunities at the ASC contact fundraising@asylumseekerscentre.org.au.