Amid unimaginable adversity, Tina Mukasa’s life journey is one defined by unwavering determination, resilience and an unyielding commitment to creating positive change.
Born in the heart of the conflict-ridden Democratic Republic of Congo, Tina’s childhood was shadowed by the horrors of war, robbing her of the safety and stability every child deserves.
In the wake of the conflict, she faced the gut-wrenching loss of her beloved mother and was separated from her twin sister, Neema. Enduring six years in a refugee camp, Tina’s father valiantly navigated the harsh realities of hunger, violence, and dire living conditions to protect and support his family.
Today, Tina’s father, Maulidi Mukasa, remains her hero, her inspiration and the person who has helped shape her into the woman she is today.
“My dad did everything for us, and he is why my siblings and I strive to take every opportunity we can,” Tina said.
“We take risks, explore, network and aim to empower others.
“My dad has made me the person I am today, and he will always be my hero.”
At the tender age of eight, Tina’s life took a profound turn as she was uprooted from her homeland and thrust into the unfamiliar embrace of Australia.
Her family’s arrival was met with open arms, and within the welcoming embrace of Shepparton’s rural community, they began to rebuild shattered dreams and forge a new life.
“I remember it being overwhelming and strange at the same time and having tears of joy to be finally in a safe place,” Tina said.
“I didn’t know what living was like until I came to Shepparton.
“It’s my past. Today, I focus on the now and the future.”
Tina’s path to the present has been paved with hardships. However, amid the tranquillity of a new home, she has embarked on a remarkable journey that has reshaped her destiny and crafted a narrative of triumph against all odds.
Armed with resilience and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Tina has embraced the opportunities offered to her in Australia.
She has become a leader in her own right, and today, she is passionate about causes that break barriers, inspire youth and pave pathways of hope for future generations.
She is incredibly proud of her new role as a multicultural education support worker at Notre Dame College.
“Inspiring hope is something I am passionate about, and I am excited that it’s my turn to give back to the college after being a student here myself,” Tina said.
“I want students, like I once was, to look at me and think ‘If Tina can do it, then I can too’.
“It’s a significant role that identifies barriers and empowers cultural students, and I look forward to building strong positive connections with students, their families and staff.”
Alongside Tina’s new role at Notre Dame College, she is also a case manager at UnitingCare in Shepparton, helping new immigrants settle into the community.
“That was me once upon a time in the same situation,” Tina said.
“Needing to learn a new language while adapting to a new life and navigating local services.
“It can be a lot for some people.
“Everyone is unique in their own way, and I enjoy helping people not only to settle in but also to let them know it’s okay to hold on to their cultural identity while still striving for big things.”
Giving back to the community remains close to Tina’s heart.
Her completion in 2021 of a Bachelor of Health Sciences with a focus on public health is a testament to her commitment to creating a better world.
And quite often now, on weekends, she can be found working as a modelling and confidence coach, inspiring today’s youth into journeys of self-discovery.
“I am passionate about empowering people to identify their goals and interests and making them happen,” she said.
“I just want everyone in whatever setting I work in to reach their full potential.
“I am beyond blessed with how my life has turned out, and I want everyone to know that their dreams are worth chasing.
“Just keep focusing on the now and the future.”