Atong’s inspiring training journey began as a refugee from Sudan, learning to speak English when she arrived in Australia six years ago and now completing Year 12 at Our Lady’s College along with multiple vocational qualifications.

To achieve her lifelong goal of becoming a nurse and devoting herself to helping others, Atong completed a Certificate III in Individual Support at Celtic Training during her school holidays. She is also completing a Certificate III in Business and a Certificate III in Sport and Recreation at Binnacle Training, and a Certificate II in Salon Assistant at TAFE Queensland.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Atong has honed her communication, leadership and study skills while juggling school, her work, and being a role model to young African women involved in the cultural dance group at her school.

Atong will forever be grateful for the sacrifices her mother made to enable her education and career opportunities.