Jon

My name is Jon and I arrived in Darwin in June 2022. Prior to travelling here, I lived in Manila, Philippines, where there are many similarities to Darwin. Both cities have a tropical climate, are near the sea, and both have spectacular views of the sunset. I immediately felt right at home. My journey to becoming a student was very interesting as initially, I was just supposed to visit my family and relatives, and stay for a short while. Aside from visiting some of the Northern Territory’s (NT) unique attractions and natural landscapes during my stay as a visitor, I experienced its rich culture, efficient public services, immersed with its diverse communities, and interacted with its warm and welcoming people. There were also many opportunities available for incoming international students. Eventually, I decided to apply for a student visa onshore and pursue a vocational education that I am very passionate about, in the hope of making a positive impact in the lives of the handicapped and elderly.

Since then, I became involved with an organisation caring for people with mental disability. It is a rewarding experience knowing that in my own simple way, I am able to encourage and empower individuals to live their lives as normally and comfortably as possible, despite their condition. Likewise, I am also looking forward to the volunteer work with aged care that I will be doing in the coming months.

It has been an amazing journey so far for me as an international student in the Northern Territory, and I am ecstatic that I will have the chance to share this experience and promote what the place can offer in abundance. I cannot wait to see and explore more of this amazing place, and meet new people along the way.