The Wollongong Australia Day Citizen and Achievement Awards hosted by Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery included a special treat when Sako Dermenjian took the stage.
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Cr Bradbery was so impressed by Sako when they met in 2015 he invited him to perform in a special part of the evening called Why Australia, Why Wollongong.
Sako originally came from Armenia and then Syria and ended up in Wollongong after the United Nations told his family they would be relocated to Australia after spending two years in Lebanon. He spoke of how war and conflict eventually led his family to the Illawarra.
“Before arriving in Australia the only thing I knew about this country were kangaroos and good universities,” he said.
After arriving he found a new home, learned a new language, completed several TAFE courses and has joined a band that performs at festivals and will be part of Australia Day activities.
“We will be in the park..I want you all to come along,” he said.
“My family and I have been in Wollongong for a year. I enjoy the relaxed laid-back attitude. You Australians have very big hearts. My father has been able to secure work in Wollongong but my mother is still having trouble having her Masters Degree in Biochemistry and Life Science...recognised.”
Because of the opportunities in this country Sako’s family all now have a dream about what they would like to be. His is in teaching and business.
“Wollongong is a beautiful place which I proudly call home. I would like to wish you all a happy Australia Day”.
Sako said he had met some wonderful people, such as Lee Robinson, who had helped him so much. He then played three pieces of music that impressed everyone. The Lord Mayor invited him to play after hearing him at an annual meeting of Illawarra Multicultural Services.
“I was sitting there and after the presentations this incredible human being got up. Sako is a Syrian refugee. He is one of the most talented individuals..and classical guitar is one of my most favourites. I just had to invite him to play tonight. Anyone who has a job for Sako please let me know. We want him employed and we want him to stay in Wollongong,” Cr Bradbery said.