 Growing up in war-torn Sierra Leone, Mikhail Kalon has survived more trauma than most people can imagine. 10, 15 years ago I never believed I would actually be in an educational environment where there's no gunshot. I'm not running out of class because of somebody shooting or something. Since arriving on a humanitarian visa in 2000, Mikhail says Australia has allowed him to achieve all of his dreams. I love my job. That makes everyday special for me in this place because you don't get that much. Mikhail works at the Beverly Hills Intensive English Centre, helping children who've just arrived in Australia to feel at home. He gives such positive encouragement and such good messages to our kids about the value of study and the value of working hard even when it's a bit boring sometimes to get a better life in the long run. That positive can do attitude clearly rubbing off. They helped me improve my English and they prepared me so well for high school which gave me confidence to cope with my assignment and go to high school as well. Yeah, I really enjoyed it. I have many friends now. In fact, I'm even playing basketball. I enjoyed it really. It's good. It's fantastic. Mikhail is now planning a trip to Sierra Leone at the end of 2009 to take educational equipment to children in need. He says it's his life in Australia that gives him inspiration for the ambitious project. I loved Australia. I adore Australia. I tell ya, I've been in Australia for eight years. I have been blessed. Meanwhile, in Melbourne, another youth worker is making a real difference. Sudanese humanitarian entrant Mathur Machar teaches sports like basketball and soccer to children from all over the world. What I like about working with young people is the fact that it's rewarding and you see young people making changes and seeing young person coming to tell you thank you for the direction you have shown me really is what is fulfilling about the job and that's what I love it most. In 2002, Mathur arrived in Australia after surviving 10 years in a refugee camp. Since then, he's completed a tertiary degree and started a traineeship program in youth work at the City of Greater Dandenong Council. That's what is good about Australia. It's a land of, you know, it has paid chances and everyone has an opportunity to do what they want to do. Mathur's hard work receiving some well-deserved recognition in 2008 when he was named Australian Apprentice Trainee of the Year. The award funding a joyful and emotional trip to Sudan. Everyone back home after 20 years was really different. I went back home, everyone was waiting for me and I met my mom after a long time.