Hazara Nation

Blacktown-based Sudanese refugee Faustino A'boka believes he's got a debt to pay to Australia for helping him start a new life.

And to do so he has started working as a volunteer of the Australian Red Cross Calling Appeal.

Mr A'boka, chairman, Equatoria Community Welfare Association and a former charity recipient, has collected $120 (including a personal donation of $7) and from door-to-door travels in his furst four days around residential Prospect.
"This is the first time since my arrival in Australia in 2001 I have collected donation for the Australian Red Cross," he said.

"The organisation is very selective about its volunteers as they are very careful about picking only responsible volunteers."

Mr A'boka said that despite being given an official receipt book, identification badge and a Red Cross bag, convincing people of legitimacy was a tough task.

"But I really feel good as I am now returning the favour given to me when Australia opened its door to my family and other refugees," he said.

According to information provided to Mr A'boka, the money raised would be used by the Red Cross to help HIV victims, families in crisis, those affected by natural disasters and other humanitarian works across the world.

Mr A'boka, who works as a casual teacher, also offers his service as interpreter in the Blacktown and Nepean areas and is trying to raise $150,000 for his organisation.

"We are getting there. Our Sudanese Awareness Night raised about $13,000 - that includes the $12,000 discount offered by Lander Toyota for the purchase of their vehicles."