Soe Mymnt Omtlang passed his driving test with
the help of instructor Belinda Berthaly, a volunteer with SCARF, a
community group which helps refugees in the Illawarra. Picture: ROBERT
PEET
Burmese refugee Soe Mymnt Omtlang once ran away at the sound of a car
horn but is now confident of getting behind the wheel after passing his
driving test.
Mr Omtlang, 32, said his provisional driving licence
had given him a new sense of freedom, thanks to help from volunteer
driving instructor Belinda Berthaly.
Before moving to Australia in
2007, Mr Omtlang lived on a farm. He didn’t have a licence and was not
used to seeing cars, let alone driving one.
‘‘Learning road
rules and how to be a pedestrian was a whole new experience for him,’’
said Mrs Berthaly who works at the NRMA and is a volunteer with
Strategic Community Assistance to Refugee Families (SCARF).
With an unwavering smile, Mr Omtlang said that getting his P-plates would open many new work opportunities.
He first obtained his learner’s permit in 2008 but put off driving lessons because he couldn’t afford them.
Now, having to provide for his wife and six-month-old baby, he is optimistic he will get a job and car with his new licence.
‘‘I feel free,’’ he said.
SCARF
helps the resettlement process for permanent resident refugees in the
region. Mrs Berthaly said: ‘‘I was absolutely ecstatic because I know
it’s going to be a big change for his life.’’
Source : http://www.illawarramercury.com.au
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