“My mother was my inspiration. She patiently taught me and encouraged me to do what brought me joy. My name is Sorayya Rasouli Shemirani, I am originally from Iran and I thankfully settled in Geelong in 2014.
“In Iran, I finished high school and completed certificate IV in accounting. I worked in accounting for 5 years.
“Unfortunately, my Iranian qualifications and work, were not recognized in Australia, so I had to do the same course here. I completed accounting and bookkeeping Certificate IV at the Gordon TAFE in Geelong and certificate II financial literacy capability.
“I’ve been involved in volunteering in Geelong. Also, I have been participating in projects with the NDIS and the Barwon Disability Resource Council.
“In Iran, I was involved in swimming and wheelchair racing.
“In Australia, I am involved in table tennis and dance group but that’s been via Zoom during Covid.
“I grew up in an artistic family, surrounded by arts and crafts. My mother was my inspiration. She patiently taught me and encouraged me to do what brought me joy. I was interested in art and craft. I started learning Abstract Painting in a community Centre in 2019. I submitted my first painting in an exhibition last year in Geelong.
“When Covid struck, I continued painting at home. This hobby filled my time and made it easier for me to go through the long, lonely isolation days.
“I am busy completing my paintings and I would be excited to see you at the exhibition of my paintings next year.” If you are interested in Sorayya’s artwork (more images on our Facebook and Instagram) you can email her at sshemirani@gmail.com
Photos of Sorayya’s artwork supplied.
HuG 