Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, community leader and former Maribyrnong councillor Cuc Lam tells Benjamin Millar she wants young women to heed her mother’s advice – never let your dreams be limited by other people’s views.
Tell us about your arrival in Australia?
I came to Australia in 1978 as a refugee from Vietnam. I escaped by boat. I think I was lucky at the time that Australia had Malcolm Fraser as Prime Minister and it was very sad to lose him recently. We look at him as a role model, as a father and as a supporter. The Vietnamese community was very sad to lose him.
How has this shaped your life?
I only wanted to help people, supporting people who are in need. Because I came as a refugee if I can help anyone I will help them, taking people to hospital or helping with interpreting. I enjoy helping very much. I was a councillor in Maribyrnong and I enjoyed that.
What do you love most about living in Maribyrnong?
I really love it in Maribyrnong, it’s very multicultural. I was a refugee living at the Midway Hostel and I really love this area. I enjoy Footscray Market and dining out at the Vietnamese restaurants and the Indian and African restaurants.
I enjoy walking around the river for an hour every morning before I go to work. I can hear the birds singing and I speak with people. It’s a very friendly neighbourhood, a very nice area.
How did you become involved in the photographic exhibition for International Women’s Day?
I’ve been involved with working with the council. They asked if I would like to be part of International Women’s Day for this year and I was very happy to do it. Coming from my culture I really wanted to share my story with other communities as well.
Who has been a role model in your life?
When I was a young girl my mother was a role model. My father passed away and my mother had to care for five children. She worked very hard, there was no welfare system. My mother always encouraged me to do whatever I can with no restrictions.
What is your message to young women in the area?
If they try they can do anything. I’d like to encourage young women to be involved with a leadership role, for their confidence and to be a role model for others. This is why I really encourage them to get involved in volunteering in support of the community.
I’ve been involved on a voluntary basis with Western Region Health Centre, the Migrant Resource Centre, the Western English Language School and the Vietnamese Community Association Victorian Chapter. I was accepted with open arms and I think I can give back.
Discover more about the story of Cuc Lam and other inspirational local women at an event to celebrate International Women’s Day at Braybrook library from 3-6.30pm Tuesday, March 8. Details: www.phoenixyouth.com.au
