From McDonald’s to Leadership: Yohana Jury’s Immigrant Journey

Yohana Jury, an Australia-based immigrant from Indonesia, shares her story and insights. She grew up in a small town in Indonesia and moved to Australia on a scholarship to pursue a master's degree in her desired field of study. While there, she met the man who would later become her husband, which led her to stay in the country to start a family.

Throughout the conversation, Yohana opens up about the difficulties she faced in finding a job that aligns with her skills. Despite holding local credentials and professional experience from overseas, she initially had to work at McDonald's to gain her first Australian work experience. Today, she has achieved her dream career, but her journey required immense effort and perseverance.

Yohana offers practical insights for other immigrants navigating their integration journey. She emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community, cultivating self-belief, and persevering during difficult times. Ultimately, she encourages migrants to work hard and take pride in their efforts, even if it means starting at a lower level.

To connect with Yohana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yohanajury/

Chapters:

(00:00) - Welcome and introduction to Johana Jury

(02:26) - Growing up in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

(04:02) - Early teaching career and daily life differences

(06:08) - Earning a scholarship and moving to Australia

(07:24) - Culture shock and adjusting to the Australian accent

(10:36) - University experience and navigating language barriers

(13:32) - The struggle to find work after graduation

(15:00) - Starting from scratch with a job at McDonald's

(18:01) - Lessons in resilience and helping other migrants

(20:16) - Building confidence and navigating identity

(28:27) - Advice on belonging, community, and making Australia home

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I was your host Emma Bellamy, and I can’t wait to bring you on another journey From There to Here!

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This podcast brought to you in partnership with Kintsugi Heroes. To find out more, head to kintsugiheroes.com.au.