Biong Deng Biong works as Executive Officer for Edmund Rice Community and Refugee Services (ERCRS).
“What I’m really passionate about is improving social harmony and promoting equality and I was fortunate to secure a role at ERCRS where I can support others.”
Can you tell us about your background?
I arrived in Australia as a refugee from war-torn South Sudan in 2004. As a 9-year old, I was left alone with some boys around my age to trek from South Sudan to Ethiopia. We became known as the ìlost boysî of South Sudan. I ended up in Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya and was selected from thousands of other children for a scholarship which allowed me to complete my school education in Kenya.
How did you become involved in the Edmund Rice Network?
In 2004, I was offered a humanitarian visa to settle into Australia. After two weeks I started working as a carpenter. I studied and worked hard and have a Masters degree in Finance and Banking as well as a Graduate Certificate in Migration Law. But … what I’m really passionate about is improving social harmony and promoting equality and I was fortunate to secure a role at ERCRS where I can support others.
What inspires you most in your work?
My work has given me a chance to give back as others have given for me in the past.
What difference has the Edmund Rice program made to your life?
There are many areas but some key things have been improving my advocacy and leadership skills and building my sense of self-worth
