Newcastle’s Newest Citizens Take the Pledge of a Lifetime

Today, the City of Newcastle welcomed 179 new Australians from six continents, as they took the pledge of commitment in an emotional citizenship ceremony at City Hall.

Among those becoming citizens were Sathish Clastinrusselraj Indirathankam, 43, and Minimalar Thankamani, 40, from India. The couple met at church and began raising their daughters, Shanice, 9, and Shawna, 6, in Tamil Nadu before settling in Elermore Vale.

Dr Sathish, a Senior Lecturer in Engineering at the University of Newcastle, toured Australia in 2018 as a visiting scientist, and the family soon decided to call Australia home.

“Our first moments in Australia were a whirlwind of emotions,” Dr Sathish said. “As we stepped into Australia, it was so different from what we were used to. We were struck by the friendliness of the people we met, which immediately made us feel at ease.”

He added that Newcastle’s natural beauty has played a big part in their transition. “Newcastle’s beaches, parks, and forests offer endless outdoor activities and relaxation, helping us connect with the Australian way of life.”

Another new citizen, Mary Amponsah, 35, began a new chapter in her life today. Originally from Kumasi, Ghana, Mary’s journey led her from the shanties of her hometown to earning a PhD in Economics at the University of Newcastle. She was the oldest child following the loss of her brother and father, and a scholarship brought her to Australia for the first time, leaving behind her family in Africa.

Her arrival in Australia was made smoother by a kind-hearted taxi driver, but her true safe harbour has been Sister Diana Santleben, founder of Zara’s House and a Newcastle refugee advocate. Sister Diana took Dr Amponsah under her wing, mentoring her in her role as a financial administrator.

“I was shy when I first arrived, but Newcastle has helped me become more confident,” Dr Amponsah said. “Seeing how open and approachable people are here has really helped me to open up. I’m also glad I have gardening with Sister Di.”

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes shared her pride in welcoming the new citizens, highlighting the diversity of Newcastle.

“We live in a vibrant, multicultural community that includes speakers of more than 130 languages, with almost 20 per cent of our residents born overseas,” Cr Nelmes said.

“I congratulate all of today’s new citizens, who join over 340 people to have taken the pledge in Newcastle this year.”