Refugees and migrants living in the Macarthur area will share their stories in celebration of Refugee Week, which starts on Monday 15 June.

Council will share a story per day on its Facebook page next week, focusing on the experiences coming to Australia and living in the Macarthur area, and honouring this year’s Refugee Week theme, ‘Celebrating the Year of Welcome’.

Mount Annan resident and Council Cohesive Communities Advisory Group member, Sana Al-Ahmar, said it was important to help refugees and migrants integrate into the community.

“There is so much to see and do in Camden including the beautiful nature and great people which makes it so welcoming,” Ms Al-Ahmar said.

“I came to Australia from Iraq over 30 years ago and have lived in Mount Annan for 18 years. Since 2008 I have been part of the Cohesive Communities Group where we actively support those new to the area.

“I also work as a settlement case worker and help provide the right services and right path for new migrants and refugees across the Macarthur area. There are so many beautiful and amazing stories that end in people living in this area which is fantastic, and it is great to be in such a welcoming community.”

Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said Refugee Week provided an opportunity for people to recognise and better understand the courage and contribution of refugees.

“We live in a vibrant and multicultural community and Refugee Week is a chance to celebrate all of us living together and welcoming each other,” Cr Fedeli said.

“Everyone deserves a safe place to live as well as have a new start and I am proud to say Camden is welcoming of all backgrounds and faiths.

“Working together as one makes us stronger and I look forward to hearing the stories of our local migrants and refugees.”

For more information and to view the videos, go to Council’s Facebook page from Monday 15 June.