My name is Miss Esther Lahai. I am the first daughter to Mr and Mrs Isaiah Lahai. I was born in the refugee camp in Guinea, West Africa. This is my story. 

Growing up in the refugee camp was a nightmere and my parent were the source of hope and happiness for me. I can say my life is a miracle. I never thought I could be standing tall and beautiful today as you can see me in the picture on the left. As a child, I had a medical condition (blood pumping out in my heart) that almost prevented my family from coming to Australia. 

The Australian immigration asked my father to make a life changing decision. My dad was asked to either leave me in Africa and come with the rest of the family or risk not coming if he cannot leave me behind. My story is full of love and special grace from God. My parent demonstrated their love towards me by chosing to stay in Africa if I cannot come with them. This decision indeed make a difference in the life of my family. My parent are God fearing and loving, they put their faith in God and kept their faith in God.

One good morning, my dad received a message from his sister (my aunty) that the immigration has aggreed to resettle us into Australia on the condition that when we arrive in Australia, my family will take the responsibility for my medical treatment. My aunty needed my father’s consent, I remember vividly as a 7 year old seeing the smile on the face of my dad when he got the letter. I could literally see the smile of a loving father for his child and the faith of a man who has chosen to stay in refuge just to keep his daughter alive. I am indeed very greatful to my parent for the love they have shown from the day I was born to now. I can never ask for a better parent than them.

I am the eldest of five siblings (Ruth, Andrea, Isaiah Junior and Sarah). We are blessed to have God fearing parents who put us ahead of their own pleasure.