Jess's childhood of rich cultural traditions and generational teachings was met with narrow-minded and closed off differences. She spoke two languages in her house as a child, and neither one was the mother tongue of the country she grew up in.

Navigating the minefield of early adolescence and parental refugee assimilation, she focused on her education to increase future opportunities and chances. An ultimatum left her and her mum to fend for themselves and change directions in her educational pathway.

Though she appreciated the opportunities the surroundings provided, she was destined for a life outside the 'golden cage' and a return to her cultural roots.

This is the story of how seeing things for what they were brought more connection to her life and family than if she walked the road most travelled. If you would like to se ...