Ted was born in Sudan, but had to flee for his life and for the first 25 years of his life he only knew suffering. He found temporary refuge in Ethiopia before seeking asylum and receiving protection via special humanitarian visa to Australia in 2000.
“Coming to Alice was the best thing that happened to me. I fled Sudan and Ethiopia due to religious and persecution and war, which forced me to become a refugee. The best thing about living in Alice is living in freedom – freedom from fear or persecution – and having peace of mind.”
“My favourite thing to do is playing music, I sing, and play the drums, guitar and piano. I have composed two songs about peace and love. These are things that are so easy to take for granted when you get them every day but are so precious.”
“The way I have given back to Australia and Alice Springs has been by sharing my music with our community. When I first arrived, I would busk in Todd Mall. I enjoyed playing for people while I searched for my first job here. The work I found was at Alice Springs hospital as an orderly and cleaner where I worked for many years.
“It was not all smooth sailing living in Alice. I had my house broken into on several occasions and have had my brain busted by intruders. I am glad to be safe now at this retirement home at 76 years of age. Life as a refugee was miserable for the first 25 years of my life as a refugee and now I live in peace.”
