Joao is a Lifestyle Coordinator at St George's Court Care Home in Cambridge and recently celebrated his new status as a UK citizen.
Joao was born and raised in Dili, the capital of East Timor located in Southeast Asia. As a colony of Portugal, Joao can speak fluent Indonesian, English, and some Portuguese too.
After growing up and studying in his home country, Joao decided he wanted to find out more about the UK, explore the country, and learn about what life was like as he heard about the high standards of education and healthcare, alongside the wealth of career opportunities.
After taking the leap and moving to the UK, Joao enrolled in an English Language course at Great Yarmouth University, whilst seeking part-time employment to support himself and his family. Joao worked incredibly hard and after completing his English Language course, he enrolled in a Health and Social Care course at Anglia Ruskin University in London.
Joao is passionate about helping people and believed his Health and Social Care Course would support his ambition to work in a care home and improve the lives of vulnerable people. The diversity of the role was also an attractive prospect for Joao, as it would give him the opportunity to work alongside people from all different walks of life.
Joao successfully passed his Health and Social Care Degree at Anglia Ruskin University and successfully secured a role at St Georges Court Care Home.
His knowledge of the English language had improved since arriving in the UK, but he still struggled to speak the language fluently, so the team ensured Joao had the support he needed, and over time, interacting with the team and residents, Joao began to feel like one of the family and his English continued to improve each day.
When asked about what he enjoys about his role, Joao said, “It is extremely rewarding. Going home knowing that you have improved the quality of someone’s day and in turn, their quality of life can make it all feel extremely worthwhile. Whether someone needs minimal support or a full personal care plan, you are having a different impact on their quality of life.”
Joao loved his role and new life in the UK, so he decided to apply for citizenship!
“It was a long process,” Joao said, and there were multiple tests he had to study for and pass before being considered, but much like everything Joao puts his mind to, he passed each knowledge test with ease.
His dream for a new life in the UK finally came true this year, as Joao was invited to a Naturalisation Ceremony to celebrate his citizenship!
Congratulations Joao your journey and determination should act as an inspiration for others to follow their dreams.