Born to a Lebanese mother and a Syrian father, who left shortly after his birth, meant Fadi Chalouhy would spend the rest of his life as a stateless person.
Lebanese law prevents mothers from registering their children in Lebanon.
Illegal since birth, bullied and unwanted by society, Fadi's life journey was always going to be an up-hill battle. With no legal access to education, public health, drivers license or any kind of legal identification to say the the odds were stacked against him' was certainly an understatement!
In 2017, when all hope seemed lost, he received a response from Talents Beyond Boundaries, a non-government organisation that provides support to refugees. The organisation's aim is not to settle refugees in a safe country through humanitarian programs, but rather through skilled migrant schemes.
Somehow and against all the odds, Fadi was able to secure an education and work experience as he grew up in Lebanon, all as an illegal alien. In 2019 his life was to change forever when he became the first stateless person to be granted an Australian skilled migrant visa. Thanks to Talent Beyond Boundaries he was sponsored by an Australian entrepreneur. A new, exciting and hopeful chapter of his life had begun in a foreign land.
Fadi's remarkable story is truly profound and heartfelt. A story of perseverance, resilience and tenacity, told by a wonderfully gifted and charismatic speaker. Although his journey has been unimaginably hard, his tale is one of hope and triumph of the human spirit.
Talking Points
Fadi's Story
Fadi's talk can best be described by one word¦ Raw'. Fadi's Story
During his presentation Fadi takes the audience on an emotional roller-coaster as he shares intimate, confronting and inspiring stories.
Beginning life in a small village in the mountains of Lebanon right through to his journey to Australia. Fadi's life until he reached our shores has been hard, painful and full numerous obstacles. He was constantly told to give up on his dream to be a recognized citizen however through his tenacious and determined efforts he was finally given a chance.
Fadi's message is a simple one after his journey so far¦he truly believes anything is possible.
If an ordinary person like me can survive against all these odds, then just imagine what you can do with the opportunities you have in a country like Australia�
What your audience will learn¦
- How to find inspiration in the darkest of places
- Embracing fear, and doing it anyway
- Life is a bully, and it won't back down until you stand up to it
- You don't need an ID card to have an Identity
- Blaming others only gives them power over you
- There is no such thing as a self-made man
Video
My Story
Born to a Lebanese mother and a Syrian father, who left shortly after his birth, meant Fadi would spend the rest of his life as a stateless person. Lebanese law prevents mothers registering their children in Lebanon. Illegal since birth, bullied and unwanted by society, Fadi's life journey was always going to be an up-hill battle. With no legal access to education, public health, drivers license or any kind of legal identification to say the 'the odds were stacked against him' was certainly an understatement!Not only is Fadi's story profound and touching on a personal level, but the topics and themes are all topical. His innate charisma is an added gift to anyone fortunate enough to hear him spe ... keep reading Nadi Sha - Film maker, Director and Writer
I had the privilege to hear Fadi tell his life story. Fadi is an engaging speaker, who narrates with compassion and humor. Though a tale that includes much sorrow, his journey is ultimately a tale of hope, and an example of the triumph of the human spirit over significant adversity. To listen to him speak, is to share in an uplifting experience. I would without hesitation recommend Fadi as a speaker
Young and old were inspired and amazed by what he has achieved despite the massive obstacles. I recommend Fadi speaking at your next event to leave your guest feeling inspired and motivated, an enjoy an event they will never forget
