Ten months after arriving in Australia from Afghanistan, Rabia Johini was learning how to swim. More than 40 newly-arrived Afghan women were taking free weekly classes run by non-profit community organization, Afghan Women on the Move, held in a private indoor pool with female swimming instructors. The women wore matching burkinis and tie-dye swimming caps. "We had women who [experienced] their first time in the water, so for them it was a life-changing experience," says AWOTM founder Maryam Zahid. Royal Life Saving Australia said that research shows tailored, culturally appropriate swimming and water safety programs can help engage multicultural communities. AWOTM also offers free driving lessons for 20 newly-arrived Afghan women. Driving instructor Tooba Lasu said there had been overwhelming demand. "They are happy with me teaching them because we speak the same language," she said.
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