Language is key in connecting with culture

2025 Community Languages Teacher Medal, sponsored by NSW Department of Education.

“When I arrived in Australia, everything was different,” Maida said.

“I was trying to find my place. I felt very homesick.”

Maida arrived in Australia from Bosnia during the region’s war in the 1990s. She’d recently completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Slavic Languages and Literature, and was continuing her study at Sydney’s Macquarie University.

“My mum, in her wisdom, suggested I volunteer at the Bosnian Ethnic School, and I immediately felt connected to my roots and culture,” she explained.

Now 30 years on, Maida is the principal and teacher at the school, helping people with Bosnian heritage find that same connection. She works as part of a team of six teachers, who are all committed to passing on Bosnian culture to the next generation.

“Every day is fulfilling and rewarding,” Maida said.

“I feel a deep sense of responsibility to the students – I know how important culture is to me and I want to give them the same experience.”

The school has around 120 students, and while language is a core focus, it’s not all about fluency.

“We don’t just teach Bosnian language, we celebrate the customs, traditions and values that make that part of the world special,” said Maida.

“Most of our students were born here. We want them to be proud of their culture, and leave feeling confident to travel to their ancestral home.”

In her time at the Bosnian Ethnic School, Maida has built strong community links. These have given students access to workshops with acclaimed Bosnian writers, public speaking opportunities and the chance to engage with students in Bosnia.

Maida also recognised the impact of transgenerational trauma from the war in Bosnia in the 1990s. She has engaged with the NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS) to ensure that people from the community are aware of available services.

So after three decades, and so many students through the doors – are there any memories that stand out?

“Every student is special to me,” Maida said.

“I remember one of our students was extremely shy. She was practically invisible when we were doing a group activity.

“I encouraged her to share an idea but didn’t push her too hard. It turns out she had a unique perspective and it was her time to shine. She’s now doing great.”

It’s also very common for Maida to be teaching the children of past students.

“It’s wonderful to see former students bringing their children in to learn – a great endorsement of the work we do,” she said.

“Overall, the most beautiful part is helping people grow and socially adjust. I was once in their shoes. I know what it’s like.”

For her tireless work with the Bosnian Ethnic School, Maida is the worthy recipient of Multicultural NSW’s 2025 Community Languages Teacher Medal.