Joseph was lost at the age of eight and only found his family at the age of 16 in Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya.

Joseph’s family then came to Inverell, however he was left behind because his name was not on the visa.

Three years later Joseph was finally able to join his family in Inverell and started school in October 2007.

“I went to Macintyre High School where I did a two months of year 10 then did year 11 and 12,” Joseph said.

“Inverell is quite a small town and people are very friendly.

“I have settled in really well,” he said.

At Macintyre High School’s presentation night in December Joseph was awarded the RSM scholarship for tertiary study.

Joseph always wanted to work in the medical profession and was over joyed in January when he was accepted into Charles Sturt University at Wagga Wagga to study radiography.

“I am really looking forward to starting University on February 22.

“I have found a place to stay in student accommodation,” Joseph said.

After completing his degree Joseph hopes to get some experience in the radiography field before pursuing his dream of working for the United Nations in African refugee camps.

However he does admit he will miss Inverell.

“I have so many friends here so I will be sad but I am hoping to come back whenever I get a chance. The entire Inverell community has been very supportive of me especially Macintyre High School, RSM and Sanctuary Inverell, I am very thankful for their help,” Joseph said.

Sanctuary Inverell President Rosemary Breen said Joseph’s achievement in such a short time was a credit to his family.

“Everyone at Sanctuary Inverell wishes him all the best, we are very proud of him and I know he will do well.

“The support he has received from Macintyre High School has been amazing,” Rosemary said.