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Farhad Goudarzi shares his journey in Australia and how he built a career in engineering despite the challenges of moving to a new country. After arriving in 2008 to continue his engineering studies, Farhad faced long processing times to obtain permanent residency (a process that took nearly 28 months). Today, Farhad works in the health tech industry and is the co-founder of a startup developing a brain–computer interface that could help people communicate their thoughts through signals interpreted by machines. Drawing on his own experience, he shares practical advice for migrants pursuing professional careers in Australia: planning for delays in official processes, ensuring qualifications are properly certified, and actively building professional networks. Farhad’s story also shows how informal opportunities can make a difference. While at university, he joined a soccer group, which ultimately led to his first part-time job in his field. Reflecting on his journey, he encourages newcomers to stay resilient, embrace challenges and recognise the unique value their skills and cultural perspectives bring to their new home.