Leticia Bassler

Brazilian Leticia Bassler has never regretted for one minute her decision to leave her homeland and settle in the Northern Territory.

She is 47, which made her decision to emigrate even more momentous than usual.

“Changing your life like that when you are older is more difficult than when you are young,” she says. “But that didn’t prevent me from looking for a new and better life.”

Leticia already had a sister living in Australia, which made the decision easier.

And she came to Australia on two “try before you buy” missions before emigrating three years ago.

Leticia was a teacher and secretary in Brazil. She is now studying for a diploma of business and working as a cleaner.

She wants to work in an office after graduating.

“That’s what I know how to do.”

Leticia’s 19-year-old daughter Amanda was 16 when she arrived in the Territory and went to Darwin High School.

She made good friends and appreciates that her life in Darwin is “better and safer” than in Brazil.

Amanda got good grades in Year 12 and is now studying accounting at Charles Darwin University – and loves it.

The classes are hard, but she is a good student.

Mother and daughter enjoy Darwin.

“We really like living here. It’s a small city and a safe place. It’s got beautiful beaches, beautiful sunsets and a very nice waterfront."

“There are lots of natural places to enjoy in the NT.”