"My children were all under six," she recalls. "It was about getting a better life and security, finding a safe place for my children and myself.

"I was very happy and so proud. Australia is a really good country."

Ms Baho, 52, has made her mark in Hume and been recognised for her hard work.

Along with Elwyn Davis, 74, of Sunbury, she was last week declared Hume's joint citizen of the year at an Australia Day ceremony.

Nadine Kotob, 20, of Craigieburn, was named young citizen of the year.

Ms Baho was recognised for her charity work with refugee women for the past 21 years.

"As a refugee I hope it [the award] will make people realise they can contribute and be recognised. I think it will inspire a lot of people."

Ms Baho said it was a real honour and surprise to be rewarded.

"There was a lot of excitement throughout the whole week. It wasn't expected. I was overwhelmed. It was a feeling I could never forget. I didn't think I could be recognised with this.

"It's the same feeling I had when I was first accepted to become a resident of Australia."

Ms Baho became an Australian citizen in 1994.

Ms Kotob was also recognised for her tireless charity work.

"I got the award for a combination of charity work and being involved with Amnesty International. I also helped out with Rise, which is a refugee organisation, and last year was involved with its music and arts festival."

Ms Kotob, also a member of the Hume Action Group,

is studying full-time at Melbourne University but still finds time to help others.

"I feel extremely honoured and appreciative of the award. I try to be a good role model for the youth and encourage more people to get involved."