David living his citizenship dream
Pictured: David with partner Carly and children Venus and Marte.
David Rubin de Celis Leal says he lived a dream formally becoming an Australian citizen.
He was a long way from his home in Mexico’s arid heart as he made his ceremonial pledge in Council’s Torquay chambers.
“But an official seal from the government to accept me as an Australian. Knowing that you have this place that is yours – that this country is now mine with everyone else. That is a great feeling,” he reflected.
“It was very exciting and very meaningful, and a dream come true.”
David shifted to Australia from Mexico in 2011 with intention of returning home after a few years of study.
That plan never quite eventuated, and now settled in Deans Marsh with partner Carly Merlo, children Venus, 7, and Marte, 4, and working via his PhD in advanced materials he feels a little blessed.
“It’s heaven, the community where we live here is absolutely amazing,” he says.
Council hosts at least five citizenship ceremonies each year on behalf of the Australian Department of Home Affairs, and David is one of 112 people from dozens of different countries to have become new citizens in the shire during 2023.
While each person pledges to embrace the ideals and expectations of Australian citizenship, none are expected to renounce anything of their cultural identities, customs or traditions.
David rejoices in sharing his Mexican culture with his Australian community through food, dance, song and stories.
And he rejoices in knowing that his passionate heart has two homes.
Learn more about attaining Australian citizenship by visiting the Australian Immigration website or phoning the information line on 13 18 80.