A WOMAN who lost her entire family and fled from her native country has been rewarded for grasping learning opportunities and helping others.

Jacqueline Djasrabe (pictured) from Bromley, was the overall winner at the Bromley Community Learning Awards held in the Civic Centre, Stockwell Close, Bromley.

Miss Djasrabe fled Chad five years ago as a refugee and then, while in the UK, learned English and took courses, including one to become a community interpreter.

She was nominated by Susan Wroe from the Bromley Refugee Network because of the help and inspiration she offers other refugees.

The 36-year-old, who is based at the St Paul's Cray drop-in centre, Cotmandene Crescent, St Paul's Cray, said: "I work hard but I did not realise I was going to win.

"I am very happy."

She says she is much more confident now than when she first arrived in the UK.

Miss Djasrabe also feels she is becoming a more useful member of the community.

Bromley Lifelong Learning Partnership, which promotes adult learning, organised the awards.

It allows colleges, tutors and other community organisations to nominate any adult learners whose achievements have been life-changing or inspirational.