so what is the point if you cannot work? the documentation is hard to provide but there is discrimination in general. this is not easy, i spent all the money to come here and no way to stay now.
You may want to consult with a lawyer. I think you said you know people who have done this successfully. Did they work with a lawyer? Maybe consult with them?
Generally speaking, you want to show that you yourself have been the victim of discrimination and it should be at a level serious enough to warrant the refugee claim - i.e. your life is in danger, you are persecuted. There are some cases where a person can be successful with a claim with generalized evidence however this is more difficult generally.
The refugee claim cannot be economic bases, meaning you want to stay because you spent money. It has to be based on persecution. Another challenge you may face is why you are only claiming refugee status now and why you didn't file a claim earlier if your claim is genuine. This can result in a minister intervention. The late claim makes your situation more challenging.
Work permits are granted with refugee claims but you may not receive yours immediately. To the best of my knowledge you do not get implied status but wait for others here to comment.
Good luck.