Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll inductees 2024

Dr Francis Roger Acquah AM, Managing Director of Positive Wellness Recovery Centre (PWRC), is a trailblazer in mental health and multicultural advocacy. Through PWRC, the Mental Health and Well-Being Foundation, and Project Sunrise, he empowers diverse communities in Victoria with innovative support, creating lasting positive change with compassion and dedication.

Francis actively promotes cultural exchange through his involvement in the Akwaaba Cultural group and has held leadership roles in various community organisations, including serving as President of the Rotary Club of Greensborough.

Associate Professor Josefine Antoniades has made an exceptional contribution to multiculturalism in Victoria through her dedicated work with culturally and linguistically diverse communities, particularly in dementia prevention and promoting health equity for multicultural seniors.

As part of the Moving Pictures project, Josefine played a key role in developing short films about dementia awareness, aimed at Arabic, Hindi, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tamil, Spanish, Italian, Greek, and Vietnamese-speaking communities. Her efforts to create accessible, culturally relevant resources and her commitment to mentoring future researchers have had a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of these communities.

Dilnaz Billimoria, a multilingual migrant Indian woman, of the ancient Zoroastrian faith, has volunteered with not-for-profit organisations, communities and corporations in the Eastern Metropolitan Region in Melbourne for 20 years. Dilnaz co-founded the Whitehorse, Boroondara and Manningham Interfaith Networks to establish a common platform for discussions to foster harmony and promote peace.

As a board member of Women’s Health East (WHE), she is instrumental in supporting initiatives to create positive impact strategies for victims and survivors, with primary prevention of family violence being a focus. She is also a member of the Eastern Health Community Advisory and Diversity Equity Inclusion Committees advocating for seldom heard voices to be prioritised.

Fabiola Campbell, founder of Professional Migrant Women, empowers migrant women to overcome barriers, thrive in their careers, and give back to their communities. Her initiatives, including the book, Undefeated, challenge stereotypes, foster inclusion, and amplify the voices and contributions of migrant women, making a lasting impact on Victoria’s multicultural communities.

As a member of the Regional Advisory Council for the Victorian Multicultural Commission and a Council Member of the Harmony Alliance, Fabiola provides strategic advice on policies that promote inclusivity and support for multicultural women. Additionally, Fabiola’s involvement in the Community Engagement Advisory Panel at Polaron Language Services and as a research partner with ANROWS-Monash University demonstrates her commitment to addressing critical issues such as workplace sexual harassment and the provision of culturally sensitive services.

Maryum Chaudhry has made exceptional contributions to multiculturalism in Victoria over the last two decades through her leadership and executive experience in the for-purpose, public sector and other industries. Her achievements in gender equity, social cohesion, education, and mental health create a strong foundation for continuous improvement in multicultural communities. She has been an Australian delegate for DFAT Malaysia and Indonesia program, alumni of the Williamson Community Leadership Program and the Inaugural Melbourne Forum Fellowship.

Maryum has actively engaged with and reported to numerous boards and committees, including the Holmesglen Institute Board, Inner North Community Foundation Funding Advisory Committee, Women’s Legal Service of Victoria, Victorian Multicultural Commission, Centre for Muslim Wellbeing, Islamic Council of Victoria, Sanad Foundation, Multicultural Museums Victoria, CARE With ME, Multifaith Advisory Group Committee, Victoria Police Multicultural Steering Committee, Faith Communities Councils of Victoria Steering Committee, City of Darebin Anti-Racism Committee, AFL Multicultural Community Ambassador, Mercy Mission Australia, Muslim Women’s Council of Victoria Inc and RMIT Pakistani Student Association.

Wesa Chau is one of Australia’s most influential voices and foremost thought leaders on multiculturalism and cultural diversity. She is currently the Managing Director of Multicultural Leadership Initiative, a national non-profit organisation that aims to uplift the voices of culturally and linguistically diverse people to shape solutions address climate change.

Wesa has been recognised through numerous awards such as the 40 Under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australian Awards in 2020 as the category winner in education, an Australian Leadership Award in 2013, the Young Victorian of the Year Award in 2010, and was an inductee to the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2012.

Lyda Dankha has devoted three decades to Victoria’s settlement sector and supported Assyrian, Chaldean, and Syrian communities for over 45 years. Her efforts in capacity building, cultural integration, youth empowerment, advocacy and crisis support have made a significant difference in the Hume area, enriching the many migrant and refugee communities she has worked with.

Lyda has a history of assisting Arabic and Assyrian-speaking women in Victorian hospitals to navigate the health system and been innovative in developing the Drive with Arabic Welfare program with Vic Roads to train newcomers on road safety and secure their license. Lyda co-founded the Australian Assyrian Chaldean Syriac Advocacy Network (AACSAN) which recognised gaps in culturally responsive COVID information, providing updates and in-language resources, addressing high transmission rates.

Derya Deniz Demirol is a dynamic leader who fosters impactful progress through strategic partnerships and individual empowerment within multicultural communities. By building strong relationships, creating inclusive programs, and enhancing access to services and employment opportunities, she promotes resilience, fosters growth, and champions positive change, driving long-term transformation across diverse populations.

Derya’s mentorship has notably improved employment outcomes for culturally and linguistically diverse job seekers connecting them with employers and resources to enhance job readiness. Derya has been instrumental in designing and implementing programs tailored to multicultural needs. A few highlights of her initiatives include establishing the first citizenship course in Gippsland, setting up an IELTS course and a family day care program for migrants.

Sivanthi Gurumurothy’s exceptional dedication to multiculturalism in Victoria is marked by her tireless advocacy, leadership, and support for culturally and linguistically diverse communities. As a skilled interpreter and community leader, she has bridged cultural divides, empowered marginalised groups, and fostered integration, making a lasting impact on Victoria’s multicultural landscape.

Sivanthi's linguistic skills in Tamil, Malay, Indonesian, and Malayalam have been pivotal in bridging communication gaps across various sectors, including non-profit organisations, government departments, and support services. Sivanthi’s work in immigration detention settings, including on Christmas Island and Nauru, has been crucial in supporting detainees and asylum seekers, ensuring their access to essential services and fostering understanding across cultural divides. Her role in leading the Tamil Refugee and Asylum Seeker Health Literacy project highlights her dedication to addressing health disparities in culturally diverse communities, reflecting her commitment to tailored, culturally sensitive solutions.

Joseph Haweil is recognised leader with considerable experience in strategic and social planning, local government, community development and advocacy. Joseph has championed full and inclusive participation of diverse communities in the social, cultural, economic and political life of Victoria and shaped programs and policies that achieve this. Joseph participates in a wide range of boards, taskforces and advisory committees covering jobs and skills, regional growth and redevelopment, local government and language services.

As a Councillor on Hume City Council since 2016 and two-time Mayor (2020-21 and 2022-23), Joseph's contributions have also extended to a multitude of leadership roles across the arts and culture, ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, human rights advocacy, philanthropy, cultural awareness and community empowerment. As the most prominent and respected civic leader of Victoria’s Assyrian community, Joseph’s efforts have fostered greater civic engagement, enhanced social cohesion and ensured beneficial settlement outcomes.

Aayushi Khillan is a trailblazing youth leader, philanthropist and entrepreneur dedicated to advancing youth leadership and health education amongst multicultural communities. As the founder of Body Buddies and a passionate advocate, her impactful work has empowered diverse communities, inspired future generations, and earned her multiple prestigious accolades.

Aayushi's role as the youngest and only youth representative on the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) Board underscores her dedication to integrating multicultural perspectives into education. She has actively engaged in national and international conferences, advocating for the inclusion of multicultural voices in STEM and youth policy through her work on the Australian Government Youth Advisory Board.

Gary Yew Foo Lee exemplifies outstanding leadership in promoting multiculturalism, inspiring others with his vision and commitment. Gary’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and respect has significantly impacted communities. Gary’s contribution to international student health and wellbeing and employability spans over two decades and includes notable achievements including an Order of Australia (OAM) in 2023 for his service to community.

Gary is a key organising member of numerous Melbourne festivals including the annual Colours of Malaysia, African Music and Cultural Festival and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. He has also managed 17 Lord Mayor Student Welcome events since 2009. Gary sits on numerous committees for the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Crime Stoppers, AFL Multicultural Program and the North Melbourne Football Club The Huddle. Gary has also previously served as a board member of Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV).

Dr Morley Muse is a trailblazer in promoting diversity in STEM. Co-founder of iSTEM Co. and DEIR.AI, she empowers multicultural women to succeed in STEM fields by dismantling recruitment biases and advocating for inclusion. Her visionary leadership is transforming STEM, creating lasting impact for future generations. As a Nigerian-Australian, she has dedicated her career to dismantling systemic barriers for women of colour, migrant, refugee, and First Nations women in STEM.

Dr Muse's efforts, as a founder of the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Club during her PhD, and her continued work with STEM Sisters, exemplify her commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for culturally and linguistically diverse women. Her leadership extends to her roles on national and international boards, including the Diversity Council Australia’s RISE Expert Panel, where she works to break down systematic barriers for culturally and racially marginalised women in Australia.

Tony Le Nguyen is a visionary leader known for his groundbreaking work in the arts and community development. His innovative approach has driven significant advancements, earning him acclaim for both his strategic impact and commitment to excellence. Tony’s achievements reflect his dedication to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional results. His pioneering work in multicultural arts, particularly in bringing Vietnamese-Australian stories to the forefront through theatre, film, and television, has been inspirational.

Tony’s advocacy in media and entertainment has increased the representation of Asian Australians, promoting inclusivity and encouraging future generations to embrace diversity. As Vice President of the Melbourne Living Museum of the West, Tony preserved immigrant community histories, enriching future generations’ understanding of cultural heritage. Tony's commitment to community development is evident through his founding of The Drama Lab in Vietnam and his extensive work with educational institutions and community organisations in both Australia and Vietnam. Tony Le Nguyen’s legacy of empowerment, community building, and cultural pride inspires others to advocate for justice, inclusion, and celebration.

Professor Manjula O’Connor is Indian-born award-winning psychiatrist, clinician, researcher, reviewer of journals, community leader, educator, advocate, changemaker, author of acclaimed book Daughters of Durga. Her clinical, research, community-based education, and advocacy work around family violence in Indian and broader South Asian and multicultural community has produced enduring change.

in 2012 she co-founded AustralAsian Centre for Human Rights and Health, empowering communities through education and research. Manjula pioneered the innovative community education method, community participatory theatre, published papers and influenced service providers. She facilitated change in Victorian Laws with the inclusion of dowry abuse and influenced the Royal Australian College of Psychiatrists to establish a Family Violence Working Group from 2014.

Professor Nicholas John Papastergiadis is regarded as one of Australia’s major cultural theorists, who has made important contributions to the development of arts and cultural policies. His understanding of the core principles of multiculturalism, through his scholarship and teaching at the University of Melbourne and deep engagement with Australia’s multicultural communities, is globally recognised through bilateral relations between Greece and Australia, and collaborations with peak industry bodies and institutions overseas.

Nikos has published more than 12 books and over 100 academic papers, most of which have highlighted the contribution of immigrants in transforming Australia’s cultural landscape, the changing modalities of migration processes, and the politics of intercultural exchange. As an arts critic, his writings on Australian artists, both Indigenous and migrant, are widely acclaimed around the world. Nikos has served on numerous committees advocating for the diverse voices to be heard in Australia’s civic culture.

Miriam Silva AM is a visionary leader and advocate for multiculturalism with a profound impact on diverse communities. As a champion of inclusion, she empowers migrant and refugee women through her leadership and mentorship, driving systemic change that inspires future generations and fosters an inclusive, equitable society. Her leadership in education is exemplified through her role in delivering the 2023 Crescent Awards, which celebrate excellence in Muslim education. As a mentor to multicultural women, particularly through her work with NOOR Survivor-Advocates and in the broader community, Miriam empowers those she supports to lead with confidence and resilience.

As Chair of inTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence, Miriam’s guidance has been instrumental in developing culturally tailored, trauma-informed services for women facing family violence. Miriam also serves as Chair of Contemporary Arts Precincts, Board Member of AMES Australia and the Centre for Muslim Wellbeing. Her contributions have been widely recognised, including being named one of Australia’s inaugural 100 Women of Influence in the 2012 Westpac and AFR Awards and receiving the 2012 Governor’s Multicultural Award for the Private Sector.

A Walkley-nominated, multi-award winning journalist, editorial leader and author, Manpreet Kaur Singh has served multicultural audiences for over 31 years in various roles at SBS, where she currently works as Program Manager, overseeing SBS South Asian and SBS Spice. Manpreet has set a high benchmark for in-language journalism, with investigative stories like The Enemy Within winning international, national, state and community awards, including UNAA Media Peace Award, New York Festivals, Victorian Legal Reporting Award, and Victorian Multicultural Award of Excellence in 2011 and 2013.

Her outstanding original reporting in Punjabi and English has covered political affairs, societal issues, family/ domestic violence, human rights, international education, health, community matters, multiculturalism, mental health, social justice issues, sports, entertainment, and Indian-Australian historical connections. She has served on Our Watch Media Advisory Group to build a framework for ethical reporting of family violence matters, joined the Police Indian Western reference group to discuss violence against Indian international students and actively been involved in AFL’s Multicultural program as a pioneering commentator.

Dalal Sleiman works with dedication to address and reduce family violence within the Chaldean, Assyrian, Syriac and Arabic speaking communities. As a former refugee herself, she understands barriers to equity and equality and designs practical solutions with inclusion at the core. She has delivered community events, a yoga-based family violence recovery program, and regularly runs family violence workshops to change attitudes and behaviours in the community. As Chairperson of the Chaldean Family Welfare Association of Victoria, Dalal has made a significant impact on the lives of thousands of multicultural community members, especially women.

Dalal is a contributing member of the Victorian Multicultural Commission Regional Advisory Council, the Northern Health Patient Experience Advisory Committee, and the Northern Health Cultural Diversity Governance Committee. Dalal was also Chairperson of Whittlesea Multicultural Issues Network and Chairperson and Founder of the Employment Pathways Network North. She is a Family Relationship Broadmeadows Cultural Consultative Committee member and an executive member of Victorian Local Government Multicultural Issues Network.

Shazia Syed is a passionate educator, advocate and writer. She works as Coordinator of Financial Capability and Urdu Language Educator. Shazia holds a Master’s degree in Language and a Diploma in Financial Counselling. She is a published author, with 8 Urdu language books that are used in the Australian language curriculum. Shazia is also a desktop designer, language instructor and mentor to writers from Persian and Chin Hakka communities, guiding them through the process of writing and designing their books.

Shazia has made a profound impact on migrant and refugee women especially victim survivors of family violence and financial abuse. Her leadership in the Let’s Talk Money program, has equipped women with the skills and knowledge to manage their finances effectively, promoting financial independence and resilience. Shazia’s impactful financial capability work has already created long-term benefits for newly arrived multicultural communities, intergenerationally and across borders.

Costa Vasili, inspired by his Cypriot heritage and upbringing in Greater Dandenong, Australia’s most diverse council area, founded Ethnolink at 20. Now Australia’s largest multicultural communications agency, Ethnolink connects diverse communities with government services. Through the Ethnolink Summit, Australia’s largest event on multicultural communication, and Ethnolink Education, Costa advances his mission to connect Australia through language. Ethnolink Education offers over 30 hours of free online training, helping professionals from all sectors develop the skills needed to effectively communicate with diverse audiences.

Costa also serves on the board of the Australasian Association of Language Companies and is president of Entrepreneurs’ Organisation Melbourne, where he helped launch a mentorship program which supports multicultural youth. He also volunteers on industry advisory boards for Monash University and RMIT University and has partnered with these education providers and the University of Melbourne to offer internships, with many participants securing employment.

Cecilia Lynn Nolasco Vence has profoundly impacted the migrant community through her dedication to language training, business support, and community engagement. As a role model, she champions integration and empowerment, setting high standards with her leadership and advocacy. Her commitment to education and sustainability fosters an inclusive, vibrant community, inspiring future generations. Cecilia has also facilitated entry into entrepreneurship through the Micro Business Program, inspiring and encouraging them to engage in volunteer activities such as Meals on Wheels, food preparation for community events, and participation in various community programs, including the Diversity Program.

Cecile Vence has had the opportunity to support people from diverse backgrounds, including community members from the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Vietnam, China, Ukraine, Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand, Russia, and other nations in the Wimmera region. Cecilia has served as the Vice President of the Wimmera Filipino Australian Club for more than two years, where she has organised events to promote cultural awareness. She has volunteered as a member of the Victoria Regional Multicultural Council in Horsham and continued her role on the Regional Advisory Council following her relocation to the Barwon area.

Deeptha Wickramaratna exemplifies the positive impact a visionary leader can have on Victoria’s multicultural community. Due to his work, Sri Lankans in Bendigo reclaimed their cultural identity and created opportunities for the children to learn their native language opening the first VSL Sinhala school outside the metropolitan region. Deeptha established the first-ever Sri Lankan community club, known as the Sri Lankan Fellowship in Bendigo, and initiated the celebration of Sri Lankan cultural festivals. He also joined the Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services Board, building close connections with other multicultural communities in Bendigo.

After serving more than ten years as the founding president of the Sri Lankan Society, he initiated the establishment of a spiritual and cultural hub, building a local temple in Bendigo. His leadership was integral in securing a Bodhi Tree sapling from the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, to Australia. The project was embraced by the entire Australian Buddhist community as a symbol of their cultural and religious identity. The sapling was planted at a grand ceremony attended by dignitaries from around the world.

Born in Longxi County, China, Jijun (Jack) Yang immigrated to Ballarat and has established himself as a vital community member volunteering his time offering free tai chi classes in the beautiful surrounds of Lake Wendouree. His outgoing personality, communication skills and sense of energetic improvement has attracted a diverse group of followers to attend his classes from primary school children to senior residents.

Jack also teaches at the English Corner Group encouraging cultural exchange through song and performance whilst migrants learn English. He demonstrates and teaches tai chi for the Ageing Well program of Ballarat City Council and at local events and community clubs in the area. He supports Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council's multicultural events as well as local associations promoting Chinese culture and practice at aged care facilities, schools and sports groups.

Annisa Li Zhang is a dedicated advocate for multiculturalism in Victoria, making significant contributions through her leadership roles, community work, and writings. She authored and published a groundbreaking 350-page book, In the Town Hall, which chronicles her experiences as a local candidate during the tumultuous period of the COVID-19 pandemic and her resilience in the face of racial online attacks. Establishing the Asian Leadership Program, Asian-Australians are empowered with the essential knowledge, skills, networks, and confidence to assume leadership positions in politics.

Annisa has been a tireless advocate for multicultural communities, championing various initiatives, particularly in the arts and festivals. A standout achievement is her successful proposal and implementation of Glen Eira’s first official Lunar New Year celebration in 2022. She also played a key role in establishing Glen Eira’s first Multicultural Advisory Committee, serving as its co-chair. She has demonstrated her commitment to community engagement and social cohesion by organising teams to participate in the AFL Unity Cup program.