Recognising excellence in multicultural Victoria
The Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence (MAEs) honour outstanding individuals and organisations who have made significant contributions to strengthening multiculturalism in Victoria.
Now in its 25th year, the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) proudly coordinates the MAEs to celebrate those who champion cross-cultural understanding and support Victorians from migrant, refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds to thrive and fully participate in all areas of life.
As the longest-standing multicultural awards in Australia, the 2026 ceremony will also feature the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll, recognising local champions of diversity who have played a vital role in keeping our communities safe, connected, and strong.
Award recipients
Arts Award
Dr Anindita Banerjee
Dr Anindita Banerjee is a multidisciplinary artist, curator and arts leader whose work empowers multicultural communities through inclusive storytelling, public art and participatory exhibitions. By centering diverse voices and fostering collaboration, Dr Banerjee creates lasting impact across Victoria’s civic, cultural and community landscapes.Winner
Asamina Theatre Company
The Asamina Theatre Company is a Melbourne-based arts organisation dedicated to amplifying multicultural voices through theatre. Its productions and acting academy empower artists from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to explore complex cultural narratives and foster empathy, dialogue and social cohesion across communities through bold, inclusive storytelling.Highly Commended
Business and Employment Award
VicReturn
VicReturn, a not-for-profit organisation responsible for coordinating Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme, developed a groundbreaking multicultural engagement strategy. Through partnerships, multilingual campaigns and grassroots outreach, the organisation empowered culturally diverse communities to participate, driving environmental impact, community fundraising and inclusive behaviour change across the state.
Winner
CAVAL Ltd.
CAVAL Ltd. is a leading library services organisation that delivers books in over 50 community languages across Australia and New Zealand. Its multilingual Language Resources team curates and catalogues community language materials from around the world, supporting access, diversity and cultural inclusion. CAVAL Ltd. fosters belonging, celebrates diversity, and strengthens multicultural engagement across Victoria’s library sector.
Highly Commended
Emergency Services Award
Multicultural Emergency Management Partnership
The Multicultural Emergency Management Partnership (MEMP) brings multicultural leaders and emergency agencies together to strengthen safety and resilience. Through trust-building, co-designed resources and culturally inclusive practices, MEMP ensures diverse communities across Victoria are empowered, prepared and supported before, during and after emergencies.
Winner
Ahmad Jahfar
Ahmad Jahfar is a firefighter with Clyde Fire Brigade and a multilingual community leader. With over eight years of service and more than 800 incident responses, he was awarded the National Emergency Medal and named Australian Muslim Volunteer of the Year in 2025 for his multicultural engagement efforts. Ahmad champions cultural inclusion, delivering multilingual fire safety education and building trust with diverse communities across Melbourne’s southeast.
Highly Commended
Local Government Award
Greater Shepparton City Council
Greater Shepparton City Council’s Emergency Management and Resilience Team partners with multicultural organisations to co-design programs that build community resilience. Their inclusive approach ensures all residents, regardless of background, have the knowledge, skills and confidence to prepare for and recover from emergencies.
Winner
Abbas Sheikh
Abbas Sheikh is a Multicultural Youth Engagement Worker at Wyndham City Council, leading inclusive programs that empower newly arrived and refugeebackground youth. Through sport, cultural events and partnerships, Abbas fosters belonging, leadership and civic participation. This creates safe spaces and builds stronger, more connected communities across Wyndham.
Highly Commended
Media Award
The Philippine Times
The Philippine Times connects Filipino-Australians through trusted reporting and cultural storytelling. By amplifying migrant voices, celebrating Filipino heritage and embracing digital platforms, the online newspaper fosters cross-cultural understanding and empowers communities. This ensures Filipino contributions are recognised as part of Victoria’s vibrant multicultural landscape.
Winner - Organisation
Dellaram Vreeland
Dellaram Vreeland is a freelance journalist and Australian-born Iranian living on Wadawurrung Country. Based in Ballarat, Dellaram has spent 15 years telling stories across print and digital media, with a focus on multiculturalism, regional affairs, education and mental health. Underpinning Dellaram’s coverage is her passion to encourage visibility, inclusivity and change for multicultural communities.
Winner - Individual
Mental Health and Wellbeing Award
Centre for Muslim Wellbeing
The Centre for Muslim Wellbeing is a community-led organisation improving mental health, spiritual wellbeing, and social inclusion for Muslim communities in Victoria. Grounded in lived experience and guided by evidence, the organisation delivers cultural and faith-informed care through partnerships, advocacy and programs that promote healing, belonging and resilience.Winner
GenWest
GenWest’s Multilingual Health Education program delivers inclusive, in-language health education to migrant and refugee women in Melbourne’s west. Led by bicultural educators, the organisation fosters mental wellbeing, cultural safety and community resilience, empowering women to navigate sensitive issues, seek care, and build confidence through trusted, culturally responsive support.
Highly Commended
Police Awards
Police Annual Multicultural Award
Leading Senior Constable Leigh Johnson
Joining Victoria Police in 1987, Leading Senior Constable Leigh Johnson is the Multicultural Liaison Officer for the Greater Shepparton area. Of Pacific Islander heritage, Leigh brings a vast understanding of policing and an innate appreciation of multiculturalism and diversity. Working closely with the Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District and the VMC Regional Advisory Council, Leigh’s work epitomises community-based policing at its very best.
Winner
Sergeant Rajesh Sambamurthy
A police officer for eight years, Sergeant Rajesh Sambamurthy has helped Indian community members gain an understanding and better relationship with Victoria Police. Originally from Southern India, Rajesh’s language skills in Tamil and Telegu have been advantageous: he has provided safety and security presentations to international students; and worked with SBS to deliver radio broadcasts in Tamil on various safety and security issues.
Winner
Sergeant Verity Newport
Sergeant Verity Newport serves in the Whitehorse Local Government Area at the Forest Hill Police Station, as the Whitehorse Youth Resource Officer. With her commitment to cultural inclusion, Verity has worked tirelessly in schools, challenging racial bias and social isolation, particularly with newly arrived African and other multicultural students. Many of these schools have reported a very positive impact on student communities as a result of her work.Winner
Police Community Exemplary Award
Dr Jennie Barrera
Dr Jennie Barrera is CEO of the Wyndham Community and Education Centre (WCEC), which, among other initiatives, provides support to immigrant and refugee communities – including Burmese, Karen, Congolese and South Sudanese communities. Dr Barrera has played a pivotal role in the relationship between WCEC and Victoria Police – especially since 2023, when an escalation in serious crime in the City of Wyndham lead to trauma and heartbreak for many in the community. A stronger relationship with Victoria Police has ensured greater community engagement, trust and support.
Winner
Board of Imams Victoria, Sheikh Moustapha Sarakibi
The Board of Imams Victoria and, in particular, Executive Director Sheikh Moustapha Sarakibi, have played a central role in countering religiously-inspired violent extremism, through the Community Integration Support Program. The success of this program, aimed at individuals in both community and correctional facilities who show signs of radicalism, has provided the model for countering violent extremism in other countries such as the USA, United Kingdom, Canada and New Zealand.
Winner
Dr Harpreet Singh Kandra
A senior lecturer in engineering at Federation University, Dr Harpreet Singh Kandra is also a leader at the Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar in Officer, Cardinia. This is an inclusive, accessible and welcoming place of worship that offers free meals and various support programs. Dr Kandra has worked closely with Life Saving Victoria to tackle the high incidents of drowning within multicultural communities – and with the Multicultural Liaison Unit in the Southern Metro Police region to provide educational sessions aimed at a better understanding of the Sikh and wider Indian community.
Winner
Rabbi Shmuel Karnowsky
Rabbi Shmuel Karnowsky, Chief Rabbi at Central Shule Melbourne in Caulfield, has been a dedicated Victoria Police Chaplain for many years. An amiable presence at police station visits, Rabbi Karnowsky works hard to build relationships, attend local policing events, and provide guidance and pastoral support. Through his efforts, Rabbi Karnowsky fosters understanding and intercultural exchange – bridging, especially, the gap between police and Jewish young people.
Winner
Protective Service Officer Multicultural Award
Senior Protective Service Officer Ali Kalim
Senior Protective Services Officer, Ali Kalim, has shared his Islamic faith in efforts to forge greater understanding and respect between his fellow Protective Services Officers and local Islamic communities. Ali has accomplished this by arranging visits to Mosques for Protective Services Officers as well as attendance at various Islamic religious festivals. Ali’s exemplary work has helped provide a positive image and greater understanding of Islam in his workplace.
Winner Police Multicultural Media Award
Senior Constable Ding Cai
Multicultural Liaison Officer for the Police Eastern Division, Senior Constable Ding Cai, demonstrates a longstanding commitment to creating meaningful relationships between Victoria Police and multicultural communities. Given his fluency in Mandarin and Cantonese, Senior Constable Cai focuses especially on media presentations to Chinese communities – and regularly visits primary and secondary schools to bridge the gap between educators and Mandarin-speaking parents.
Winner Sarah Vanin
When a spate of drownings occurred last summer, Victoria Police Senior Media Advisor Sarah Vanin took action to save lives. Developing a comprehensive media strategy in partnership with the Victoria Police’s Priority and Safer Communities Division, Sarah’s initiative included a series of targeted, informative stories to raise water safety awareness – especially among Chinese and Indian communities, which were over-represented in drowning incidents. Sarah’s water safety efforts ran successfully for several weeks across the high-risk January period.
Winner
Premier’s Award for Community Harmony
Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Officer
Established in 2019, Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Darbar (SGND), Officer, is a Sikh community organisation providing a platform for multicultural collaboration, interfaith dialogue, health access, crisis response and community development across Victoria. SGND delivers inclusive, measurable initiatives that foster cultural understanding, strengthen social cohesion and support vulnerable groups, expanding access to health, safety, education and environmental programs.
Winner - Organisation
Ruchi Sharma
Ruchi Sharma is a member of Knox Council Advisory Committee, and former Secretary, Australia India Society of Victoria. Ruchi is an active community leader whose work fosters multicultural harmony through media, arts and civic engagement. She founded the Hello Zindagi Radio Show on Radio Eastern 98.1 FM, creating an inclusive platform that connects people across cultural, generational and faith backgrounds. Ruchi also established HuHaHo (Human Happiness & Hope), a wellbeing initiative that promotes inclusivity and collaboration.
Winner - Individual
Prevention of Family Violence Award
Luba Tanevski
Luba Tanevski has spent over 35 years supporting migrant and refugee women fleeing family violence. A migration agent and advocate, Luba helped shape life-saving legislation and has empowered thousands to rebuild their lives. Her lived experience, cultural insight and tireless leadership have transformed Victoria’s response to family violence in multicultural communities.
Winner
Benevolence Australia Inc.
Benevolence Australia Inc. is a community-led organisation fostering spiritual wellbeing and social cohesion. The organisation’s flagship program, ‘Good Beginnings’, empowers Muslim couples through faith-aligned relationship education, promoting respectful marriages, preventing family violence and strengthening multicultural communities with culturally safe, values-driven tools for emotional literacy and equity.
Highly Commended
Refugee Awards
Refugee Achievement Award
Peter Cinzah
Peter Cinzah is a proactive community leader fostering unity and inclusion across Victoria. His work supports refugees, asylum seekers and diverse communities through youth sports, education, women’s programs and cultural events. Peter builds strong crosscultural connections and promotes diversity through advocacy, training, and research. As a multicultural ambassador with the Migrant Worker Centre, Peter delivers work rights awareness workshops and contributes to bilingual resources in Burmese and English.
Winner
Sarah Birara Nega
Sarah Birara Nega is a community leader and advocate supporting newly arrived migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. Through her work at Drummond Street Services, she has broken down barriers to access, built inclusive programs and empowered marginalised communities with compassion, resilience and a deep commitment to human rights and social justice.
Highly Commended
Refugee Leadership Award
Parsu Budathoki
Parsu Budathoki is a former refugee and community leader whose work spans education, health and cultural inclusion. Parsu founded two Nepali language schools, advocates for inclusive healthcare, and empowers Bhutanese-Nepali communities through service, mediation and leadership. These efforts build lasting pathways for cohesion, wellbeing and multicultural harmony across the state.
Winner
Mabor Majur Chadhuol
Mabor Majur Chadhuol is a clinical epidemiologist, public health expert and educator. As Founding Director of the Centre for Migrant and Refugee Health, Mabor leads trauma-informed programs that empower refugee and multicultural communities. His work in multicultural health, policy and education continues to shape equitable systems and inspire future leaders across Victoria.
Highly Commended
Refugee Young Leader Award
Yuwaluxshayan Kannan
Yuwaluxshayan Kannan is a young leader and advocate from a refugee background. As a member of the Multicultural Youth Advocacy Network Australia, Yuwaluxshayan has championed refugee youth empowerment at policy levels. Through school leadership, mentoring and advocacy, he has created opportunities for participation, contribution and belonging across Victoria’s multicultural communities.
Winner
Harambee Homework Club
The young tutors of Harambee Homework Club consists of 12 secondary and university students from refugee backgrounds in Bendigo. Through mentorship, cultural leadership and educational support, they empower younger peers to thrive academically and socially, building confidence, connection and inclusion across South Sudanese, Karen and Hazara communities.
Highly Commended
Refugee Business Award
Arabic Welfare Incorporated
Arabic Welfare Incorporated is a not-for-profit organisation empowering Arabic-speaking communities across Victoria. Through culturally responsive casework, education, advocacy and group programs, individuals are supported to overcome settlement challenges, build social connections and participate fully in Australian society. The organisation promotes wellbeing, inclusion and long-term independence.
Winner
Mohammad Jamshid Mohammadi
Mohammad Jamshid Mohammadi is a business leader and mentor who empowers refugees and migrants through employment, training and inclusion. Through his company ‘Remarkable Construction’, Mohammad has supported dozens of individuals to gain trade skills, achieve financial independence and launch their own businesses, strengthening multicultural communities across Victoria through opportunity and leadership.
Highly Commended
Sport Award
Bachar Houli Foundation
The Bachar Houli Foundation empowers young Australian Muslims and multicultural communities through sport, leadership and education. The Foundation’s culturally inclusive programs promote participation, representation and social cohesion, creating pathways for personal growth, community connection and mutual respect, while transforming sport into a platform for unity and opportunity across Victoria.Winner
Diana Lin
Diana Lin is a community leader advancing cultural diversity in the AFL through her role on the Box Hill Hawks Board. Diana fosters inclusion by engaging Chinese communities, diversifying sponsorships, and creating culturally inclusive events. This bridges sport and multiculturalism to strengthen participation, representation and community connection in Victoria’s eastern suburbs.
Highly Commended
Victorian Public Sector Diversity and Inclusion Enhancement Award
Northern Health
Northern Health delivers inclusive, culturally responsive care across Melbourne’s outer north. Guided by it’s Cultural Responsiveness Plan, it embeds equity in clinical practice, workforce development and governance. Northern Health co-designs services with multicultural communities to ensure safe, respectful and accessible healthcare that reflects the region’s rich cultural diversity.
Winner
VETASSESS
VETASSESS supports multiculturalism in Victoria by recognising migrant skills and qualifications across hundreds of occupations. As Australia’s leading assessment authority for skilled migration, the global business empowers diverse communities to access employment, contribute to the workforce, and thrive. VETASSESS advances equity, inclusion and social cohesion through fair, merit-based recognition.
Highly Commended
Youth Leadership Award
COOK4CALD
COOK4CALD is a youth-led charity addressing food insecurity in Melbourne’s South-East through culturally inclusive meal programs. Founded by young people, it empowers multicultural youth to lead with purpose, delivering halal, vegan-friendly meals and hosting community events that foster connection, celebrate diversity and strengthen social inclusion.
Winner
Adriel Abinav Appathurai
Adriel Abinav Appathurai is a medical student and youth advocate committed to health equity, multiculturalism and empowerment for young people. Through lived experience and leadership, Adriel influences policy and programs at all levels, creating pathways for young people to thrive and ensure their voices are represented in health, education and community decision-making.
Highly Commended
Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll
Cristina Ponce Abela Eugenia Mitrakas OAM Dr Raju Adhikari Cecilia Rabecca Mphande Dr Ponniah Anandajayasekeram Selliah Nalliah Achol Arow Tammy Nguyen Suzy Bourdamis Kifarkis Nissan Bhakta Dasa Rev Deacon George Piech Meat Dr Teresa De Fazio OAM Pavan Kumar Rangaraju Nyaruon Deng Silvana Raydan Vedran Drakulić OAM Roxanne Sarthou Sukhvinder (Sunny) Singh Duggal Nilaufer Singh Cora Fuentes-Mahnic Salvatore Sposato Dr Adolfo Gentile Junxi Su Berhan Ismael Jaber Anna Thimyoe Takluem Rana Shahid Javed Ali Agha Wali Zada Helen Kalimniou Dr Bruce Wong Angelos Terrence Kenos Ali Yaghobi Eleftheria Lalopoulos Mohammed Yassin Feifei Liao Xiaobei Ye For further information on the 2025 inductees to the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll, view their biographies.
Arts Award
Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, City of Greater Dandenong
Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre (WSG) is Dandenong’s hub for contemporary art. WSG’s latest project, HOME24, is a transformative exhibition that celebrates refugee and asylum seeker artists. By encouraging intercultural dialogue, WSG promotes social cohesion through art, culinary experiences and collaborative events that connect the multicultural community in Dandenong.Winner
Albanian Moslem Society Shepparton
The Albanian Moslem Society Shepparton celebrates and preserves Albanian culture through annual events, language classes and community support. By fostering social cohesion and establishing the first mosque in Victoria, the society enriches Shepparton’s multicultural fabric and empowers future generations.Winner
L2R Dance
L2R Dance is one of a handful of youth arts organisations in Australia that provides authentic opportunities and employment pathways for children and young people traditionally underrepresented or absent from mainstream arts and culture.Highly Commended
Business & Employment Award
Mohammed Alebrahimi
Mohammed supports and promotes culturally appropriate care: its ability to improve the health outcomes of elderly migrants and refugees; its success in providing training and employment opportunities to younger migrants; and its capacity to create better social connections for the entire community.
Winner
Multicultural Consulting Services
Multicultural Consulting Services (MCS) is a certified social enterprise dedicated to empowering diverse communities in Victoria. Through tailored employment services, training, and ongoing support, MCS fosters inclusion and economic participation for migrants, refugees and other priority jobseekers – helping them overcome barriers and achieve long-term success in the workforce.
Winner
MiCare Ltd
MiCare’s mission and vision is founded on the provision of services that meet the diverse needs of people living in multicultural Australia. Services include aged residential and home care, retirement living and migrant and settlement services, supporting migrants and refugees as they transition to a new life in Australia.
Highly Commended
Niti Bhargava
With over 15 years of finance experience and a strong focus on financial literacy and awareness, Niti has helped many migrant families take control of their finances. Last year, she was recognised in the Victorian Parliament by local MP Luba Grigorovitch for her contributions to financial literacy.
Highly Commended
Emergency Services Award
Fire Rescue Victoria - Multicultural Liaison Officers
Fire Rescue Victoria Multicultural Liaison Officers help multicultural communities reduce fire and emergency risks. By bridging the cultural divide, fostering trusted relationships, addressing knowledge gaps and connecting with communities, they empower multicultural Victorians to collaborate for a stronger, more prepared future with reduced risk of the impacts of fire events.
Winner
Local Government Award
City of Melbourne – International Education Team
The City of Melbourne has made significant contributions to multiculturalism by supporting international students from over 160 countries. Through diverse programs like My Melbourne and The Couch, the City has engaged over 50,000 students, offering social activities, food relief, employability workshops and volunteering opportunities. These initiatives have reinforced Melbourne's position as Australia's best student city for 10 consecutive years.
Winner
City of Greater Dandenong Council Festivals and Events
The City of Greater Dandenong Council Springvale Snow Fest event is the biggest winter street food festival in Victoria. The event highlights multicultural communities and provides entertainment, activities and delicious food from around the world – even delivering snow to the centre of Springvale!
Highly Commended
Media Award
Lakshmi Ganapathy
Early-career journalist and theatre-maker Lakshmi Ganapathy voices thought- provoking, overlooked perspectives through her work. Currently the Melbourne Content Creator for Indian Link, an award-winning publication empowering the South Asian diaspora, she was part of ArtsHub’s inaugural Amplify Collective, and has made content for RMITV, La Trobe University and Channel 31.
Winner
Voice of West Papua Radio
Voice of West Papua has been on air for 11 years and is presented by West Papuan community members who voice the aspirations of West Papua’s culture, share songs, interviews, music and stories.
Winner
Steve (Sotiris) Hatzimanolis
For five decades, Sotiris Hatzimanolis has been a tireless advocate for independent Greek Australian media. His journey began in the 1970s with Greek Australian radio and continued with Neos Kosmos, where he played a pivotal role in transforming the publication from a Greek-language newspaper into a bilingual Greek and English platform.
Highly Commended
Mental Health & Wellbeing Award
Dr Senem Eren
Dr Eren is a trusted psychologist with 20 years of expertise in trauma, positive psychology, and the impact of cultural influences on mental health. Dr Eren – one of the first Australian Muslims to hold a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology – co-founded the Centre for Muslim Wellbeing and Green Crescent Australia.Winner
Associate Professor Iraklis Harry Minas
Associate Professor Iraklis Harry Minas is the the Head of the Global and Cultural Mental Health Unit, School of Population and Global Health at The University of Melbourne. His areas of expertise include psychiatry, global mental health, mental health system development, disaster mental health and multicultural mental health – mental health of immigrants and refugees.
Winner
Mental Health and Well-being Foundation
The Mental Health and Well-being Foundation, led by Dr Francis Acquah, aims to transform mental health care through global advocacy, culturally- tailored training, and impactful research. The Foundation’s commitment to education and community engagement fosters a more inclusive approach, enhancing mental health support for diverse populations globally.
Highly Commended
Police Awards
Police Annual Multicultural Award
Detective Senior Constable Andrew Turton
Detective Senior Constable Andrew Turton was instrumental in the investigation and successful prosecution of a case involving a faith leader and multiple victims. Andrew is to be commended for pursuing this case with great determination and professionalism – and for his tenacity and empathy on behalf of the victims and their families.
Winner
Senior Constable Andrew Moreton
The nomination of Senior Constable Andrew Moreton is to be applauded because it highlights the need for Victoria Police to reach out to all young people, including those at risk. Andrew has used his soccer playing and refereeing skills to reach out to youth in the City of Darebin and beyond. Particularly impressive is the successful encouragement of young males and females to undertake Football Victoria’s referee program. Also impressive is Andrew’s work with Somali and Arab youth. Senior Constable Moreton has truly won the respect of the community, service providers and his police colleagues. Andrew has also helped schools deliver cyber safety training programs, an initiative that helps protect young people.
Winner
Senior Sergeant Stylianos (Steve) Spyrou
Senior Sergeant Steve Spyrou has been a member of Victoria Police for almost four decades. Steve has played a central role in the formation and work of the Victorian Hellenic Police Association, through events such as the St. Artemious Day celebrations and the annual Greek National Day march. Steve has encouraged and mentored younger Greek Australians to join Victoria Police – and delivered personal and home safety initiatives for elderly Greek groups.Winner
Senior Sergeant Alasdair Farrell
Senior Sergeant Alasdair Farrell has played a central role in liaising with community leaders, including dealing with a community crisis triggered by overseas events that impacted heavily on Jewish and Palestinian Muslim and Christian communities in Melbourne. Alasdair liaised with community leaders and helped solve digital and technological challenges, giving Victoria Police access to areas of significance, minimising risks and generating a sense of community safety and support. He devised a system for event notification and risk assessment, including for religious festivals. He has risk- assessed over 150 events and attended 500-plus engagements to support event planning.Winner
Sports COPPS - Detective Sergeant Vincent Manno
Detective Sergeant Vincent Manno instituted Sports COPPS in 2001. This outstanding police/youth project has engaged over 14,850 young people across Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria, reducing youth crime, building trust between police officers and multicultural communities, reducing historical tensions and establishing partnerships with community groups, schools and sports clubs. This positive program delivers on its mantra: Life Skills through Sports.
Winner
Senior Constable Rana Khan
Originally from Pakistan, Senior Constable Rana Khan became a PSO in 2013, before becoming a police officer in 2017. Fluent in five languages, he has the capabilities to reach out to Gippsland multicultural communities. He has demonstrated community leadership by creating an Islamic prayer centre in Drouin – and educated local Islamic community members about Victoria Police and the law, not least in the family violence area. Also commendable, he set up a prayer room in the Warragul police station.
2023 Winner
Police Community Exemplary Award
Weda Mohseni
Weda Mohseni is a key member of KOMAK, a Uniting initiative in Dandenong that supports the Afghan and other Muslim communities. KOMAK is the Dari word for ‘help’ and ‘support’. In addition to her case work in the community, Weda has been instrumental in advising police in the south-eastern corridor on youth crime, family violence, forced marriage and public safety. Weda has arranged and helped deliver community information sessions, especially to newly arrived immigrants and refugees, and has been particularly supportive of Victoria Police officers.
Winner
Major Events Human Rights Guide Team
The preparation of the Major Events Human Rights Guide provided Victoria Police with a chance to examine its own approach to human rights – especially in the context of their adoption and implementation at major events (including major sporting events). The preparation team – Alena Hetsch, Anthony Abate, Keely Kontaxis and Darren Kenos, working with John Croker as the Principal Solicitor for Human Rights – are to be commended for this Human Rights initiative.
2023 Winner
Police Multicultural Media Award
A/Sgt Kevin Dong
This nomination highlights the increasing presence within Victoria Police of Chinese officers – and highlights the officers who have facilitated this welcome development. In his five years at the Oakleigh Police Station, A/Sergeant Kevin Dong has established close links with Chinese-speaking communities, especially through his appearances on Chinese media. He has conducted information sessions in Mandarin for Chinese residents, and supported activities during Chinese Lunar New Year.
Kevin has addressed student groups at two universities and provided a mentoring role for new Chinese Australian recruits into Victorian Police. He represents a vibrant bridge between law enforcement officers and various Chinese communities.
Winner
Premier’s Award for Community Harmony
Wyndham Central College Link Centre Community Hub
The Wyndham Central College Community Hub fosters engagement with diverse local and national organisations. Located in a disadvantaged area, it serves over 1300 students, with 48 per cent from migrant or refugee backgrounds. The Hub offers various programs for adults (e.g. English language, digital literacy) and youth (e.g. cultural groups, support services). It aims to build family capacity, improve student outcomes and deepen community partnerships.
The Hub has become integral to the school, providing culturally safe support and promoting cross-cultural connections. It serves as a Tier 2 support system, offering targeted assistance to students and families while strengthening school-wide family and community engagement capabilities.
Winner
Prevention of Family Violence Award
Whittlesea Community Connections
Whittlesea Community Connections has been working with local multicultural communities for over 50 years, providing a range of services and opportunities. Since 2021 the Phase 2: Whittlesea CALD FV project has improved life outcomes for women at risk or experiencing family violence.
Winner
AMES Australia - Prevention of Violence Against Women Leadership Program
AMES Australia’s Prevention of Violence Against Women Leadership Program is aimed at empowering community leaders and equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to tackle the scourge of domestic violence in culturally appropriate ways.
Highly Commended
Ajsela Siskovic
Under the leadership of Ajsela Siskovic, the inTouch Women’s Legal Centre provides vital support to migrant and refugee women experiencing family violence. Ajsela leads a dedicated team that offers culturally-responsive legal and migration services, empowering women to attain safety, stability and independence.
Highly Commended
Refugee Awards
Refugee Achievement Award
Mohammad Haroon Sayed
Mohammad Haroon Sayed is a dedicated community leader and advocate for refugees and asylum seekers, driving projects that improve access to essential services, empower women and promote multicultural harmony. His efforts have created lasting change in Victoria, supporting vulnerable communities and inspiring future generations to build an inclusive society.
Winner
Jacqueline Aungminn
Jacqueline is a passionate advocate for refugees, dedicated to empowering multicultural communities through education, support and community-building initiatives. Her volunteer efforts, work within MiCare and the community sector has transformed lives, fostered inclusion, resilience, and opportunities for marginalised groups to thrive and actively contribute to Australian society.
Highly Commended
Refugee Business Award
Reliable Community Care (RCC)
RCC, founded by recently- arrived former Bhutanese refugees, empowers newly arrived refugees through employment pathways, culturally sensitive services and by fostering social inclusion. RCC’s refugee-led approach creates lasting change, building a more unified and diverse society in which refugees are empowered.
Winner
Bendigo Community Health Services (Emergency Preparedness program for former refugees)
Bendigo Community Health Services (BCHS) is a not-for- profit community organisation funded through various government health programs, community donations and sponsorships. With a strong connection to community, and over 45 years of local health experience, BCHS understands local health issues and responds to consumers through a range of services and partnerships.
Highly Commended
Refugee Leadership Award
Rasha Khalid Abbas
Rasha Abbas, founder of Palestine Australia Relief and Action (PARA) and CEO of inTouch, champions the rights and wellbeing of Palestinians and vulnerable migrant communities. Her leadership drives impactful support services, enhances cultural integration and fosters opportunities, making a profound and positive difference to multicultural Australia.
Winner
Hazara Shamama Association of Victoria Inc.
The Hazara Shamama Association of Victoria Inc. (HSA) is a leading advocate for refugees and asylum seekers, offering vital support through English classes, citizenship preparation, employment workshops and leadership development. HSA empowers individuals to integrate, succeed and contribute to Victoria’s vibrant multicultural community.
Highly Commended
Hsar Thein Ju
Well known, hard-working and kind-hearted, Hsar has worked for Parks Victoria for 10 years and, through his work, made positive contributions to diverse communities.
Highly Commended
Refugee Young Leader Award
Nargis (Diba) Jalal
Diba Jalal, a passionate woman in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths), has made a significant impact through her roles with VASA and RMIT’s ASA. She has revitalised Afghan cultural events and inspired young engineers, including refugees. Her work in empowering youth and building connections has greatly enriched diverse communities.
Winner
Sport Award
Frankleen Muken Jeremiah Newah-Jarfoi
Frankleen is a passionate advocate for social justice and community cohesion. A personable, considerate and respectful young leader, he uses athletics as a platform to promote young multicultural people – and to advocate for equitable funding to ensure those young people might participate in the sport of their choice.Winner
Her Run
Her Run empowers women from diverse backgrounds through inclusive sports and wellness programs that celebrate cultural heritage and promote physical and mental wellbeing. With over 2,400 members, HerRun fosters social cohesion, leadership and community engagement, making a lasting impact on Victoria’s multicultural landscape.
Winner
Teuila Hanalei Reid
Teuila is Executive Director at Helping Hoops and Director at Koorie Academy. She volunteers with numerous sports-based groups throughout Naarm. With a former career in the US Foreign Service, Teuila‘s global community development experience has equipped her with a diverse skill set which significantly adds to the running of Helping Hoops.
Highly Commended
Youth Leadership Award
Ali Agha Wali Zada
Ali is a dedicated youth leader from Geelong, committed to promoting multiculturalism and mental health awareness. Through his work with local and international communities, Ali has made a significant impact, fostering cultural understanding and supporting education. His leadership and advocacy inspire others to build a more inclusive society.
Winner
Avenue Productions Volunteers Team
The Avenue Productions Volunteers Team is a dynamic youth group empowering culturally diverse young people through the planning and delivery of creative events. By promoting inclusion, fostering intercultural dialogue, and amplifying the voices of youth, volunteers are building a more inclusive, vibrant and culturally aware community in Moonee Valley and beyond.
Highly Commended
Multicultural Honour Roll
Dr Francis Roger Acquah AM Tony Le Nguyen Associate Professor Josefine Antoniades Professor Manjula Datta O'Connor Dilnaz Homi Billimoria Professor Nicholas John Papastergiadis Fabiola Campbell Miriam Silva AM Maryum Aziz Chaudhry Manpreet Kaur Singh Wesa Wai-Sum Chau Dalal Sleiman Lyda Dankha Shazia Syed Derya Deniz Demirol Costa Alex Vasili Sivanthi Gurumurothy Cecilia Lynn Nolasco Vence Joseph Haweil Deeptha Wickramaratna Aayushi Khillan Jijun (Jack) Yang Gary Yew Foo Lee Annisa Li Zhang Dr Morley Akinbode Muse For further information on the 2024 inductees to the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll, view their biographies.
Arts Award
Nandita Chakraborty Winner
The Social Studio Highly Commended
Business Award
Comm Unity Plus Services Ltd Winners
All Ears Hearing Highly Commended
Community Innovation Award
Wellsprings for Women Winner
Theresa Sengaga Ssali Highly Commended
Education Awards
Early Childhood Education
City of Casey Best Start Cultural Communication Improvement Team Winner
ViêtSpeak Highly Commended
School Education River Nile School Winner
Debney Meadows Primary School Highly Commended
Pre-accredited community-based Education and Training
River Nile Learning Centre Winner
BSL Cross Cultural Consultancy Highly Commended
Vocational Education and Training Accredited Education & Training
VU Together Against Racism Working Group Winner
Gordon Institute of TAFE Highly Commended
Emergency Services Award
Victorian State Emergency Service Greater Dandenong Unit Winner
Health Award
Program for Refugee Immunisation Monitoring and Education Winner
Silva Nazaretian Highly Commended
Justice Award
Northern Community Legal Centre and South-East Monash Legal Service Winner
Eastern Community Legal Centre & Eastern Health Highly Commended
Local Government Award
City of Greater Bendigo Winner
SALDHIG project Highly Commended
Media Award
iMPACT Magazine Winner
Can We Talk About It?! Podcast Highly Commended
Police Awards
Police Annual Multicultural Award
Detective Senior Constable Tana Griffiths Winner
Inspector Dean Clinton Winner
Leading Senior Constable Heath Williams Winner
Police Community Exemplary Award
Ms. Brooke Harding – Ramadan Care Packages Winner
Police Multicultural Media Award
Diversity Recruitment Program Media Campaign Winner
Protective Service Officer Multicultural Award
PSO Sergeant Pushp Sidhu Winner
PSO Sergeant Simarpal Kaur Winner
Premier’s Award for Community Harmony
Ian Green OAM Finalists
Cultura Pako Festa 2023 Finalists
Rabbi Yaakov Glasman AM Finalists
City of Whittlesea - Community Activation team Finalists
Refugee Advocacy Award
Free to Feed Winner
Bendigo Karen Youth Network Highly Commended
Sport Award
City in the Community Winner
Bendigo Community Health Services Highly Commended
Youth Leadership Award
Rhea Werner Winner
Bendigo Karen Youth Network Highly Commended
Multicultural Honour Roll
Naba Masad Alfayadh Dr Raj Khillan Ayesha Bux Manzoor Ahmad Mian JP Giuseppe Cannata Edward Joseph Micallef Rana Ebrahim Nawal Kishore Moudigal Ruwangi Fernando Mohamed Hadi Omer Farhat Firdous Asvin Phorugngam Rabbi Yaakov Glasman AM Nola Radiotis Kyriakos Gold Hadi Saab George Gregorio Helen Stamoulis Bekim Hasani Kaja Starinskas Eva Hussain Mannie Kaur Verma Siegfredo M Jover Deepak Vinayak OAM Gurinder Kaur Gloria Yuen Arfa Sarfaraz Khan Arts Award
Samuel Gaskin Winner
Sivarubhini Kanagasabai Highly Commended
Ryan Rezai Highly Commended
Business Award
Metro Trains Melbourne Winner
John Holland Group Winner
Professional Migrant Women Highly Commended
Multicultural Business Engagement Team, Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions Highly Commended
Multicultural Home Support Services, Spectrum MRC Highly Commended
Community Innovation Award
Black Diasporas Naarm Project Winner
Asian Australian Volunteers Inc. Highly Commended
Education Awards
Early Childhood Education
Victorian Community Hubs Winner
Monash Vale Early Learning Centre Highly Commended
St Anthony’s Primary School Playgroup Highly Commended
School Education
Harmony Champs – Greater Shepparton Lighthouse and Culture & Co Winner
Abbotsford Primary School Highly Commended
Good Samaritan Catholic Primary School Highly Commended
Matthew Majur Highly Commended
Vocational Education and Training (pre-accredited community-based training)
SisterWorks Inc. Winner
Centre for Participation Highly Commended
Winners – Vocational Education and Training (accredited training)
Chisholm Institute Winner
Kowanj Winner
Victoria University and Polytechnic Highly Commended
RMIT University Highly Commended
Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE (GOTAFE) Highly Commended
Emergency Services Award
Norieul Kinross Winner Health Award
Cohealth’s Bicultural Program Winner
CALD Communities Taskforce Local Partnerships Winner
The Water Well Project Highly Commended
Justice Award
Akuch Kuol Anyieth Winner
Women’s Legal Service Victoria – Migration Pilot Winner
Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission Highly Commended
Marama Kuf Highly Commended
Local Government Award
City of Ballarat Winner
City of Melbourne Highly Commended
Maribyrnong City Council Highly Commended
Media Award
SAARI Collective Winner
STEM Sisters Winner
Catherine Jonathan Highly Commended
Harrison Tippet Highly Commended
Police Award
Police Annual Multicultural Award
Patti Hiras Winner
Senior Sergeant Ron Klajnblat Winner
Sergeant Amanda Fahey Winner
Detective Senior Constable Edmond Shkembi Winner
Police Community Exemplary Award
Victoria Police Multifaith Chaplaincy Winner
KOMAK (Uniting) Winner
Victoria Police and Jewish Community Day Winner
Police Multicultural Media Award
“STOPIT” (The Public Transport Passenger Notification Project) Winner
Protective Service Officer Multicultural Award
PSO Yasac Abdullahi Winner
PSO Aamer Kiani Winner
Premier's Award for Community Harmony
Maria Dimopoulos Winner
Refugee Advocacy Award
Swan Hill Uniting Church Community Issues Group Winner
Major Road Projects Victoria, Level Crossing Removal Project and Swinburne University of Technology Winner
Helping Hand Refugee Youth Mentoring Project Highly Commended
Bounce Program Highly Commended
Sport Award
Karen Block Winner
Chandramarakkalage Anton Roshan Sampath Silva Winner
Hockey Victoria Highly Commended
Youth Leadership Award
Zainab Abou-Eid Winner
Altaf Hussein Winner
Hashwina Vimalarajan Highly Commended
Ali Al Battaat Highly Commended
Multicultural Honour Roll
Azadeh DoostiMaha Htoo Sein
Bianca Brijnath
May Red ZafraBosede Adetifa
Melvin MataChristina Chia Mohajer Hameed Christos Fifis Myint Myint Wai
Donald BettsNasteha Mohamud
Elias DiacolabrianosNurcihan Ozturk Emily Unity Paul Singh Khumra Fartun Farah Rosita Vincent Guosheng Yang Chen Ruel de Leon
Harpreet Singh KandraSam Atukorala Hemant Ganesh Gokhale Savindhi Perera-Jainudeen James Henry Sherlita Teope Hart Jaya Manchikanti
Tammy IliouJune Anderson Arts Award
SalamFest Inc. Winner
Cross Encounters Highly Commended
Kimba Thompson Blak Dot Gallery Highly Commended
Business Award
Liliana Bravo Quiroz - Casa Bonita Lifestyle Winner
Australian Multicultural Community Services Winner
Think HQ Highly Commended
AGAPI Care Inc. Highly Commended
Community Innovation Award
Latin Stories Australia Winner
The Deakin Centre for Refugee Employment, Advocacy, Training and Education (CREATE) Winner
Western Bulldogs Community Foundation Winner
AMES Australia/Parks Victoria Highly Commended
African Focus, St Paul’s African House Highly Commended
Community Response and Recovery Award
Marwo Mohammed SalatWinner
AfriAus iLEAC INC & LUVPACKS partnersWinner
West Welcome Wagon IncWinner
Moustafa Fahour OAM Highly Commended
Tenants VictoriaHighly Commended
Education Award
Early Childhood Education
Bridge Road Kindergarten Winner
Foundation House - Kinder to School Transition Project Highly Commended
School Education
Hampton Park Primary School Winner
Victorian School of Languages - South-East Highly Commended
Pre-accredited community-based Education and Training
Wellsprings for Women - Shipra Plander Winner
Vocational Education and Training Accredited Education & Training
Bendigo Kangan Institute Winner
RMIT & The Social Studio Highly Commended
Emergency Services Award
Foodbank Victoria Winner
Health Award
Cabrini Outreach - Asylum Seeker and Refugee Health Winner
The Harmony Study Team Highly Commended
Justice Award
South-East Monash Legal Service Winner
Sundeep Aulakh Highly Commended
Local Government
Major Road Projects Victoria and Netflow Winner
City of Whittlesea - International Student Wellbeing Hub Project Highly Commended
Media Award
Channel 31 Melbourne Winner
Neelima Choahan Highly Commended
Radio Haanji Highly Commended
Ranjodh Singh Highly Commended
Police Award
Police Annual Multicultural Award Inspector Jason Forster Winner
Sergeant Mark Stephens Winner
Multicultural Media Award Detective Senior Constable Kenny Lin Winner
Police Community Exemplary Award Dandenong Primary School Winner
Protective Service Officer Multicultural Award Senior Protective Services Officer Pasko Zupan Winner
PSO Senior Sergeant Serge Ruoppolo Winner
Premier's Award for Community Harmony
Sikh Volunteers Australia Winner
For further information on the 2021 award recipients, view their biographies.
Arts Award
Aseel Tayah Winner
Te Pasifika Redevelop team and Immigration Museum team, Museums Victoria Highly Commended
Amal Abou-Eid Highly Commended
Business Award
CareerSeekers New Australian Internship Program Winner
Christina Chia Highly Commended
John Holland Group Highly Commended
Community Innovation Award
Dr Michael Akindeju Winner
Tim Lo Surdo Winner
U3A Myrtleford and District Winner
Rotary Club of Canterbury & M.A.T.E.S for Change Highly Commended
Project Respect Highly Commended
Nelson Xavier Kizhakkekunnil Sandhiyave Highly Commended
Community Response and Recovery Award
Sukhvinder 'Sunny' Duggal Winner
Vincenzo De Paolis, Gracie Lolicato and Katrina Lolicato Winner
Islamic Council of Victoria Winner
Residents of the North Melbourne Flemington public housing high rises Winner
Carlton Communities Network Winner
Professor John Catford Highly Commended
Mubarek Imam Highly Commended
InTouch Cultural Centre Against Family Violence Highly Commended
Bendigo Food Relief Network Highly Commended
Education Awards
Early Childhood
Merri Health, Ready Set Prep! Winner
ECMS, Tarneit Central Kindergarten Highly Commended
School Education
Sacred Heart Primary School, Fitzroy Winner
B'nai B'rith Courage to Care Victoria Highly Commended
Hampton Park Secondary College Highly Commended
Vocational Education and Training accredited training
Victoria University Polytechnic – Youth Program, Western Melbourne English Program Winner
Vocational Education and Training pre-accredited community-based training
Banksia Garden Community Services Winner
Emergency Services Award
Veronica Canziani Winner
Life Saving Victoria Highly Commended
Colin Campbell Highly Commended
Health Award
Bendigo Community Health Services Winner
Alison Coelho Highly Commended
Multicultural Centre for Women's Health Highly Commended
Justice Award
Dr Stephane Shepherd Winner
Joanna Abraham Highly Commended
Local Government Award
Greater Shepparton City Council Winner
Brimbank City Council Highly Commended
Media Award
Stephanie Corsetti Winner
National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters Council Winner
Olivier Nzovu Highly Commended
SBS Radio Highly Commended
Multicultural Police Awards
Police Annual Multicultural Award
Sergeant Damian Lehmann Leading Senior Constable Nektarios Parissis Ansam Sadik Leading Senior Constable Diana Quick Acting Sergeant Greg Garrisson Senior Constable Sara Coe Acting Senior Sergeant Rowan Epstein Senior Sergeant Andrew Gardner Leading Senior Constable Ash Dixit Police Multicultural Media Award
Senior Constable Kim Gammon and Senior Constable Travis Ellams Police Community Exemplary Award
Chuol Puot Saara Sabbagh Pamela Kosij Dilnaz Billimoria Helen Jurcevic OAM Preston Mosque Whittlesea Community Connections Victoria Police Cricket Club Protective Services Officer Award
PSO Ratul Biswas Premier’s Award for Community Harmony
Sheikh Alaa Elzokm Winner
Refugee Advocacy Award
Refugee Communities Association of Australia Winner
Level Crossings Removal Authority Winner
Gandel Philanthropy Highly Commended
Sport Award
Centre for Multicultural Youth and Football Victoria Winner
Doveton Football Netball Club Highly Commended
Chris Hatzistavrou Highly Commended
Youth Leadership Award
Sarah Ghassali Winner
Aayushi Khillan Highly Commended
Swathi Shanmukhasundaram Highly Commended
For further information on the 2020 award recipients, view their biographies.
Partners
The Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence 2026 is proudly supported by the following partners.
Gold partner:
Silver partner:
- Department of Transport and Planning
- Foot Solutions
- John Stonemart Pty Ltd
- LanguageLoop
- Think HQ
- Victorian Electoral Commission
Event partner:
The VMC is committed to both meaningful and effective engagement and to resolving grievances in a fair, impartial and timely manner.
Find out more about VMC’s external complaints procedure.(opens in a new window)
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