2025 inductees
Cristina Ponce Abela
| Cristina Ponce Abela, co-founder of Latin Stories Australia, has spent over a decade empowering Latin America communities in Victoria through storytelling, education and community leadership. Guided by a commitment to visibility, wellbeing and inclusion, Cristina’s work ensures Latin voices are visible and recognised as part of Australia’s multicultural identity and creates spaces where all identities are welcomed. |
Dr Raju Adhikari
| Dr Raju Adhikari is a renowned polymer scientist and pioneering community leader, whose work has enhanced wellbeing, digital health literacy and culturally informed education across Nepali, South Asian and other multicultural communities. His leadership, advocacy and mentorship continue to shape stronger pathways for inclusion, representation and multicultural collaboration in Victoria and beyond. This has set a great example across academic and diverse community sectors. |
Dr Ponniah Anandajayasekeram
| Dr Ponniah Anandajayasekeram is a retired Agricultural Economist, Commonwealth Scholar, and respected multicultural community leader from Sri Lankan Tamil background. Led by a lifelong commitment to inclusion, equity and empowerment, Dr Anandajayasekeram’s leadership, advocacy and service not only uplifted the Tamil community but also created a meaningful impact for multicultural communities across Victoria.This directly improved social cohesion, service access, wellbeing and inclusion. |
Achol Arow
| Achol Arow is the founder of Miss Junubia Australia, known as an exceptional movement empowering young South Sudanese women through leadership, cultural pride and community engagement. Through this vision, Achol has reshaped what representation and leadership look like for South Sudanese youth. Her dedication to nurture culturally grounded leaders reflects an unwavering commitment to inclusion, empowerment and the future of multicultural Victoria. |
Suzy Bourdamis
| Suzy Bourdamis is a distinguished advocate for the Greek community and a respected cultural leader, with 30 years service of championing multiculturalism, gender equality and community resilience in Geelong and regional Victoria. Suzy’s commitment to equity is reflected in her extensive work supporting women from multicultural backgrounds, including survivors of sexual assault and family violence. Suzy’s work sets an example for community-led leadership, grounded in empathy and voluntary service. |
Bhakta Dasa
| Bhakta Dasa is a respected interfaith leader, humanitarian and cultural advocate whose four decades of service have strengthened social cohesion across Victoria. Through Bhakta’s dedication, he has provided culturally safe chaplaincy for Hindu communities and built platforms that amplify shared values and empower emerging leaders. His legacy is one of compassion, bridge-building and cultural celebration, shaping a more inclusive, harmonious Victoria for generations to come. |
Dr Teresa De Fazio OAM
| Dr Teresa De Fazio OAM is a nationally respected leader advancing multiculturalism, social cohesion and intercultural inclusion across Victoria. A pioneer in community languages education, anti-racism initiatives and youth leadership, her decades of work have empowered diverse communities and inspired future generations to embrace equity and cultural pride. Through her strategic vision and mentorship, Dr De Fazio has created a lasting legacy of inclusion, cultural confidence and intergenerational empowerment. |
Nyaruon Deng
| Nyaruon Deng is a youth mental health advocate, who launched the ‘Check-In-With-Rose’ initiative, a platform for mental health awareness amongst the South Sudanese diaspora. Nyaruon demonstrated her commitment to addressing stigma around mental health, substance use and trauma in African communities by providing workshops, peer support and mentorship in English and Nuer, ensuring culturally inclusive access to care. Nyaruon’s advocacy, mentorship and platform continue to amplify marginalised voices, inspire future generations, and contribute to a more inclusive and culturally responsive Victoria. |
Vedran Drakulić OAM
| Vedran Drakulić OAM is a visionary leader, humanitarian and advocate, who has dedicated 20 years to advancing multiculturalism, social cohesion and refugee support across Victoria. Vedran’s contribution to the multicultural community includes creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and amplifying the voices of migrants, refugees and young people. His commitment to leading by example inspires future generations to embrace diversity, inclusion and civic responsibility. |
Sukhvinder (Sunny) Singh Duggal
| Sukhvinder (Sunny) Singh Duggal exemplifies the positive impact a dedicated community leader can have on Victoria’s multicultural community. With over 25 years of service to Victoria’s multicultural landscape, Sunny has empowered migrant and refugee communities through culturally tailored programs, emergency relief, youth mentorship and interfaith engagement. Sunny’s work continues to inspire young leaders, foster resilience and bridge cultures, ensuring the values of equity, unity and community live on. |
Cora Fuentes-Mahnic
| Cora Fuentes-Mahnic is a passionate advocate and leader dedicated to advancing multiculturalism and community wellbeing across Victoria. In her role as an ethnic broadcaster on Phoenix FM, Vice President for Strategic Planning of the Ormocanon Expats Council, and active Rotarian, she informs, empowers and connects diverse communities through education, mentorship and cultural engagement. Her dedication has strengthened networks, promoted inclusivity and created lasting opportunities for multicultural participation. |
Dr Adolfo Gentile
| Dr Adolfo Gentile is a pioneering leader in the field of translation and interpreting, widely recognised as one of the founders of the language services industry in Australia. Dr Gentile’s work has directly supported all multicultural communities in Victoria by providing professional interpreting and translation services in healthcare, law, government and community sectors. This ensures individuals with limited English proficiency can engage safely and confidently. |
Berhan Ismael Jaber
| Berhan Ismael Jaber has been a trusted advocate, community connector and voice for newly arrived migrants and long-standing diaspora communities in Victoria for over 25 years. Through his work as a producer and co-host of Eritrean Voices, a trusted multilingual platform, and his leadership through grassroots initiatives in sport, youth engagement and humanitarian aid, Berhan fosters inclusion, amplifies voices, and inspires cross-cultural understanding locally and globally. |
Rana Shahid Javed
| Rana Shahid Javed is a committed community leader recognised for his profound contributions to the Urdu-speaking communities of Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi, Burmese and Fijian heritage. Through this combination of early migrant-focused broadcasting, ongoing language preservation, cultural festivals, mentoring and civic service, Rana has made a profound and lasting difference to multicultural communities in Victoria. Rana has inspired future generations of Victorians, providing systemic support and a strong foundation for success. |
Helen Kalimniou
| Helen Kalimniou is a visionary cultural leader whose work bridges generations and communities in Victoria. Through original theatrical productions, educational workshops and outreach to elderly migrants, she preserves the heritage of Epirus while fostering intercultural dialogue. Helen’s inclusive approach connects Greek, Assyrian, Italian and broader communities, promoting understanding, empathy and respect. Her dedication strengthens Victoria’s social fabric, celebrates diversity, and inspires future generations to embrace cultural heritage while building inclusive, cohesive and resilient communities. |
Angelos Terrence Kenos
| Angelos Terrence Kenos is a lifelong champion of multiculturalism and community service across education, sport, charity, health, justice and local government. Angelos has created lasting impact with his dedication to preserve Hellenic and Australian history, foster inclusion and inspire civic engagement. Through decades of leadership, mentorship, and volunteerism, Angelos’s work strengthens community cohesion and sets a powerful example for future generations of culturally aware, compassionate and engaged Victorians. |
Eleftheria Lalopoulos
| Eleftheria Lalopoulos has been a trailblazer in Melbourne’s Greek community for over four decades. As the first female president of the Kastorian Club, Eleftheria has created a lasting foundation for cultural preservation and community connection that will benefit generations to come. Through innovative programs, youth engagement and cultural collaboration spanning decades, she ensures traditions thrive in modern Australia. |
Feifei Liao
| Feifei Liao is a visionary changemaker, transforming Victoria’s multicultural and LGBTQIA+ landscape. Her works, including ‘Our Point 3’ and ‘Feifei Curiosity’, have created safe, empowering spaces for LGBTQIA+ international students, migrant and refugee women, and gender-diverse communities. Through storytelling, film and leadership programs, Feifei amplifies underrepresented voices, fosters connection and drives systemic change. Feifei’s enduring impact inspires inclusion, equity and resilience, creating a more vibrant, interconnected and socially just Victoria for generations to come. |
Eugenia Mitrakas OAM
| Eugenia Mitrakas is a pioneering leader and advocate from a refugee background, whose work has transformed Victoria’s multicultural and legal landscape. As the first Greek female lawyer in Victoria and the first woman on the Legal Admission Board, she has championed women, migrants, and emerging communities. Through her advocacy, mentorship and leadership in legal, welfare and educational initiatives, Eugenia has expanded access to justice, preserved cultural identity and inspired generations. |
Cecilia Rabecca Mphande
| Cecilia Mphande is a highly respected educator and community leader, with 38 years of experience guiding and uplifting others to foster inclusion, resilience and opportunity across Victoria and beyond. Through her leadership roles at AfriAus iLEAC, LUVPACKS, GirlForce Victoria and CALD Women in Relational Entrepreneurship, Cecilia has pioneered impactful initiatives in family violence prevention, youth leadership, women’s economic empowerment and crisis response. Her work continues to create lasting impact by amplifying multicultural voices and inspiring future generations. |
Selliah Nalliah
| Selliah Nalliah is a devoted community leader and volunteer who has served Victoria’s Tamil and Hindu communities for over 37 years. As a leader in the Hindu Society of Victoria and Tamil Senior Citizens Fellowship, Selliah has championed cultural education, senior welfare and temple leadership. Through initiatives like Sunday schools, cultural programs and support for isolated seniors, he has strengthened intergenerational connections, preserved Tamil language and heritage, and promoted multicultural understanding. |
Tammy Nguyen
| Tammy Nguyen, CEO of the Vietnamese Museum Australia, is a visionary leader preserving the stories of Vietnamese refugees and their contributions to Victoria. Inspired by her own refugee experience, Tammy has created an inclusive, community-driven space that amplifies voices, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and empowers younger generations. Through exhibitions, oral histories and cultural programs, she strengthens identity, belonging and intergenerational connection. |
Kifarkis Nissan
| Kifarkis Nissan is a passionate community advocate who empowers refugee families, youth and multicultural leaders through mentorship, capacity building and cultural preservation. Kifarkis’s contributions to the community, including supporting the establishment of the Australian Socio-Syriac Association, Refugee Engineers Network and a Healthy-Wellbeing Parents Group, provide sustainable platforms for cultural preservation, social support and civic engagement. Kifarkis fosters inclusion, resilience and opportunity, helping communities maintain their heritage while thriving in Australia. |
Rev Deacon George Piech Meat
| Reverand Deacon George Piech Meat is a visionary community leader whose work transforms lives and strengthens multicultural communities across Victoria. Through the African Community Visitation Program, he empowers justice-involved young people, nurtures cultural pride, and builds trust between African communities and institutions. By fostering mentorship, inclusion and collaboration, he breaks cycles of disengagement, mobilises community organisations and creates pathways for youth leadership. |
Pavan Kumar Rangaraju
| Pavan Kumar Rangaraju exemplifies selfless service and multicultural leadership, dedicating over 25 hours weekly to supporting Victoria’s diverse communities. Pavan’s hands-on approach, humility and commitment foster belonging, resilience and intercultural understanding. By empowering children, supporting refugees and international students, and building bridges across faiths and cultures, Pavan strengthens social cohesion and inspires future generations to embrace diversity, compassion and community service. |
Silvana Raydan
| Silvana Raydan has transformed the Druze community in Victoria through exceptional leadership, vision and dedication. Silvana’s work empowers women, youth and newly arrived families, fostering inclusion, resilience and cultural pride, while strengthening multicultural dialogue across Victoria. Her tireless commitment ensures the Druze community remains connected, visible and vibrant. This leaves a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations to embrace heritage, support one another, and contribute meaningfully to Victoria’s multicultural landscape. |
Roxanne Sarthou
| Roxanne Sarthou is a visionary community leader who has transformed Victoria’s multicultural landscape. As CEO of the Filipino Community Council of Victoria, Roxanne expanded food relief programs, mentored international students, advocated for culturally appropriate aged care and influenced policy. Her initiatives continue to empower migrants, celebrate diversity and build inclusive communities, leaving a lasting legacy of belonging, resilience and leadership for future generations. |
Nilaufer Singh
| Nilaufer Singh, founder of the Ballarat Indian Australian Association, is a resilient leader for migrant, refugee and South Asian women in Victoria. For over 20 years, Nilaufer has provided safety, guidance and support through Project Sitara, in-language health education, crisis intervention and practical assistance. By creating culturally safe spaces, mentoring women and fostering empowerment, she has reduced isolation, challenged harmful norms and strengthened families. |
Salvatore Sposato
| Salvatore Sposato exemplifies how passionate leadership and cultural pride can positively contribute to Victoria’s multicultural community. As President of the Calabria Club in Melbourne, Salvatore transformed the club into a beacon of Calabrian identity and Italian heritage, welcoming all communities through food, music, language and cultural programs. Salvatore’s work is not only a revival of the past but a blueprint for the future. His legacy is proof that multiculturalism is strongest when rooted in lived experience, shared joy and a deep respect for others. |
Junxi Su
| Junxi Su, recognised as a respected community leader in the Chinese community, has spent over 20 years empowering Asian migrants across Victoria. By founding community friendship groups, promoting performing arts, mentoring youth and providing vital support on health, family and social challenges, Junxi has combated isolation, fostered inclusion and strengthened multicultural harmony. Her vision and advocacy leave a lasting legacy of resilience, belonging and cross-cultural understanding for Victoria’s multicultural society. |
Anna Thimyoe Takluem
| Anna Takluem’s journey from refugee to community leader embodies resilience, compassion and empowerment. As a Multicultural Education Aide, Anna bridges cultural and language gaps, supports refugee families and transforms schools into inclusive spaces. Through community leadership, advocacy and cultural events, she strengthens the Chin and wider Myanmar diaspora, promotes belonging, and inspires future generations. Anna’s leadership ensures Victoria’s multicultural communities thrive, creating a legacy of inclusion, dignity and cross-cultural understanding for generations to come. |
Ali Agha Wali Zada
| Ali Agha Wali Zada is a dynamic multicultural youth leader from Corio, transforming his community through education, advocacy and cultural pride. As School Captain, Mental Health Ambassador and Hazara rights advocate, Ali empowers youth from over 40 cultural backgrounds, bridges communities locally and internationally, and fosters inclusion, leadership and global awareness. His initiatives have equipped young people with confidence, purpose and a sense of belonging. |
Dr Bruce Wong
| Dr Bruce Wong is a compassionate philanthropist and community leader, whose dedication uplifts multicultural communities locally and internationally. From supporting refugees and migrants in Victoria during the COVID-19 pandemic, to empowering women, children and disadvantaged groups in Sri Lanka, South India and Cambodia, Dr Bruce combines practical assistance with long-term capacity building. Dr Bruce’s initiatives have fostered education, arts, leadership and wellbeing, enabling communities to thrive with dignity and confidence. |
Ali Yaghobi
| Ali Yaghobi is the co-founder and president of the Australia Afghanistan Initiative, whose work addressed Islamophobia and radicalisation through community-led education. Ali’s dedication to Victoria’s multiculturalism is reflected in his support to a wide range of multicultural and multifaith communities across Melbourne, including Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Hindu and Sikh communities, as well as Afghan, Hazara, Iranian, Pakistani and broader migrant and refugee populations. |
Mohammed Yassin
| Mohammed Yassin, a former refugee, embodies resilience and leadership in multicultural Victoria. Through entrepreneurship programs, educational initiatives and advisory roles, Mohammed empowers refugees, migrants and young people to succeed and lead. His work bridges local, regional and global communities, advocating for inclusion, equity and opportunity. His achievements create generational impact, fostering economic participation, leadership and systemic change, while inspiring future multicultural leaders to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society. |
Xiaobei Ye
| Xiaobei Ye, founder and president of the volunteer-led Warrnambool Multicultural Association (WMA), is a resilient advocate for diversity and inclusion. Under Xiaobei’s leadership, WMA has become the driving force for cultural connection and cross-cultural promotion, transforming Southwest Victoria’s multicultural landscape. Xiaobei’s leadership, advocacy and collaborative approach have made a lasting and exceptional contribution to multiculturalism in Victoria, ensuring that regional communities are as vibrant, inclusive, and connected as the state’s largest cities. |
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