Forum Program - Involving Volunteers from Multicultural Backgrounds
Event Summary
On November 7, 2024, the Australian Multicultural Community Center Limited (AMCCL) had the privilege of participating in the Involving Volunteers from Multicultural Backgrounds Forum, hosted by Hume City Council. This forum served as a gathering for community organizations, volunteers, and thought leaders dedicated to enhancing volunteer engagement within multicultural communities.
Our Founder and Director, Kholoud Ahmed, had the honor of joining an esteemed panel alongside experts such as Avtar Singh and Cassandra Barret. The discussions centered around effective strategies for involving volunteers from diverse cultural backgrounds, as well as fostering meaningful connections within our communities.
This event underscored the essential role of volunteerism in promoting inclusivity and understanding among different cultures. It was truly inspiring to connect with fellow advocates who share our commitment to making a positive difference in the community.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hume City Council for their support and for organizing such a significant event. Together, we are paving the way for empowering multicultural communities and fostering collaboration and unity.
Facilitators
Shemsiya Waritu
As an international motivational speaker and author of "Untouched Gold", Shemsiya dedicates herself to the community as a life empowerment mentor and proudly serves as the founder of Shemsi Speaks. Her mission is to inspire others to unlock their full potential and embrace their unique strength, celebrating diversity and promoting unity among diverse communities.
Mehak Sheikh
With a background in systems change, co-design, and advocacy, Mehak is passionate about social entrepreneurship, youth leadership, intercultural dialogue, and creating learning spaces. Often sought out in professional capacities to support cultural conversations, community engagement, and big-picture thinking in local government settings due to her experience as a prolific local volunteer.
About The Presenters
Emma Antonetti
A collaboration between project between Whittlesea Community Connections and The University of Melbourne Social Equity Institute. It explored how volunteering impacts on the perceived settlement outcomes from people with refugee and migrant backgrounds, enabling the lived experience to contribute to improved understanding of settlement journeys.
Deb Olive
Deb has spent many years in the volunteer sector in program development, management, and education. She feels privileged to have had these opportunities. Currently is the Volunteer Engagement Team Leader at MND Victoria, a not-for-profit dedicated to supporting individuals with Motor Neurone Disease in Victoria, Tasmania, and southern New South Wales.
Guest Panelists
Kholoud Ahmed
Kholoud (Katey) is Founder and Director at the Australian Multicultural Community Center, a not-for-profit organisation based in Hume. With over 10 years of experience in engaging multicultural communities and volunteers, passionate about inclusivity and believes that diverse perspectives enrich community initiatives and foster stronger connections among residents.
Cassandra Barret
Cassandra is Volunteer and Community Manager at LINK Community & Transport and provides assisted transport and social support services to the diverse communities of Northern and Western Melbourne. Volunteer program includes Volunteer Drivers and Outing Hosts. A Graduate Diploma in Health Communication and extensive experience in health and aged care, particularly with CALD communities.
Avtar Singh
Avtar came to Australia in 1997, studied IT. Founded the Hume Bombers Auskick Centre, the Hume Bombers Football Club in Kalkallo, and the Hume Cricket Club in Roxburgh Park, contributing to community service through the Dal Baba Bidhi Chand Ji Khalsa Darbar in Mickleham.
