Award winners
Category 1: ACT Multicultural Individual Champion Award
Winner: Mijica Rose Lus
Mijica Rose Lus supports multicultural communities in the ACT with a range of initiatives, such as the Aurosokwo project, which encompassed a range of activities from creating care packs, book drives, and medical outreach, to collaborating with local charities and organisations. Her active engagement with youth advisory boards, local schools, and international organisations exemplifies her commitment to nurturing a more inclusive society.
Highly commended: Tendayi Ganga
As the Founder of the Born To Shine Not for Profit Organisation, Tendayi has demonstrated a deep dedication to empowering women and creating spaces for meaningful connection and growth. Her involvement in the CALD Community Action Group by White Ribbon Australia showcases her proactive approach in addressing family violence and advocating for policy changes.
Highly commended: Dr Lubna Alam
Dr Lubna Alam’s impactful work as a diversity and inclusion advocate at her workplace and as the Co-Founder and President of the ALO Enlightened Women Inc. showcases her dedication to fostering a welcoming and harmonious environment.
Category 2: ACT Community Organisation (Multicultural Champion) Award
Winner: ALO Enlightened Women Inc.
ALO has made a significant impact on the lives of hundreds of multicultural community members, especially migrant and refugee women who are marginalised and vulnerable, through their comprehensive range of programs and services.
Highly commended: Refugee and Migrant Swim Program
The Refugee and Migrant Swim Program supports new Australians and Canberrans by providing practical swimming lessons to improve water safety. Lessons are trauma-informed and culturally safe, ensuring the comfort of participants from a diverse range of backgrounds.
Category 3: ACT Outstanding Excellence Award for Diversity and Inclusion
Winner: Dr Lubna Alam
Dr Alam is a co-founder of ALO Enlightened Women Inc., supporting and empowering vulnerable migrant women through the organisation. She is extensively involved in the wider multicultural community, providing support and leadership to foster an inclusive society.
Highly commended: Andrew Sein
Andrew Sein is a leader in the Karen community in the ACT. He has served in various community organisations, and initiated programs such as the Karen Master Chef competition to foster connection and joy within the community.
Highly commended: Ravi Krishnamurthy
Ravi Krishnamurthy’s leadership in roles as President of the Tamil Sangam of Canberra and President of the Australian Multicultural Action Network, among others, has played a pivotal role in fostering cultural understanding and community engagement.
Category 4: ACT Multicultural Art, Media or Culture Award
Winner: Radio Manpasand
Since its inception in 2004, Radio Manpasand’s dedication to serving the Indian and subcontinental diaspora is evident through its long-standing and impactful presence on the airwaves and beyond. Radio Manpasand has functioned as an invaluable platform, broadcasting a diverse range of content, including talkback, interviews and Indian music that resonates with its listeners.
Highly commended: Canberra Telugu Vaani and Samithi Inc.
Canberra Telugu Vaani and Samithi Inc. is a weekly radio program that has been on Canberra airwaves for 3 decades, supporting the Tegulu-speaking diaspora and wider community, making significant contributions to enhancing cultural understanding and appreciation.
Special Lifetime Achievement Award
Recipient: Domenic Mico OAM
Domenic Mico is deeply connected with the multicultural and arts communities in the ACT and has been for the last 50 years. As the former Artistic Director of the National Multicultural Festival, he was instrumental in the event’s development. He is also the former Director of the Tuggeranong Arts Centre, and was involved in numerous other cultural and artistic events and programs in the Canberra community.
