2024 Multicultural Queensland Award winners announced

Brisbane, August 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre recently hosted the 2024 Multicultural Queensland Awards, where seven remarkable individuals and organizations were honoured for their outstanding contributions to fostering inclusivity and diversity throughout the state. The event also served as the platform for the launch of the Multicultural Action Plan 2024–25 to 2026–27. Minister for Multicultural Affairs Charis Mullen led the ceremony, celebrating the dedication of community leaders, businesses, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to break down barriers and promote a more inclusive Queensland. The awards recognized excellence across various fields, including healthcare, community service, and employment.

Among the distinguished honorees,. Sara Shams received the Minister’s Multicultural Award for her passionate advocacy on behalf of culturally and linguistically diverse people with disabilities. Shams, born in Bangladesh and having overcome significant personal challenges, including the amputation of both legs at the age of six, has become a leading voice for disability rights and inclusion in Queensland.

Other notable winners included Lei Hua, who was awarded the Outstanding Contribution by a New Queenslander for her work with the Australian National Chinese Women’s Federation, supporting women and families in crisis. Aitkenvale State School and Rachael Carter were recognized as Diversity and Inclusion Champions for their respective contributions to promoting inclusion and participation in Townsville and Toowoomba.

The Women’s Ethnic Network of the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland, established in 1978, was celebrated as the Multicultural Sector Outstanding Achiever (Organization) for its significant role in integrating the concerns of culturally diverse women into government policies.

Dr. Zakaria Amin was honoured with the Multicultural Sector Outstanding Achiever (Individual) award for his work in providing employment opportunities to culturally diverse communities. Additionally, Donata Sackey received the Lifetime Achiever Award for her lifelong dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers.

In addition to the awards, Minister Mullen unveiled the Multicultural Action Plan 2024–25 to 2026–27, a critical component of the broader policy Our Story, Our Future. This plan is designed to enhance policies, programs, and service delivery, ensuring that Queenslanders from diverse cultural backgrounds are supported in all aspects of life. Highly commended awards were also presented to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Habib Jamall, the Mackay Neighbourhood Hub, and Farzina William.

Minister Mullen praised the recipients, saying, “Multiculturalism is one of Queensland’s greatest strengths, and last night’s ceremony was the perfect way to celebrate it. When we embrace diversity in our communities, we build belonging for all.” She emphasized the importance of community involvement in creating a welcoming and inclusive Queensland.

The Multicultural Queensland Awards form a key part of Multicultural Queensland Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the state’s rich cultural diversity and encouraging actions towards a more inclusive society. The event not only honoured those who have made significant contributions but also highlighted the ongoing efforts to support diversity and inclusion across Queensland.