The Queensland Government has announced the members of the third Multicultural Queensland Advisory Council (the Council) following a record number of nominations.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Leanne Linard said eleven outstanding individuals have been selected to serve as members, including two new emerging young leaders and the reappointment of three members.
“I’m thrilled to see so many cultural backgrounds, faiths and languages represented as these impressive individuals work together to create a more inclusive and harmonious Queensland,” Ms Linard said.
“Members of the Council will meet in Brisbane and across the state, to advise the government on opportunities and barriers facing people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Together they form an integral voice for multicultural communities.”
The third Council is a diverse mix of experienced and upcoming leaders, individuals with lived experience as a refugee, members from remote and regional Queensland, and those with expertise from various sectors, including legal, health, education and youth services.
“Queensland has a place for everyone, but sometimes it can be hard to find a way to feel part of a community,” she said.
“Understanding and appreciating the diversity in Queensland’s community as well as some of the barriers to participation will help us continue to build a Queensland where everyone can contribute and belong.
“I’m particularly excited to have emerging young leader Fardowsa Mohamed Yussuf join the Council. She will bring valuable understanding of the experiences of young Queenslanders from migrant backgrounds.”
Ms Yussuf said she was excited to be joining the Council and share her experience of mentoring young people in the youth justice system.
“It is great that I can represent young people from all walks of life. It is an honour I do not take lightly. I hope to advocate for and support young people especially those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds,” Ms Yussuf said.
Dr Alvaro Ignacio Correa-Velez said as a returning member, he was looking forward to continuing the momentum built by the previous Council.
“It is an opportunity to hear new perspectives as we continue to tackle some extremely important issues for migrants, refugees and people seeking asylum across Queensland. The work of the Council benefits all Queenslanders,” Dr Correa-Velez said.
Members of the third Multicultural Queensland Advisory Council include:
- • Mr Beny Bol OAM
- • Dr Alvaro Ignacio Correa-Velez
- • Mr Ameya Bhagwant Deshmukh
- • Mrs Kenny Duke
- • Dr Faiza El-Higzi OAM
- • Ms Anna Jones
- • Mr Timothy Lo Surdo
- • Miss Madina Mohmood
- • Mr Giridharan Sivaraman
- • Mr Andrew Taukolo
- • Miss Fardowsa Mohamed Yussuf
Minister Linard thanked the outgoing members for their work and dedication to the Council and said she deeply appreciated their contributions and hopes to work with them again in the future.
