Migrant work translates into award

By Shaun Inguanzo
DANDENONG’s Migrant Resource Centre (MRC) has set a state-wide precedent after being the first Victorian centre to receive a prestigious multicultural award.
Earlier this month the South Eastern MRC collected the Victorian Government Award for Excellence in Multicultural Affairs, Service Delivery, in a ceremony at Melbourne’s Government House.
The MRC’s chairman, Dr Michael Protopopov, said the entire centre was thrilled with the award that recognised its leading efforts in integrating migrants into south-eastern communities.
Mr Protopopov said the Dandenong-based MRC serviced the areas of Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia, providing integration programs for all migrants, with a focus on providing services to emerging ethnic communities.
Mr Protopopov said South Eastern MRC was the first centre of its kind in Victoria to receive the award, and added it was the centre’s response to various challenges arising in Dandenong’s diverse multicultural landscape that set it apart from the rest.
He said the Sudanese community was a prime example of the MRC’s work, having been in the spotlight for a number of issues including driving skills.
“We are developing programs to assist them, together with Victoria Police, and it in fact invites other organisations to come and assist in, for example, teaching people how to drive responsibly.”
Mr Protopopov said the MRC was a crucial part of a migrant’s smooth transition into society.
“We are here to help people circulate and make this their home.”