By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
The inaugural RASRA awards recently held in Dandenong could be given a national platform, Friends of Refugees chief executive Sri Samy said.
The Refugee and Asylum Seekers Recognition Awards night on 20 June packed out the Urban Neighbours of Hope hall and attracted a quality field of nominees from the local suburbs despite being convened in barely a month, Ms Samy said.
“There were so many happy smiles around,” she said.
“People were so happy to be recognised for their contributions.”
Ms Samy said many in the crowd were moved by the stories of the winners, their “sacrifice” and epic journeys.
She believes the RASRAs are the only Australia-based awards for refugees and asylum seekers’ contributions in the community.
“These people give back.
“They are not here for economic reasons but fleeing from persecution and saving their own lives – and they are not here to live off the government.”
Next year, organisers will seek a Melbourne CBD venue and invite nominations from across Australia, paying to fly in any interstate finalists.
Winners at this month’s awards include seven-day-a-week Friends of Refugees volunteer Donstan Pillai, Victoria’s first Afghan refugee state election candidate John Gulzari and Free Burma cafe founder Mas Mai.
The other winners were Aran Mylvaganam (outstanding leader), Helen Sheikhan (community service), Shahin Shafaei (art award), Emmanuel Ndayisaba (academic excellence), Khan Hazara (business), Toma Erjon (all-abilities sport), Habib Manavi (youth achievement), and Yaser Zomorodi and Hussain Ahmadi for sports achievements.
Real Australians Say Welcome artist Peter Drew and Sister Brigid of the Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project were guest speakers.
