LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Dear friends, colleagues, and community members,
After more than 30 years working alongside Geelong’s multicultural communities, the time has come for me to step away from formal work and begin a new chapter — retirement.
This was never just a job. It’s been a calling, a privilege, and a source of deep joy and purpose in my life. I’ve had the honour of walking beside people from all over the world, sharing in stories of resilience, courage, and hope that have stayed with me.
There are moments I’ll never forget — standing in the heart of Pako Festa as the colours, music, and cultures of the world filled Pakington Street. Watching a young person from a newly arrived community take their place on a youth council and find their voice. Sitting quietly with elders as they passed down culture and stories over shared meals.
Everything we’ve achieved, we’ve achieved together — through trust, shared effort, and countless cups of tea. I’ve never done this alone. The passion and dedication of staff,
volunteers, community leaders, and partners — and above all, the strength of multicultural communities themselves — have shaped everything we’ve built.
There’s still much to do, but I leave knowing the future is in good hands. I see it in the commitment of our young people, the wisdom of our elders, and every small act of welcome that helps make this region a place where everyone can belong.
As I take this next step, I carry with me the lessons, stories, and friendships that have filled these years. Thank you for the trust, the laughs, the honest conversations, and the shared belief in a better, more inclusive Australia.
I might be retiring — but I’m not disappearing. My heart will always be here.
With joy — always, Joy
COMMUNITIES
Cultura is proud to have played an active role in contributing to the Victorian Multicultural Review. Our consultation sessions with newly arrived and refugee communities provided powerful and heartfelt insights, helping to shape a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by these communities. The recent Public Forum was a moving and meaningful culmination of all these efforts, bringing together voices from across Geelong.
With around 90 community members and guests in attendance, the atmosphere was electric and full of hope. Community leaders spoke with passion and strength, sharing their experiences and advocating for change. A particular highlight was the strong, confident voices of our Youth Council members,
who courageously addressed issues of racism and discrimination. They not only spoke about the challenges but also offered bold and practical solutions to help overcome them, inspiring everyone present.
Geelong’s multicultural communities came together as a united force - 47 communities standing as one voice, calling for real, systemic change.
Commissioner George Lekakis praised the depth of input from our communities and commended the strength and commitment shown throughout the Review process.
We would like to thank everyone who contributed and made this event so meaningful!
VOLUNTEERS
Mariam and Adam are twins and came to Australia at the end of 2024 with their mother. They are Palestinian, spending a lot of their life in Iraq and then Syria. After 8 years of trying, they were eventually granted Humanitarian visas to Australia.
Adam and Mariam had a passion for learning English from a young age, which was supported by their mother and older siblings. Adam remembers a time when US soldiers were passing by their house in their fleet of tanks. Adam spoke with the soldiers and admired what they looked like in uniform, how they spoke and carried themselves. He wanted to speak English confidentially like them. When their mother noticed their passion to learn English, she provided them with books, movies and video games. The family started speaking English in the home.
Adam is about to start studying a Cert IV in Community Services and he is actively volunteering at Cultura. He is assisting in English classes and volunteering with our Immigration Team. He wants to help people navigate their journey to Australia.
Mariam is volunteering at Cultura’s Healthy Living Centre and is a very popular member of the team. She is looking forwarding to studying Cert III in Individual Support and looks forward to a career in Aged Care.
Mariam and Adam have settled well into Australia and are very grateful to Cultura’s Immigration Team who supported them along the way.
Adam and Mariam were asked what they love about Australia and they said “EVERYTHING”. They said “Australia has given us a second chance at life. Australia has hugged us, told us we are welcome and that we are safe”.
SETTLEMENT
Building Bridges: How the Kachin Community Came Into Focus Through the Community Support Program
One of the most rewarding aspects of working in Cultura’s migration program is the opportunity to engage with emerging communities and supporting their journey of settlement and growth. Among these is the Kachin community from Burma, a group previously unknown to our team before the launch of the Community Support Program.
Our first connection with the Kachin people came through Community Support Program referrals from those living in exile in Malaysia. A small number of families eventually settled in Melbourne’s western suburb of Werribee. Wanting to better understand their background and the challenges they face, members of our Migration Program team travelled to Malaysia in May 2024.
During this visit, we had the privilege of meeting Sam, a member of the Kachin community whose warmth and hospitality left a lasting impression. Sam generously introduced us to her community, guiding us through their neighborhoods, schools, and community centres. She provided firsthand insight into the persecution the Kachin face in Burma and the precarious conditions many endure in Malaysia—even those registered with UNHCR.
Sam’s humour and openness made our time in Malaysia both meaningful and memorable. Her strong support for the Community Support Program and tireless advocacy have since led to several new referrals from the Kachin community.
We’re now delighted to share that Sam and her husband recently arrived in Australia through the Community Support Program. Greeted at the airport by Mayumi and Sulaf from the Migration Program, their arrival marks a new chapter in our relationship with the Kachin community. We look forward to working closely with them and continuing to strengthen our support for this growing community in Australia.
Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages)
Staying socially connected is just as important as receiving care at home. Our Social Support Groups offer a welcoming space for older adults to enjoy meaningful activities, build friendships, and stay active in a supportive community. Based at our Healthy Living Centre in Geelong, our programs provide opportunities for social engagement, gentle exercise, creative workshops, and outings, all tailored to participants’ interests.
Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC)
A time-limited program that focuses on helping you regain strength and function, delaying or preventing the need for long-term care.
Privately Funded Home Care
For those who need immediate care or do not qualify for government-funded services, Cultura provides privately funded home care with no waiting periods. Services are fully flexible and can be started as soon as the next day.
THEY’RE DOING IT HOW CAN CULTURA HELP?
HOME & COMMUNITY
AGED CARE
For those who require coordinated, ongoing care, our Home Care Packages provide personalised services tailored to individual needs. Cultura works with you to develop a care plan that includes assistance with daily living, personal care, clinical services,
Social Support Groups (Commonwealth Home
RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE
Embracing Diversity in Aged Care at Cultura
At Cultura, diversity isn’t just acknowledged— it’s celebrated. We’re committed to creating inclusive environments where every older person feels seen, heard, and valued.
With nearly one-third of older Australians born overseas, we tailor our services to reflect the cultures, languages, and life experiences that shape our community. We honour cultural traditions in our care—integrating them into activities, meals, and daily routines to enhance wellbeing, reduce isolation, and build trust.
Food is a key way we celebrate diversity. Meals connect residents to their heritage and identity. We go beyond standard menus by offering
culturally familiar dishes, respecting dietary preferences, and involving residents in menu planning—turning mealtimes into moments of joy.
Our Wellbeing program highlights cultural celebrations throughout the year. In June, we mark events like Mabo Day, Ganga Dussehra, World Refugee Week, and Winter Solstice, offering opportunities for residents to reminisce and connect through shared stories and traditions.
At Cultura, diversity is not just a value—it’s how we care.
ADULT COMMUNITY AND FURTHER EDUCATION
In May, we welcomed the Minister for Skills and TAFE - Gayle Tierney, and the Chair of the ACFE Board - Dr Teresa De Fazio OAM to Cultura.
During their visit, they had the opportunity to meet with our ACFE students, teachers, Cultura’s CEO, and Chair of our Board of Directors, and to hear directly about the real impact of Adult Community and Further Education program on learners’ lives.
The visit highlighted the important role Learn Local providers like Cultura play in supporting adult learners to build skills, gain confidence, and create stronger pathways to employment and further study.
On behalf of Cultura, we would like to thank Minister Tierney and Dr De Fazio for their time and for the continued advocacy and leadership they provide in this vital space.
ANNUAL GIVING APPEAL
Each year, we seek assistance from the community in order to grow our programs and empower others.
In 2025, you can get involved by donating to Cultura Men’s Shed or Cultura Youth Sports programs.
EMPOWER US - CULTURA MEN’S SHED
Help our old blokes feel seen, valued, and connected. Give the gift of purpose.
The old blokes need our help.
Help us raise funds for elderly statesmen of the Geelong community.
Cultura Men’s Shed is an invaluable component of the wellbeing of our elderly residents. By donating towards the Men’s Shed, you will be helping to improve both the facilities and building a connected community.
At Cultura, we’re creating more than just a space, we’re building connection, purpose, and community for the men in our care. The Cultura Men’s Shed has become a vital gathering place for residents from across our services, including Bella Chara and Community programs.
Set within stunning sensory gardens and adjacent to our playground and aviary area, the Shed offers a peaceful, engaging space for men to share stories, skills, and companionship.
Now, we’re seeking your support to take it even
further. By adding an undercover area, we can increase its use year-round, for group activities, family catch-ups, and community events. With your help, we can transform this into a true hub of connection, wellbeing, and joy.
“It reminds me of the old days back home and it brings it all back – brothers coming together from many places and cultures, just being together.”
ZORAN
“After my wife passed, the silence at home was deafening. The Shed brought back laughter into my life.”
SAM
“It’s not just about fixing and making things, it’s about having a bunch of blokes looking out for each other, sharing stories with new mates.”
FRANCESCO
“I didn’t grow up here, but in the Shed, I feel like I belong. We laugh, we work, we share stories from all over.”
ABDUL
“It reminds me of the old days back home and it brings it all back – brothers coming together from many places and cultures, just being together.”
ZORAN
“After my wife passed, the silence at home was deafening. The Shed brought back laughter into my life.”
SAM
Donate now. every gift changes a life.
DONATE : https://www.givenow.com.au/annualgiving-2025-mens-shed
EMPOWER US - CULTURA YOUTH SPORTS
Our youth are the heart of our future. Let’s lift them up together.
Cultura’s Youth Sports program is an invaluable component of the wellbeing of our youth and inturn benefiting our wider community.
By donating towards the Youth Sports program you will be helping participants engage in learning new skills and look at youth topics such as working as a team, addressing racism, law and order, getting a job, respectful relationships, among other beneficial topics.
For many young people in our Youth Sports Academy, 2024 was their first team sport experience – four teams reached the finals, and two took home wins! But this program goes beyond sport. It breaks down barriers – like cost, access, and cultural concerns – so young people can enjoy teamwork, confidence, and growth. Each term, the program combines Volleyball and Futsal training with life skills sessions on topics such as:
• Respectful Relationships
• Employment
• Racism
• Law Demand is growing. In Term 1 alone, over 60 young people joined drop-in sessions. There’s strong interest in expanding, so girls can join
Futsal, and boys can try Volleyball. Funds raised will support player and team registrations and access to local competitions. If we exceed our goal, we hope to launch a round-robin event so all participants can try new sports in a fun, supportive setting!
“In a new Country, it’s easy to feel lost. The Academy has helped me feel seen, supported and part of something BIG.”
“When I first arrived, I didn’t know anyone here. Now I have a team, a hobby and friends who feel like family.”
“Sport helped me stay strong, not just my body but my mind too. The Academy has given me confidence I never had before.”
“It’s more than just sport, it’s where I found connection and people who believe in me.”
“Sport helped me stay strong, not just my body but my mind too. The Academy has given me confidence I never had before.”
“In a new Country, it’s easy to feel lost. The Academy has helped me feel seen, supported and part of something BIG.”
“When I first arrived, I didn’t know anyone here. Now I have a team, a hobby and friends who feel like family.”
Donate today. Be the difference. Fuel their future.
DONATE : https://www.givenow.com.au/annualgiving-2025-youth
REFUGEE WEEK
At Cultura, we believe effective communication is built on respect, clarity, and mutual understanding. These Do’s and Don’ts were co-designed with our clients from refugee backgrounds to help guide respectful and culturally sensitive interactions.
DO
• Smile!
• Be open when meeting people
• Speak clearly, ask if not sure
• Avoid jargon, sarcasm
• Explain technical terms
• Check the message has been understood
• Active listening
DON’T
• Shout
• Mumble or speak too fast
• Rush the person
• Assume anything, always clarify
• Assume that language proficiency equals intelligence
• Stereotype
These tips are a small but important step toward creating inclusive, safe, and supportive environments for everyone.
To learn more about effective cross-cultural communication, check out our Cultural Awareness program: https://www.cultura.org.au/cultural-awareness-program/
