Sarah Tiley celebrates Refugee Week at an event organised by the Multicultural Youth Action Group in Doveton.
THE City of Casey joined forces with the City of Greater Dandenong to celebrate the achievements of young, local refugees during Refugee Week.
Personal stories of difficult journeys were among the highlights at the event at John Pandazopoulos Hall in Doveton recently.
Casey mayor Kevin Bradford, Greater Dandenong mayor Peter Brown and Wurundjeri elder Margaret Gardiner led the official proceedings at the event, which was organised by the Multicultural Youth Action Group (MYAG).
MYAG includes representatives from the City of Casey, City of Greater Dandenong, Foundation House, South East Migrant Resource Centre, Centrelink and Monash Legal Service.
Cr Bradford congratulated a number of young people from Casey who were recognised for their various achievements in study, sport, cross cultural awareness or supporting their families.
“We are fortunate to live in such a vibrant city and benefit from the contributions that young people make in the community,” he said.
“Every young person has experiences to share and something positive to contribute, and on behalf of the City of Casey, I welcome your involvement in helping make Casey such a great place to live.”
Cr Bradford used the opportunity to encourage young migrants and refugees to take an active role in community life, in local sports clubs, youth groups such as the Casey Youth Ambassador program or as volunteers.
The community celebration also included a display of stories from young people who were refugees, a jumping castle, face painting, henna art, art displays, performances, a free Halal barbecue, hip hop dancing, basketball competition, as well as displays from service providers and community groups.
