Young people in the Illawarra from refugee and multicultural backgrounds have a new space to meet, learn and feel safe, thanks to an NSW Ports Community Grant.
The $15,000 grant to the Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra (MCCI) will enable 12-24-year-olds from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to come together for social and educational activities and programs.
The new youth space, which was created by refurbishing an underutilised outbuilding, was officially opened today as Multicultural March celebrations continue across the state. It was co-designed by young people to give them a sense of pride and ownership in their community.
NSW Ports General Manager of Infrastructure Peter Engelen said the new space would help young people to build social, cultural and educational connections.
“NSW Ports is an active member of the communities within which we operate and Port Kembla plays an essential role in delivering jobs, trade, sponsorships and support to people in the Illawarra and beyond,” he said.
“Port Kembla has a long history of embracing people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who’ve enriched and continue to contribute so much to the Illawarra. NSW Ports is immensely proud to support current and future generations through our community investments.”
The MCCI is one of 17 recipients of the NSW Ports 2022 Community Grants program. The annual initiative supports organisations that make a difference in the areas surrounding NSW Ports’ sites. Environmental projects, multicultural and First Nations initiatives, social services and local sport and school programs were among the 2022 NSW Ports Community Grants recipients as well.
MCCI’s youth team has more than 4,000 engagements with young people from diverse backgrounds every year to help them become active citizens in the community.
MCCI Chairperson Ken Habak, OAM who has led the organisation for more than two decades, said Multicultural March was the perfect time to unveil the new youth area for people to enjoy.
“We’re focussed on supporting and advocating on behalf of the vibrant, culturally and linguistically diverse people of the Illawarra and providing services that address community needs,” he said.
Image: NSW Ports General Manager of Infrastructure Peter Engelen and MCCI Chairperson Ken Habak, OAM, at the official opening of the new youth space.
“On behalf of MCCI, I thank NSW Ports for their Community Grant that’s helped bring this new youth space to life, which will no doubt make a positive difference in young people’s lives.”
Applications are now open for the 2023 NSW Ports Community Grants program, to help local groups, not-for-profit organisations and schools build thriving communities around NSW Ports’ operational sites. For more information or to apply, visit nswports.com.au/grants.
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Brooke.Eggleton@nswports.com.au | 0419 684 953