THREE Victoria University employees have been awarded for their work with the African-Australian community.
Elleni Bereded-Samuel, Dr Charles Mphande and Dr Mimmie Claudine Ngum Chi Watts have been recognised at the Celebration of African Australians awards at Parliament House in Canberra.
Community Health lecturer Dr Watts received a Living Legend Award at the ceremony.
“I’m so happy to receive this award, and hope my research can have an impact in the communities that have been so generous in sharing their stories with me,” Dr Watts said.
Dr Watts recently completed a PhD on the cultural, social and structural barriers which young African-Australian women face in dealing with teenage pregnancy.
“One of my most satisfying volunteer roles in the community has been working with a group of refugee women who, with the right support and advice, learnt to read and write English, got their drivers’ licenses and accessed study and employment,” she said.
“It’s seeing the difference in these people’s lives that makes it all worthwhile.”
Victoria University’s community development manager Elleni Bereded-Samuel was inducted into the award’s Hall of Fame for her contribution to education, training and employment in the areas of media, health and multicultural affairs.
Ms Bereded-Samuel, who was a journalist and teacher in Ethiopia, studied counselling and obtained a Masters in education at Victoria University.
International Community Development lecturer Dr Mphande was recognised for his achievements in education, research, leadership and community engagement.
Dr Mphande has helped develop support networks and training programs for young African Australians.
“An important focus of mine at this university has been helping students ease into the higher education system, linking them with all the support services and opportunities available to them so that they can make the most of their time here,” Dr Mphande said.
