Community Voices - Celebrating International Women's Day
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Community Voices
MCCSA
AUTUMN 2021
Celebrating
International
Women's Day
inside this issue Harmony Day
in the park
Multicultural
Men's Walk
Cultural Connections
in Disability
Governor's Multicultural
Awards 2020
UPCOMING
inside this issue MULTICULTURAL EVENTS
A Migrant Journey: P4
Tanya Kaplan OAM
Mental Health P6
Research – African and Kodomo no
Indigenous Population Hi Japan
Ageing well in CALD P10
Festival
communities
Carers assessment at P15 WHEN: Sun 2 May 2021, 11am-4pm
MCCSA
WHERE: Thebarton Community Centre
Promoting COTA P17 www.festival.history.sa.gov.au/events/kodomo-no-hi-japan-festival/
SA’s Strength for Life
Program to Culturally
and Linguistically
Diverse Communities MULTICULTURAL
FESTIVAL VICTORIA TARNTANYANGGA
14 November SQUARE
11am - 5pm FREE EVENT
WHEN: 14 November 2021 WHERE: Victoria Square
MCCSA Board
https://www.dpc.sa.gov.au/responsibilities/multicultural-affairs/
events/the-multicultural-festival
Executive:
Chairperson: Miriam Cocking
Deputy Chairperson: Dr Ian
Harmstorf OAM
Treasurer: Silvio Iadarola
Board Members
Daniela Costa
Gosia Skalban OAM
Rajendra Pandey
Nasir Hussain
Patrizia Kadis
WHEN: Sat 22 May & Sun 23 May 2021
Lenard Sciancalepore WHERE: Adelaide Showgrounds
AUTUMN 2021 | P2
FROM THE CEO
HELENA KYRIAZOPOULOS
Welcome to the autumn edition of Although we have kept COVID-19 Each year His Excellency the
community Voices. at bay, we need to continue Honourable Hieu Van Le AC,
following health advice regarding Governor of South Australia hosts
2021 seems promising and hopefully
vaccinations and maintaining safe the annual Governor’s Multicultural
we will bend the curve and beat the
hygiene practices, now is not the Awards on the wonderful grounds
virus once and for all!
time to become complacent. Our of his home. This year it was lovely
I’d like to thank all our communities recent survey about the vaccine to be back after a brief break due to
for your resilience since the outbreak sent to members shows that there the pandemic. My heartfelt thank
of the COVID-19 virus. Your is a need for more information to be you to His Excellency and Mrs.
cooperation with our local authorities disseminated to our communities. We Le for elevating these awards and
and health experts helped us during will continue to work with SA Health acknowledging the wonderful work of
these challenging times. Thank you to ensure that our communities are our multicultural communities.
for allowing us to support and be with informed about the vaccine and its
Finally, a big thank you to all our
you on this journey over the past 12 roll out timeline.
volunteers for their continued
months which has helped us grow as
This edition of Community Voices support of all our programs, without
an organisation through your resolve
provides an overview of our activities them we would not be able to
in the face of adversity.
and programs including harmony undertake our work.
We are happy to see our Multicultural week celebrations, international
Hope you enjoy this issue of
Community Hub coming back to life women’s day, Governor’s
community voices.
with community groups yet again Multicultural Awards Winners and our
hosting their meetings and activities radio programs on 5EBI 103.1 FM. Helena
in line with COVID guidelines. So
lovely seeing our facility being used
again.
Multicultural
Grants Program
2021-22 open
for applications
https://www.dpc.sa.gov.au/
responsibilities/multicultural-affairs/
grants/advance-together-grants
P3
A Migrant Journey:
Tanya Kaplan OAM
International Women’s Day Award Winner 2021
Driven by the promise of a new life, millions have come from all corners of the globe
to call Australia home. Amongst these waves of migrants are women who played a
significant role in shaping Australia’s history.
For this edition of Community remember Irene and her contribution the Multicultural Aged Care Centre
Voices, we spoke to Tanya Kaplan to the community and women’s issues on the 16th of March 2021 adding
(formerly known as Aysen Hassen), by having the IWD Irene Krastev to the many other awards she has
winner of the Migrant Women’s Award which is annually presented received over the years recognising
Lobby Group, International Women’s to a woman from a migrant or her leadership role in South
Day, Irene Krastev award to share refugee background who has made Australia’s multicultural community.
with us her Australian journey. a significant contribution to the She received an award from the
community and to the participation of Federation of Ethnic Communities
The Migrant Women’s Lobby Group
women in the social, economic, and Council of Australia (FECCA) in
was one of the many groups Irene
educational life of South Australia. 2005 and is also a proud recipient of
helped establish during her lifetime.
the Order of Australia Medal (OAM)
The group decided to honour and Tanya Kaplan received the award at
in 2017.
AUTUMN 2021 | P4
Talking about her Australian Journey Tanya was the first Welfare Worker grandmother. There is no limitation to
Tanya said she arrived in Adelaide for the Muslim Women’s Association learn. It’s not what I achieved but how
Australia in 1970 and has been living and while President of the Turkish I achieved it’ said Tanya.
in South Australia all these years. community in SA Tanya decided
In relation to gender equality, Tanya
to start her tertiary studies at
Born in Cyprus, a British colony in said Australia has a long way to go. “In
the University of South Australia
those days, Tanya said she had always Australia I don’t think we are ready
(UNISA), graduating with a Diploma
wanted to live in an English speaking yet to have gender equality, look at
in University Studies, Bachelor
country when growing up. Adelaide wages, how it differs between male
of Social Work Degree and a
or Australia wasn’t her first choice and female. When Julia Gillard was
Master’s degree in public policy and
but as fate would have it, marriage PM she receieved a lot of negativity
management at Flinders University.
brought her to Adelaide. that is not normally done to men,
She taught at Flinders University,
Tanya spent her first 4 years as a look at the number of females in the
Cambridge International College and
house wife in Adelaide. In 1974, her political parties” said Tanya.
TAFE.
husband bought a farm in Murray Talking about migrant women and
Tanya’s colourful journey took her on
Bridge and soon she became an the challenges they face Tanya said
different paths during and after her
instant gardener and the biggest overall migrant women are very
studies. In 2000 she started working
tomato grower in South Australia, resilient. They came and had to learn
as the Community Visitor Scheme
managing 40 big glasshouses and English, study, look after their kids
(CVS) Coordinator at MCCSA and
many casual workers. and still go to work. “So it’s laughable
also helped establish the South-East
Difficulties associated with farming when they get asked at job interviews
Asia Reconnect program which is
led Tanya to move back to Adelaide ‘are you resilient’ to a woman who has
still on-going at the MCCSA. She
where she took up Braille translation been through so much”.
was also an interpreter in Turkish and
as a hobby, and eventually started then later became a NAATI qualified Tanya’s parting advice for migrant
working as Braille Transcriber at St interpreter and translator. communities is for people to go out
Francis of Assisi school, Charles and do volunteer jobs. “If you go
Tanya was dealing with many
Campbell Secondary School and out and volunteer you get to meet
communities and organizations
Modbury High school. Her school people, you learn that knowledge
including Centrelink. This experience
based experience helped her to is power, you give back to the
helped her gain a position at
become a Bilingual School Services community, you gain friends and you
Centrelink as a Multicultural
Officer in many schools. learn a lot, you integrate better into
Specialist.
From that time onward Tanya society and don’t build walls around
Tanya said she is happy with the job yourself.
immersed herself in the Turkish
because she likes to help migrants,
community and the multicultural “This is a beautiful country, it has
especially new arrivals.
sector in South Australia. Realising social services, it got social security,
that Braille translation was not “I've been through social isolation; and they value people, take advantage
enough for her she launched into I didn’t know any Turkish speaking of these opportunities”.
tertiary education which is something people when I arrived. I was very
It was great speaking with Tanya
she had missed out on due to isolated, so I like to help new arrivals,
and we appreciate her sharing her
marrying at a young age. particularly the ladies. I like to hold
Australian journey with us. We
their hands, show them that we have
“I always wanted to go to university, congratulate Tanya on her award
all these services in Australia, and
but I was married young, I was forced and wish her all the very best for the
encourage them not to be in the
to get out of Cyprus because of the future.
house all the time and get bored,
political situation, so I couldn’t go to
depressed and all that”. ‘I started
university” said Tanya.
my tertiary education when I was a
P5
Mental Health Research – African
and Indigenous Population
Over the years the SA in 2011. We spoke with Kudzai about According to Kudzai there is a
Government has amplified his research and what’s motivating currently a low utilization of mental
him to pursue mental health study. health services by these two
its efforts to develop and
communities and this is in stark
implement mental health Kudzai is currently doing a PHD
contrast with the high levels of mental
in Mental Health at University of
policies to protect and Adelaide while working part-time at
health issues in those two community
promote the mental well- the University and doing part time
groups.
being of South Australians. counselling work at Beyond Blue. Below is an excerpt from Kudzai on
Treatment for mental disorders has Previously he also worked with the his research.
improved substantially over the past Flying Doctors flying to remote
‘The debate about mental illness and
decade and many in the mainstream communities to provide medical
stigma has been going on for a long
society have benefited from this. support.
time and it is important to understand
However, people from migrant Kudzai's interest in his research where the issue of stigma originated
communities and the indigenous was spurred on by his work in from. There are some who believe
population still need some catching the Northern Territory with the mental illness is not a real illness and
up to do when it comes to dealing indigenous community where he it is people seeking attention or just a
with mental health disorders. noticed similarities in the way they behavioural issue.
References to mental illness can be perceived mental health with the
People suffering with mental illness
found throughout history. For some African community.
face difficulties dealing with the
communities in the CALD sector and He said there were so many symptoms of mental illness and also
indigenous population mental health similarities in the culture, the way of prejudice from the public including
is associated with superstition and life, the family system, the kinship their own families who are supposed
cultural beliefs. system and the totem system of to care for them (Colthran 2012).
The MCCSA is currently supporting both the African and indigenous For centuries, mental illness has
Kudzai Nyamande, a University of population. been associated with spirituality in
Adelaide student, with his PHD all communities. In Ancient times,
“Everything is similar, even the
research into the relationship Spiritualism dominated any sort of
perception of mental health was
between stigma and the low utilization scientific reasoning, demons or bad
similar, the stigma issues about
of mental health services by the spirits were thought of as causing the
ancestral spirits, about superstitions,
African and indigenous population in unusual behaviours of mental illness.
witchcraft its all so similar so I
South Australia. thought let me see how I can help
A skilled migrant from Zimbabwe the population regarding mental
Kudzai came to Australia from the UK health”.
AUTUMN 2021 | P6
This research will be a partnership This study will draw on Indigenous utilisation, enable early treatment
process involving dialogue between decolonising methodologies using approaches, reduce suicide rates
people with different perspectives. collaborative, culturally responsive and improve quality of care for the
The sample will consist of 6 people research methods and a constructivist communities.’
from African communities with grounded theory approach. The
For more information on this
mental illness, 6 people from African community will draw on the
piece of work, please contact
indigenous communities with mental concept of Ubuntu as an ontological
Kudzai Nyamande by emailing
health issues; three mental health approach. This research project
nyamandek@hotmail.com
nurses/allied workers each from will be relevant as it will be able to
target population working with target facilitate further discussions around
group and 2 senior figures in the stigma in mental health, influence
community working at Policy level policies in working with these target
with target groups. communities to improve service
P7
MCCSA Multicultural
playgroup term 1 in 2021
By Abby Liu
MCCSA was happy to
reopen our Multicultural
playgroup in February after
it’s suspension due to the
COVID-19 pandemic in
2020.
This playgroup has a playgroup
coordinator and several playgroup
volunteers and a wonderful variety of
toys for children aged 0 to 5 years.
Playgroups give children the
opportunity to play with each other,
learn crucial social skills and learn
some simple rules. The parents or
carers who come with their children
have a chance to communicate
with other parents and share their
experience and information.
MCCSA volunteers follow the
Guidelines of COVID Safe Playgroup
and clean all toys at the end of
each playgroup session as well as
paying more attention on maintain
environmental hygiene.
16 families participated in this year’s The parents get involved in the arts the multicultural community and
term 1 playgroup. Children from and crafts as well. make new friends. We look forward
these families spoke Dari, French, to seeing you in the playgroup for a
At the end of this term, we held the
Hindi, Mandarin and Cantonese. In joyful time.
first birthday party celebration with
this term, we had a focus on different
all our participants for 3 children If you would like more information or
crafts and undertook activities such
Isabell, Hrida, and Nicole. We want to attend with your child, please
as making children’s name cards with
provided plate-painting and planting contact the playgroup coordinator
fine egg shells, special wooden clips,
for children. All parents prepared Abby Liu on abby.liu@mccsa.org.
as well as Easter bunny gift bags.
different foods to share in the party. au, or program coordinator Lena
We had very positive feedback from We had a great fun time together. Gasparyan on 8213 4606 or lena.
some mums attending the playgroup gasparyan@mccsa.org.au. Mothers,
The playgroup provides a suitable
saying that they enjoy the playgroup fathers or carers are welcome to
and safe environment for children
as it gives them a chance to relax and attend with children from culturally
to play as well as a chance for Mums
chat with friends. and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
(and Dads or carers) to connect to
AUTUMN 2021 | P8
Importance of vaccination - Health
and Immunisation Management
Services (HAIMS)
Fortunately, in Australia If we let our guard down believing any safety signals. https://www.tga.
a strong majority of our these diseases no longer pose gov.au/ ; https://www.ausvaxsafety.
a threat, we will witness the re- org.au/
community support emergence of disease and the cruel
vaccination. It is important to remember when
consequences on our communities.
researching information about
We appreciate the benefits every day This was the case for a community
vaccines, that reputable sources are
in Australia, free of the devastating in the Netherlands in 1992-1993
used, seeking out well referenced
effects of widespread Polio, Measles who chose not to vaccinate and
scientific articles and websites, as
and Diphtheria to mention a few, and where polio resurfaced. Seventy-one
well as referring to your doctor
where we are witnessing a remarkable people were involved, and none were
or specialist. Know the FACTS.
decreases in cancers caused by vaccinated. Two died and 59 suffered
https://www.ncirs.org.au/our-
Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPD) paralysis. They were aged between 10
work/sharing-knowledge-about-
since the introduction of Hepatitis B days and 61 years.
immunisation
and Human Papilloma Virus vaccines. As with Polio the risk of complications
Christine Benger RN
When we have high vaccination rates, associated with all these diseases can
diseases are less likely to spread from be serious and long term. Champion Nurse Immunisation
person to person. This is referred Program coordinator
Invasive meningococcal disease
to as “herd” immunity and offers has the ability to leave victims
valuable protection to those in our permanently scarred or as amputees.
communities unable to be vaccinated,
the very old, and the very young. It Chickenpox can lead to serious
also is protecting future generations. bacterial infections of the skin, lungs
and brain. Measles can lead to serious
In the past, people witnessed the lung infection, brain damage and
suffering VPD had on loved ones, death.
so the benefit of vaccination was
obvious. We can be confident that the
vaccines used in Australia undergo
Now that our disease burden is rigorous testing and regulation before
low, some people may question the being granted a license and are
continuing relevance and value of monitored closely after release for
vaccination.
P9
Ageing Well in CALD Communities
In 2021 the Multicultural This education and awareness- to become more resilient and
Communities Council raising program aims to safeguard communities to become more
older people from culturally and innovative, inclusive and accepting of
of South Australia in linguistically diverse backgrounds so people of all ages.
collaboration with the Office that they can live a safe, healthy and
MCCSA acknowledges the important
for Ageing Well will be once independent life.
role community leaders play in
again delivering Ageing Well As set in the South Australia’s Plan making sure that both older people
in CALD Communities for Ageing Well (2021-2025) and the communities have knowledge
project to four communities. ‘Inspire, Motivate and Innovate’ and understanding of resources and
MCCSA will be working towards strategies that support people to
helping older South Australians age well, safeguard their rights and
prevent elder abuse.
Carers
If yes, you may be entitled to extra Getting an assessment is the first
support/help from the Australian step to getting help!
Federal Government.
assessment MCCSA in collaboration with Carers
If you consider yourself a carer or
know someone who is a carer please
at MCCSA
SA can arrange for you to have a contact us via details provided below
carers assessment. to arrange for an assessment.
Are you providing support to A carers assessment works out Email: florine.fernandes@mccsa.org.
whether you qualify for support and au or call 82134607
a relative or a friend who has
services that can help you in your or 0449 896 202 or visit us at:
ongoing illness, disability or is caregiver role. MCCSA, 113 Gilbert St, Adelaide.
elderly?
AUTUMN 2021 | P10Speak My Language
Culturally and linguistically
diverse communities and
Indigenous communities
talking about living well with
a disability in Australia
MCCSA is partnering with the
Ethnic Communities’ Council of
New South Wales (ECCNSW) on
implementing the national ‘Speak
My Language – Living Well with a
Disability in Australia’ program in
South Australia.
Speak My Language (SML)
involves CaLD and Indigenous
Australians with disabilities and
their supporters sharing real stories
and real experiences through
podcasts, broadcast media and
other online platforms. The stories
will provide practical tips on utilising Get involved! the human rights of people with
personal skills and talents, along with disability, and about learning how to
Be a Storyteller: Why not share your create podcasts about living well with
community resources and networks, story about living well with disability
in order to live well with disability disability.
in your community language? Let’s
– at home, in the community, and talk about life – working, studying, MCCSA is currently specifically
at work or school. Other interviews shopping, travel, hobbies, friends… looking for Storytellers and Guest
with guest speakers give further let’s talk about living well! Speakers who speak the following
information about inclusive places, community languages: Kuku, Spanish,
activities, and opportunities for you to Be a Guest Speaker: Do you speak Swahili and Mandarin.
enjoy. The content will be delivered in a community language? Do you
have something to share about For general information visit
over 25 community languages.
finding inclusive places, activities www.speakmylanguage.com.au
and opportunities? We want to or email info@speakmylanguage.
know about anything and everything com.au.
inclusive in South Australia. If you are based in SA and would
Be a Bi-lingual Facilitator: MCCSA like to get involved in the project,
is looking for Bi-lingual Facilitators, contact: Hanaa Grave, Disability
who are well connected in their Programs Coordinator,
community, are passionate about E: hanaa.grave@mccsa.org.au
P: (08) 8213 4611
P11Harmony Day in the Park
MCCSA staff together MCCSA would also like to thank the engage with new families who were
with a group of marvellous Metropolitan Fire Service, especially celebrating the Harmony Day in
Phil who came along with information Australia for the first time.
volunteers, knights in shining and a nice child activity about the
armours, organized a splendid And at the end of the day celebrating
right thing to do if dealing with fire.
Australia’s cultural diversity, it’s about
child friendly all-inclusive Face painters, ball pit, arts and inclusiveness, respect and a sense of
event at Marshmallow park craft, treasure hunt and at the end belonging for everyone.
on Sunday 21st of March and everyone walked away with a small
We thank to all attendees, volunteers
it was a big success!. seedling of a kitchen herb to grow at
and the Management for this
home together with the family.
The event was made possible thanks wonderful event.
to the funding from the City of We saw families from our current and
Adelaide, for which MCCSA is most past programs, like the Kickstart and
grateful. the Playgroups. It was also great to
AUTUMN 2021 | P12Disability Advocacy &
Complaints Service of
South Australia Inc
DISABILITY is a word used We are INDEPENDENT which number and language and we can call
to describe many different means we are not connected to you with an interpreter. Translation
services or people that affect our also available.
things that might cause a ability to advocate for your rights.
person’s physical or mental DACSSA values courage, respect,
We are FREE and CONFIDENTIAL. integrity and diversity, making us a
functioning to be affected. safe place for all people with disability.
We can help you explore things that
Every person has rights. Humans
are important to you like your goals, You can contact us by phone, or in
RIGHTS are basic freedoms and
worries, and options to make things writing by email or on our website, or
entitlements that belong to everyone.
better. have someone you trust contact us.
Sometimes people with disability are
We understand that culture and
treated differently and worse than
relationships are important, so we
other people. When this happens, 08 7122 6030
work with the people you trust to help
DACSSA provides advocacy. admin@dacssa.org.au
you.
ADVOCACY is speaking on behalf www.dacssa.org.au
We can support you in your language.
of someone to protect their rights.
Contact us with your name, phone
We are trained disability advocates.
P13N E W FA C E S AT M C C S A
Victoria Tairli
Carer Gateway Program
Victoria is a new employee at
MCCSA facilitating the Carer
Luis Cohen Sisaleo Philavong
Community Visitor Scheme Student Placement,
Gateway program for CALD Flinders University
communities. This project aims to Luis Cohen recently joined
support carers who provide care for Multicultural Communities Council Sisaleo is a fourth year University
their relatives or friends. of South Australia (MCCSA) as student from Flinders University
a Project Officer, within the CVS studying Bachelor of Disability
Many carers feel overwhelmed Developmental Education. He’s
Community Visitor Scheme program.
with their caring role, many of currently on Student placement here
them experience health or financial Luis holds a bachelor of Economics
with us at Multicultural Communities
problems, especially people with from AUTONOMA DE
Council Working alongside Hanaa,
language or cultural barrier who OCCIDENTE UNIVERSITY
Megan and Judith in various projects
doesn’t know where to go for help. in Colombia and one Advance
such as the Community Connector
Diploma of International Business
In her new role Victoria will be project, Speak my Language, and the
and Trade from ICESI University
guiding carers to access services and Peer leadership program. Sisaleo is
in Colombia. Luis has 5 years of
organisations where they will be able Laotian, born in Australia. He began
experience working as a Financial
to find support. his journey working in the disability
Analyst for different companies
space as a disability advocate in early
Victoria migrated to Australia such as construction and financial
teens over 20 years ago representing
with her husband and two children organizations.
the needs of people with disabilities in
from Russia, in 2013. She is also a
Luis migrated to Australia from his local community of Salisbury on
volunteer in the Russian Women’s
Colombia and joined MCCSA in the youth advisory council and in his
Association of SA (RWASA),
2019 as a Volunteer in the CVS high school. He has been honoured
where she serve on the Committee
program and started visiting older with the Duke of Edinburgh award,
as Treasurer. The Association was
Spanish speaking residents in care young Citizen of the year award for
formed to engage and involve Russian
facilities across Adelaide. the City of Salisbury, and Young
women within the South Australian
Being a volunteer helped Luis to South Australian of the year in 2004
community.
develop his social skills and he hopes in recognition of his Community
Victoria is currently studying a work.
to make the CVS program grows and
Women’s Advocacy course at TAFE.
improves the wellbeing of the elderly
in our community.
AUTUMN 2021 | P14The Skilled & Business Migration’s State Nomination
International Workforce Team Skilled migrants can apply for a
provides a range of services and permanent or provisional state
Interested in resources to assist skilled migrants nominated visa depending on their
a student successfully settle in South Australia. occupation and situation.
placement at We have a wealth of practical The Talent and Innovators program
information and access to FREE provides opportunities and pathways
MCCSA? support services which may help for highly skilled migrants who can
Call us on you through the employment and contribute to South Australia’s
8345 5266 settlement process. These include: critical priority sectors. The Talent
and Innovators program allows the
Recognition of Qualifications
state to nominate applicants under
Improve your employment prospects one of the following four streams.
in South Australia by having your » Employment stream: For highly
He is known for his public speaking overseas qualifications assessed. skilled migrants who are working
skills, lifelong volunteering, and for South Australian businesses
Recognition of Trade Skills
commitment to raising awareness » Start up and small business
The Skilled Migrant Trade
of disability issues. What he loves stream: For entrepreneurial
Recognition Pathway Program is
most is listening and learning to skilled migrants who have started
designed to support skilled migrants
the stories of other people and to their own business in South
gain the compulsory Australian skills
Champion the stories of individuals Australia
gap training required to get a full
through their experience living » High performing graduate stream:
workers’ licence.
with Cerebral Palsy. He has helped For high performing graduates
shape the city of Salisbury’s Finding work who have completed their
beyond the ramp strategic Information and resources for skilled qualification at a South Australian
framework, involved in highlighting migrants to find work within their higher education institution
the issues of SACE for people area of expertise through effective » Independent talent stream: For
with a disability and been a part of job search strategies. high calibre applicants seeking
the South Australian government’s state nomination
Social Inclusion Board, consulting Fact sheets
New to South Australia?
on employment pathways for For further support or information We have put together a publication
people with a disability. on working and living in South relating to life in Adelaide and South
His interests also include listening Australia, view our downloadable fact Australia. With topics covering
to music, playing table tennis, sheets. These include: housing and accommodation,
tennis, and Basketball. » Australian Values and Workplace education, multicultural support,
Culture community participation plus so
» Resume writing styles and much more in our Settlement
principles information pack
» Application tracking system CONTACT US
» Understanding visa holders work We are always here to help. If you
rights can’t find what you are looking
» Volunteering for, contact us by visiting: www.
migration.sa.gov.au/contact-us
P15Struggling at school? Flexible
Learning could be an option!
There are many reasons why young
people might benefit from extra
support with their learning. For
example, some young people struggle
due to bullying, difficulties in their
personal lives, or because of the
challenges of learning in their non-
native language.
All school aged migrants and refugees
face initial or ongoing challenges
adapting to learning in an unfamiliar
education system. Unfortunately, the
challenges they face can sometimes
put them at risk of dropping out of
school altogether. But there are other
options.
their learning, and to help develop Adroa worked hard. FLO staff worked
During 2020, over 500 young
valuable life skills. To do this they also with him 1-1 on his subject work, and
people across Adelaide sought
offer literacy, numeracy, art, cooking, he received weekly case management
support from Baptist Care SA’s
sports and cultural programs. support. He was also connected
Flexible Learning Options (FLO)
into Baptist Care SA’s Art Attack
program, and almost 1 in 10 had FLO staff sit with young people and
Program to explore his passion for art.
English as a second language. their parents/guardians to identify
their goals, and then they work During the year he completed year 12
The program offers extra assistance
together with them to help achieve and a TAFE course. His whole family
to young people, including onsite
them. celebrated when they learned that he
counselling, 1-1 support with school
had passed both! Adroa became the
work and small class sizes. The team “We stay in regular communication
first in his family to complete high
work with young people who are still throughout their young person’s
school in Australia.
connected to school, as well as those time in FLO - working together
who have stopped going. This support with students and their parents and If your child is in a government high
can happen in different places, caregivers,” explains Baptist Care SA school and no more than 21 years old,
including; FLO Manager Nerissa Tiss. they may be eligible for Baptist Care
» in school SA’s FLO program.
Adroa* was at risk of failing high
» in the community school. He had arrived as a refugee To learn more about how the program
» at flexible learning centres but was struggling with the language. could support you or your child,
» at Tafe SA please speak with your/your child’s
“We organised many meetings
school, visit https://baptistcaresa.org.
Every young person is unique, and with Adroa’s school, his family and
au or contact 8209 5000.
so is the support they receive. Staff translators so that everyone was
work creatively with students to re- aware of what needed doing and how *not his real name
connect them with their passions, to he was tracking,” explains FLO Team
Leader Madeline Keatley.
AUTUMN 2021 | P16Promoting COTA SA’s Help for consumers
impacted by
Strength for Life Program to COVID-19 –
Culturally and Linguistically Australian Energy
Diverse Communities Regulator
Support is available for
COTA SA is the peak body representing 633,000 South
residential and small businesses
Australians over the age of 50; we offer a wide range of customers experiencing
programs and services designed for, with and by older people. financial stress as a result of
Strength for Life is a progressive resistance training program for people over COVID-19 restrictions, in
50, currently held in over 100 centres across South Australia. This program line with the AER’s Statement
concentrates on strength and balance exercises, with an emphasis on social of Expectations of energy
connection. Every person has their own tailored program with a fitness businesses: Protecting
professional. customers and the energy
market during COVID-19.
The benefits people gain through the Strength for Life program include more
Call your retailer and ask about
energy, better sleep, less stress, greater social connections and increased
the help available to you, like
confidence. Regular exercise can also control weight, reduce the risk of chronic
a payment plan or hardship
conditions, prevent falls and increase muscle strength and joint movement.
program supports.
Further information about Strength for Life can be found on COTA SA’s
In recognition of the ongoing
website www.cotasa.org.au
impact of COVID-19 on
At COTA SA we are working to ensure that the Strength for Life Program is the community, the AER’s
within reach of every South Australian, regardless of their cultural background expectations of support for
and that it is delivered in a culturally responsive way. customers have been extended
If you would like to discuss how Strength for Life could be more accessible to to 30 June 2021. If you are
culturally and linguistically diverse community members or if you are interested worried about paying your bill,
in participating in Strength for Life, please contact reach out to your retailer about
your energy debt. They will
Clara Tait work with you to make sure you
Cultural Diversity Officer, Strength for Life stay connected.
T: 08 8232 0422 E: ctait@cotasa.org.au
It is important that you reach
out to your retailer as soon as
possible before 30 June 2021
so you can access the extra
supports available now.
https://www.aer.gov.au/
consumers/help-for-
consumers-impacted-by-
covid-19#aer-s-expectations-
of-energy-retailers
P17Winners of the 2020 Twelve award recipients were chosen from 25 finalists across nine award
Governor’s Multicultural categories:
Awards were announced Outstanding Individual Achievement Public Sector Award: Department
at an award ceremony at Award: Mr. Hussain Razaiat and Mr for Education Bilingual and Cultural
Roger Lean (joint winners) Support EALD Student Support
Government House on
Services Team
Tuesday 16 March 2021. Arts and Culture Award: ActNow
Theatre and Food Tours Australia Senior Volunteer Award: Mrs. Leila
His Excellency the Honourable (joint winners) Mansour and Mr. Raymond Sardana
Hieu Van Le AC, Governor of South (joint winners)
Australia, presented the awards at the Community Sector Award:
event, held in celebration of South Grandparents for Grandchildren Volunteer Award: Mr. Nayan Perera
Australia’s cultural diversity. Media Award: Ethnic Broadcasters Youth Award: Mr. Qasem
Incorporated Bahmanzadah
Private Sector Award: City Medical You can read more about the
Centre achievements of the 2020 award
recipients and finalists at
www.dpc.sa.gov.au/responsibilities/
multicultural-affairs/events/the-
governors-multicultural-awards
AUTUMN 2021 | P18Celebrating International
Women’s Day 2021
Reflecting on the long and Tuesday 9th and 23rd of March, both Ms Chouhdry commented “Best
challenging path to the events talking about International examples have come from countries
Women’s Day from a CALD where at that top level women had
women’s equality struggle, perspective. been leading like New Zealand and
MCCSA CEO Helena some of the European countries.
On Tuesday 9th February MCCSA
Kyriazopoulos said women chairperson, Mrs. Miriam Cocking,
Those countries have being doing
all over the world deserve was joined by Ms. Lily Michailov,
much better. They proved that it
an equal future free from works”.
President Russian Women’s
stigma, stereotypes and Association of SA, and Chazia Ms Lily Michailov added, “Statistics
violence. Chouhdry, Vice President Muslim tell us that during the pandemic
Australian Connections of SA, lockdown the biggest number who
In line with this year’s at 5EBI 103.1 FM to share their suffered were single or older women.
International Women’s Day theme perspective on the meaning and It is very wrong. Women’s voice and
#ChooseToChallenge, Helena said celebration of international women’s needs were not heard or listened
this is the time for us to challenge day and the importance of women’s to. Post Covid we should focus on
gender bias and inequality. She said leadership in achieving an equal future women’s needs much more than ever
attaining a sustainable future in which in a COVID-19 world. before”.
gender equality is the norm for all
should be our priority. “In order for us Echoing women’s role in the society, MCCSA Chair Miriam Cocking
to get there women must be part of all three women agreed that it thanked the guests and also joined
all decision making for our future”. was imperative that women were in wishing Ms Lily Michailov a Happy
equally represented at every level. Birthday.
This year the MCCSA hosted two For example; female-led countries
radio events at 5EBI 103.1 FM. On hadhandled the pandemic better.
P19Multicultural Men’s Walk
Multicultural Men's Group of This tradition continues today as the walking. “It is the key to our health
SA hosted a one hour walk, turnout was great, the weather was and wellbeing as walking improves
cool and the conversations were our fitness, alleviates depression and
starting off from Bonython stimulating. Adelaide residents and fatigue, improves our mood and keeps
Park to the River Torrens / visitors alike were out and about us active, which is good for both our
Karrawirra Parri which runs enjoying a range of activities along physical and mental health”.
through the city of Adelaide. the banks and on the waters.
MCCSA’s Men’s group appreciate
The river has long been a place to The Multicultural Men’s work is a the turn out and hope to see more
meet and socialise for the Kaurna great opportunity for men from men join us for these monthly walks
people. They called it Karrawirra diverse background to meet and talk which will be taking place in various
Parri, meaning “river of the Red and extend their network. parts of Adelaide.
Gum forest” referring to the dense According to the Multicultural Men’s It’s really therapeutic to walk and talk.
eucalyptus forest that used to line the Walk event coordinator Sidique We look forward to our next walk in
banks prior to European settlement. Bah , there are many benefits to May 2021.
AUTUMN 2021 | P20Community Connectors and Peer Leaders attending their first Training Session on disability and the NDIS, facilitated by Maria Eliadis from KDG Partnerships.
Cultural Connections in Disability –
Multicultural Peer Support Model,
Individual Capacity Building &
Empowerment in Disability
This project supports people We will do this by: Cultural Connections is delivered
living with disability in our » Connecting to people living with by a consortium group led by the
disability, their families and carers MCCSA. The project includes:
communities to live a full and Australians for Syria SA, Iranian
in our community.
fulfilling life. Women Organisation of SA, Vishva
» Providing them with support,
Community leaders and bi-lingual training and resources to get great Hindu Parishad of Australia Inc,
‘Community Connectors’ will be outcomes from the NDIS and Congolese Community of South
working over the next two years to other disability services. Australia, St Elias Antiochian
strengthen our community’s ability to Orthodox Church Parish Association,
» Increasing the participation of
make a positive difference in the lives Chinese Welfare Services of SA,
people living with disability and
of people living with disability, their KDG Partnerships and Uniting SA.
their families in the life of our
families and carers. This project is funded under the
community.
Australian Government’s Information
» Strengthening the community’s
Linkages and Capacity Building
awareness and acceptance of
program.
disability and actively challenging
misconceptions and stereotypes.
P21Aged 50 -74? This free
test finds early signs of
bowel cancer.
Bowel cancer is a big problem I have symptoms or a family Statistics show that one
for all Australians aged 50 history of bowel cancer. What in three South Australians
should I do?
and over. It is recommended If you have symptoms of bowel
affected by cancer are from
that people aged 50 and over cancer or a family history, speak with culturally and linguistically
complete a bowel screening your doctor right away. Symptoms diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
test every two years. include: However, participation in cancer
The good news is that bowel cancer » blood on the toilet paper, or in the screening programs, such as the
can be treated successfully when it toilet National Bowel Cancer Screening
is found early. The National Bowel » unexplained changes in your bowel Program, is lower among those who
Cancer Screening Program has a free habits such as straining or loose speak a language other than English
and simple test that you can do at bowel motions at home compared with English
home in private to find early signs of » unexplained weight loss speakers (34.1 per cent compared to
bowel cancer. » feeling tired or breathless 46.4 per cent).
How do I get my test from the » abdominal pain or bloating If you or someone you know is going
National Bowel Cancer Screening through cancer and you would like
What can I do to help my
Program? more information, we are here to
community?
Australians aged 50-74 who have a help.
Cancer Council SA can support you
Medicare card are eligible for a free Give Cancer Council SA a call on 13
to raise awareness in your community
home test kit every two years. 11 20 – our trained cancer nurses
with resources (https://www.
What if I’m not eligible? cancersa.org.au/health-professionals/ are familiar with using telephone
If you aren’t aged 50-74 or don’t support-and-services/translated- interpreters (via TIS 131 450) and can
have a Medicare card, speak with your resources/) and community talks answer your questions or queries.
doctor about screening and where to about the importance of cancer Click on the links below for more
get a test. screening tests, reducing risk of information in languages other than
Can I get a new test if I lost mine? cancer or our cancer support English.
Yes. Call the program information line services. Contact Shahla Rostami
1800 627 701. Call TIS first if you 08 8291 4147 or email
need an interpreter and ask them to srostami@cancersa.org.au
connect you.
AUTUMN 2021 | P22protect yourself
know the scam
Don’t get
stung by
COVID -19
vaccine
scams
The COVID-19 vaccination IS FREE, however scammers will seek to exploit
South Australians during the rollout, so be on the lookout for fraudulent
phone calls, messages and advertisements.
To learn how to protect yourself and Know The Scam
visit www.police.sa.gov.au/scams
Report all scams to www.scamwatch.gov.au and if you have suffered
a loss as a result of a scam, report it to www.cyber.gov.au/report
Supported by:
Neighbourhood
Watch SA P23MCCSA SERVICES
MCCSA CHSP The languages currently spoken by our
volunteers are: Bosnian, Cantonese,
Healthy Ageing
Transport Service Croatian, Filipino, French, German, MCCSA supports
Greek, Hungarian, Hindi, Italian, community members to
Our transport service is well
Japanese, Latvian, Mandarin, Lithuanian, stay connected and receive
used and helps many of our frail and
Polish, Russian, Spanish, Ukrainian, the support and information they need
older members of the CALD community
Hungarian, Serbian, Swedish, Danish, as they age . In addition to advocacy and
go on excursions and attend Day Centre
Arabic, Farsi (Persian), Dari and forums we also participate in research
programs. Community groups use our
Vietnamese. such as the CALD age friendly SA
service for trips to places of cultural
report and our current collaboration with
or tourist interest. This provides their If you would like to make use of our
Flinders university on social support.
members with an opportunity to socialise service or join our team of volunteers
MCCSA supports three art groups for
in comfort and tranquility. call Isabella Bracco at MCCSA on
members of the Korean, Spanish speaking
To hire our buses at very reasonable rates, 8213 4604
and Russian speaking communities. We
call us on 8213 4608 or email sidique.
have a digital training program for seniors.
bah@mccsa.org.au MCCSA In 2018 and 2019 we are facilitating ‘
Carer Support Community Hall Knowing your Rights’ in collaboration
with OFTA for ethnospecific community
A diverse range of community
Group groups use our 50 seating
organisations for older people. Cooking
videos and interviews with senior cooks
MCCSA in Collaboration capacity hall for meetings, forums, from our very successful ‘Food from our
with Carers SA are supporting carers workshops and functions Free of Homeland’ project will be on our website
in their caring role with a new program. charge if they are a registered MCCSA later this year..
The Carers Support Group provides community group. A donation is
For any enquiries on this program
information about wellness and self-care appreciated for rubbish removal and
please call Kristin on 8213 4603 or
and opportunities to connect and support electricity.
email kristin.johansson@mccsa.org.au.
one another. The Hall is also available for commercial
For more information, please contact: hire.
Florine.fernandes@mccsa.org.au or call For more information in accessing the
Reconnect
83455266. MCCSA hall call June on 8345 5266 Services
or email mccsa@mccsa.org.au for terms
MCCSA provides individual
Community and conditions of use.
support to young people that
Visitor Scheme Successful
are having trouble at home. This is an
early intervention program to prevent
Our Community Visitor
Scheme facilitates one-on- Communities youth homelessness and can provide
information, support, counseling,
one friendship between older Successful Communities is mediation, practical support , and group
people in residential care and community focused on providing individual activities.
visitors speaking their language. They support to vulnerable and emerging For further information or referral please
visit at least twice a month to build culturally diverse communities and their contact Megan megan.hill@mccsa.org.
relationships. They add some warmth to members. au or Savry savry.ouk@mccsa.org.au on
the life of our senior citizens by reducing For further information please call 8213 4605.
their loneliness and isolation. Megs Lamb on 8213 4610 or email
megs.lamb@mccsa.org.au
AUTUMN 2021 | P24Kickstart your Youth
child's success Engagement Going Places
program MCCSA runs a range of with MCCSA
youth engagement activities in If you are a registered
Raising children and effective parenting
multiple locations across the northern community organization or
without support can
and western suburbs that incorporate a service provider join the
be difficult. To better understand the MCCSA to organize outings,
soccer, hip hop, employment support,
challenges of childhood, safeguards, picnics, sightseeing tours and
intercultural connections, leadership
services and support available in Australia other social activities for our
development and event planning
for your family, MCCSA is introducing CALD seniors and people
a new program Kick-start Your Child’s For more information please contact from our new and emerging
Success. This program will run from Ukash or send an email to ukash. communities.
2018-2021 and help mothers of ahmed@mccsa.org.au
Four Toyota Hiace buses
preschool children to provide a successful are available on Mondays
start for their children. Fathers and Justice of the Peace and Tuesdays including the
grandparents are also welcome to attend. MCCSA also offers the services weekend.
If you speak Spanish, Swahili, Dinka, of a JP, to book an appointment, For more information email
Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Arabic, Persian, call the office on 8345 5266. Sidique.bah@mccsa.org.au
Hazaraghi, Mandarin, Khmer and
Japanese at home and have preschool
children, we have got you covered.
For more information contact Lena
Gasparyan on 8213 4606 or Lena.
Gasparyan@mccsa.org.au
Disability and
the NDIS
Navigating the disability and NDIS space
can be very complex.
MCCSA provides disability and NDIS
community capacity building and
awareness raising activities around
disability, how to live well with disability
and the NDIS through the NDIS
Community Connector Program,
Cultural Connections in Disability as well
as the Speak My Language program.
For further information contact Megan
megan.hill@mccsa.org.au,
Judith Judith.owour@mccsa.org.au or
Hanaa hanaa.grave@mccsa.org.au
P25Interested in volunteering for MCCSA?
Visit www.mccsa.org.au for more info or contact us on 8345 5266.
www.mccsa.org.au
Multicultural Communities Council of SA Inc.
113 Gilbert Street, Adelaide Phone 8345 5266 www.mccsa.org.au
Compiled and edited by Sidique Bah, MCCSA Communications Officer
AUTUMN 2021 | P26You can also read
