The Community Refugee Settlement Australia (CRSA) awards night and gathering took place in June during Refugee Week, and our region made a massive impact.
Two of our hard-working refugee supporters were recognised:
- Outstanding Team Spirit Award: Won by Linda Munro from Ballina Refugee Resettlement and Welcome Network (BRRAWN). This award celebrates a coordinator who consistently uplifts and energises their group.
- Special Mention: Sue Milne from our newest group, Northern Rivers Work + Welcome, was formally acknowledged for her impressive efforts in resettling an Afghan couple.
A large contingent from the Northern Rivers attended, including members of refugee families, who gave impressive speeches to the gathering. Among those who attended were Walaa Allaham and Ousama Bloudani with their daughter Sana; Juan Carlos Guerrero, with his wife Gaby Medrano and stepson Jean Karell.
The gathering was packed with opportunities to swap ideas and connect with other volunteers, refugees and staff.
Key highlights included:
- Shared insights: panel discussions featured members of our new families, who generously shared their journeys to help guide future arrivals.
- Resource Toolkit: NRFR Vice President Isabelle Borelli led a workshop introducing a new toolkit. This will be an invaluable resource to help groups coordinate their support networks and resources effectively.
Pictured:
Top: Sana Bloudani addresses the CRSA gathering while her parents, Walaa and Ousama, look on.
Below: Linda Munro.
