Belonging South West Forum - Fostering a More Welcoming and Inclusive Region

About the Forum:

Belonging South West aims to spark conversations and inspire actions that make South West Victoria a more welcoming and inclusive place.

Our ultimate goal is to strengthen inclusion so that multicultural communities feel they truly belong, are seen, supported, and valued across the region.

This forum will provide a crucial space for connection, understanding, and actionable outcomes, addressing the current gaps in comprehensive support systems for our growing Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) population.

Belonging South West is an initiative developed by participants of the Leadership Great South Coast (LGSC) 2025 Community Leadership Program.

Who Should Attend?

We invite a "whole-of-community" approach to build stronger connections and collective commitment. This forum is specifically designed for:

• Multicultural community members and leaders

• Local service providers (health, employment, recreation, settlement, mental health, community groups, sporting clubs, education, and more)

• Major employers of migrant workers

• Regional government representatives and policymakers

What to Expect:

The forum will feature a dynamic program, including:

Opening Remarks by Dr. Judy Tang

Judy is a Victorian Multicultural Commissioner, clinical neuropsychologist, and community leader with over two decades of experience in health, multicultural affairs, and advocacy. A strong voice for equity and inclusion, she has championed initiatives that break down barriers for culturally and linguistically diverse communities, while promoting mental health awareness and social cohesion. Dr. Tang has served on multiple boards and advisory groups, contributing her expertise to policy and practice across government and community sectors. At the Belonging South West Forum, she will deliver opening remarks to inspire dialogue, collaboration, and action toward a more welcoming South West Victoria.

Keynote Presentation - Tasneem Chopra OAM

A Cross-cultural Consultant, Tasneem addresses issues of equity and belonging through an intersectional lens in leadership of government, corporate, arts, academic and NGO sectors, within Australia and overseas.

As a commentator her expertise has been sought on topics related to leadership, cultural inclusion, gender justice, intersectionality, migration, social cohesion and social justice.

For her efforts she was appointed inaugural Ambassador for Women of Colour, Australia, is a former Anti-Racism Champion with the Australian Human Rights Commission and awarded an Order of Australia Medal.

Tasneem’s governance roles have included: Strategic Advisor to the Victorian Public Service Commission, Fire Rescue Victoria, Ambulance Victoria and ACMI Museum. 

She is also an Adjunct Fellow at Victoria University, TEDx Melbourne presenter and published writer. 

Tasneem has featured on numerous platforms including BBC, SBS, ABC’s Q&A and The Drum.  She co-hosts the podcast Colour Outside the Lines with Leah Vandenberg, and has previously hosted Strengths Untold.

Case Study - Ethnic Council of Shepparton & District

Join Sam Atukorala, CEO of the Ethnic Council of Shepparton & District, as he shares insights into impactful programs supporting multicultural communities in regional Victoria. A former international student from Sri Lanka, Sam has become a leading voice for inclusion and social cohesion. Recognised as Greater Shepparton Citizen of the Year and a member of the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll, Sam brings lived experience and deep community knowledge to his work.

Panel Discussions: Engage with diverse panelists representing various sectors and backgrounds, delving in to "What works" and strategies to support multicultural belonging in a regional setting.

Cultural Performance: Rooh Dance
‘Rooh,’ meaning soul, unites India’s rich cultural tapestry through semi-classical and folk dance. With roots in Kerala and music spanning Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Sanskrit, Rooh showcases the beauty of unity in diversity - bringing the heartbeat of India to life on stage.

Interactive Roundtable Workshops: Participate in structured discussions designed to generate tangible ideas and actionable initiatives. Tables will be thoughtfully arranged to encourage diverse conversations among CALD community members, service providers, employers, and local leaders. Discussions will focus on identifying needs, available resources, existing gaps, individual support actions, and partnership opportunities.

MC

Daisy Ye: participant - Community Leadership Program; Co-Founder & President Warrnambool Multicultural Association

Multicultural morning tea and lunch supplied.

Register now to be part of this vital conversation and contribute to building a more inclusive South West Victoria!

We want this event to be accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, or if you require any further information, please contact info@lgsc.com.au