This webinar presents a case study of an ongoing partnership between academics from the University of Technology Sydney Business School and the Somali Welfare & Culture Association (SWCA). Established in 2001, SWCA is a volunteer-run organization that offers various services to culturally diverse communities in Western Sydney, including the annual Africultures Festival, which promotes cultural understanding and strengthens connections between African and wider communities.

The presentation will explore the history and evolution of this partnership, emphasizing the key factors that have contributed to its growth and success. It will also address the challenges faced along the way and the strategies used to overcome them, highlighting the impact of the partnership on both community outcomes and academic research. Reflecting on the lessons learned, the presenters will share insights into the complexities and opportunities of university-community partnerships, underscoring the importance of transparency, shared decision-making, and cultural understanding in fostering effective partnerships.

Presenters:

Dr Najmeh Hassanli, Senior Lecturer UTS Business School
Dr Pavlina Jasovska, Senior Lecturer UTS Business School
Adama Kamara, Committee Member Somali Welfare and Cultural Associates and Africultures Festival

This session is run as part of the Carnegie Community Engagement Network offerings.

*Please note that this session is free.

Contact us:

If you have any questions about the session or the Carnegie Community Engagement Network, please contact carnegie@engagementaustralia.org.au

Contact the host of Forging stronger bonds: Exploring the dynamics of a university-community partnership