Selliah Nalliah
Service to the Tamil and Hindu communities
Selliah Nalliah has been a cornerstone of the Tamil and Hindu communities in Victoria for several decades. Through sustained volunteerism, he has played a vital role in preserving cultural identity while supporting community wellbeing, particularly among older migrants.
Based in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs, Mr Nalliah has been closely involved with temples, cultural organisations and senior citizens’ groups. His leadership has helped maintain language, traditions and spiritual practices, ensuring they remain accessible to younger generations growing up in Australia.
A strong advocate for social connection and dignity in ageing, he has worked to reduce isolation among elderly community members. His quiet dedication and consistency have earned him deep respect across Victoria’s Tamil and Hindu networks.
Henry Brodaty AO
Global leadership in dementia research and mental health
Professor Henry Brodaty AO is internationally recognised as one of Australia’s foremost psychiatrists and dementia researchers. His career spans decades of clinical practice, academic leadership and policy influence in aged mental health.
As a leading authority on Alzheimer’s disease, Professor Brodaty has shaped national and global approaches to dementia care. His research has influenced clinical guidelines, caregiver support frameworks and public policy, improving quality of life for patients and families alike.
Beyond research, he has been deeply committed to mentoring future clinicians and researchers, ensuring long-term excellence in mental health care. His work continues to leave a lasting legacy in Australia’s health system.
Prof. Nagarajah
Contribution to higher education and academic leadership
Professor Nagarajah has made sustained contributions to Australian higher education through teaching, research and institutional leadership. Over a long academic career, he has mentored students from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
His work in curriculum development and academic governance has strengthened educational pathways for migrant and international students. He has been a strong advocate for inclusive learning environments that value diversity and critical thinking.
Respected for integrity and intellectual rigour, Professor Nagarajah’s influence continues to be felt through the students and academics he has guided.
Dipak Sanghvi
Community service and civic engagement
Dipak Sanghvi has been deeply involved in community organisations focused on social cohesion and cultural participation. Through voluntary leadership, he has supported initiatives that connect migrant families with services, education and cultural networks.
His contribution has helped new and established migrants navigate settlement challenges while maintaining strong community ties. Mr Sanghvi is widely respected for his reliability, humility and long-term commitment to service.
His work reflects the essential role of grassroots leadership in sustaining vibrant multicultural communities.
Palanichamy Thevar
Service to the Tamil and Indian communities
Palanichamy Thevar has dedicated decades to strengthening Tamil and Indian community life in Queensland. His leadership spans cultural associations, festival organisation and community support initiatives.
He has played a key role in preserving Tamil language and traditions while supporting the integration of migrants into Australian society. His work has helped create platforms for cultural expression and intergenerational connection.
Through steady leadership and collaboration, Mr Thevar has contributed significantly to Queensland’s multicultural landscape.
Tausif Khan
Multicultural leadership and advocacy
Tausif Khan is a prominent figure in Queensland’s multicultural ecosystem, known for bridging communities, business and government. He has held leadership roles across cultural organisations, trade bodies and ethnic media.
His work has strengthened Indian community representation and promoted cross-cultural understanding. Through advocacy and engagement, he has supported opportunities for migrant entrepreneurs and cultural organisations.
Mr Khan’s leadership reflects the growing influence of multicultural voices in public and civic life.
Kunwarjit Singh Sangla
Medicine and Sikh community welfare
Dr Kunwarjit Singh Sangla has combined professional excellence in medicine with longstanding service to the Sikh community. His work reflects the Sikh principle of seva, integrating healthcare with community wellbeing.
In addition to clinical practice, Dr Sangla has supported health awareness programs, charitable initiatives and community outreach. His efforts have improved access to care and promoted preventative health education.
He is widely respected for aligning professional skill with social responsibility.
Shyam Ratan Das
Three decades of community leadership
Shyam Ratan Das has served the Indian and broader multicultural communities in Queensland for over 30 years. His leadership spans cultural organisations, mental health advocacy, media and social welfare initiatives.
He has played a critical role in addressing issues such as social isolation, migrant wellbeing and mental health stigma. His ability to mobilise community support has made him a trusted and influential leader.
Mr Das’s work continues to strengthen community resilience and inclusion.
Prem Ramburuth
Service to multicultural and Mauritian communities
Prem Ramburuth has been an active representative of the Mauritian community while contributing to broader multicultural engagement in Australia. Through community organisations and advisory roles, he has promoted cultural understanding and social participation.
His work supports migrant settlement and fosters dialogue across communities. Mr Ramburuth’s leadership reflects Australia’s shared multicultural heritage.
Ravinder Anand
Community Empowerment, Mentorship and Social Development
Ravinder Anand has played a sustained and meaningful role in community development, with a strong focus on empowerment, mentorship and social inclusion. Over the years, he has worked closely with migrant families and individuals, helping them navigate the challenges of settlement, integration and participation in Australian society.
His contribution spans mentoring initiatives, community leadership roles and advocacy work aimed at improving access to education, employment and social services. Mr Anand has been particularly committed to supporting newcomers as they adapt to new systems, ensuring they are informed, confident and connected.
Through active involvement in community networks, he has helped strengthen social cohesion and encouraged civic participation. His work reflects a belief that empowered individuals create stronger communities, and his steady leadership has had a lasting impact on those he has supported.
Chinthaka Indunil Samaraweera Atukorala
Service to Sri Lankan and Multicultural Communities
Chinthaka Indunil Samaraweera Atukorala has been an active and respected contributor to Sri Lankan and broader multicultural communities in Australia. His work has focused on advocacy, cultural representation and fostering unity across diverse groups.
Through leadership roles and community engagement, he has supported initiatives that preserve Sri Lankan cultural heritage while promoting participation in Australia’s multicultural framework. He has worked to ensure that cultural identity and civic responsibility move hand in hand.
Mr Atukorala is also recognised for encouraging dialogue and collaboration between communities, helping to build mutual understanding and social harmony. His contribution reflects a commitment to inclusive citizenship and shared community values.
Mukund Narayana Murti
Cultural Leadership, Education and Mentorship
Mukund Narayana Murti has made sustained contributions to cultural, educational and community initiatives, with a strong emphasis on mentorship and lifelong learning. His involvement spans organisational leadership, cultural engagement and youth development.
He has supported programs that promote education, values-based leadership and community participation, particularly among younger generations. Through mentoring and guidance, he has helped individuals build confidence, skills and a sense of responsibility.
Widely respected for his calm leadership and integrity, Mr Murti’s work continues to nurture a culture of learning, respect and inclusivity within the community.
Dr Rondhir Jithoo
Excellence in Neurosurgery, Education and National Service
Dr Rondhir Jithoo is a highly respected neurosurgeon whose career reflects excellence in clinical practice, medical education and national service. Over decades, he has contributed significantly to Australia’s healthcare system through patient care, leadership and mentoring.
In addition to his work in public and private hospitals, Dr Jithoo has served with the Australian Defence Force, providing specialist surgical expertise and supporting medical readiness. His contribution to defence medicine highlights a commitment to service beyond the civilian sphere.
As an educator and mentor, he has trained and guided numerous medical professionals, influencing standards of neurosurgical practice across Australia. His legacy is defined by professionalism, discipline and dedication to public service.
Satwant Singh Calais
Sikh Youth Empowerment and Community Leadership
Satwant Singh Calais is a leading figure in Sikh youth development and community leadership in Australia. As a founding member of Sikh Youth Australia, he has played a central role in shaping programs that focus on education, leadership and social responsibility.
His work has empowered young Australians to remain connected to their cultural identity while engaging positively with wider society. Through structured programs, mentoring and community service initiatives, he has encouraged youth participation and civic engagement.
Mr Calais is widely respected for fostering confidence, discipline and purpose among young people, helping them become responsible leaders within both their communities and Australian society.
Bharat Nepal
Mental Health Advocacy and Nepali Community Support
Bharat Nepal has been a strong advocate for the Nepali community in Australia, with a particular focus on mental health awareness and community wellbeing. His work addresses stigma, access to support services and emotional resilience among migrants.
Through education campaigns and community engagement, he has helped normalise conversations around mental health, encouraging individuals to seek help and support. His advocacy has been especially impactful for newly arrived migrants facing isolation and adjustment challenges.
Mr Nepal’s contribution reflects compassion and leadership, strengthening community resilience and promoting healthier, more connected lives.
Dr Ravin Sadhai
Medicine, Health Education and Community Trust
Dr Ravin Sadhai has built a respected medical career while remaining deeply committed to community health and education. His work emphasises preventative care, health literacy and equitable access to medical services.
Beyond clinical practice, Dr Sadhai has supported outreach programs and health awareness initiatives aimed at migrant and underserved communities. His efforts help bridge cultural gaps in healthcare delivery and improve patient understanding and trust.
Known for professionalism and empathy, he continues to strengthen relationships between healthcare systems and multicultural communities, contributing to better long-term health outcomes.
Farah Madon
Advocacy, Inclusion and Community Engagement
Farah Madon is a respected advocate for social inclusion, equity and community participation. Her leadership has focused on amplifying diverse voices and supporting initiatives that promote fairness and representation.
Through sustained involvement in community organisations and advocacy platforms, she has worked to address barriers faced by women, migrants and marginalised groups. Her approach combines empathy with action, fostering dialogue and collaboration.
Ms Madon’s contribution continues to empower individuals and strengthen community connections, reinforcing the importance of inclusive leadership in a multicultural society.
Nedd Brockmann
Youth Advocacy, Social Justice and National Impact
Nedd Brockmann has emerged as one of Australia’s most influential youth advocates, recognised for transforming grassroots action into national impact. His work has focused on raising awareness around homelessness, housing insecurity and social justice.
Through extraordinary endurance challenges, he has mobilised widespread public support and raised significant funds for homelessness services. Beyond fundraising, he has consistently used his platform to advocate for long-term, systemic solutions.
Mr Brockmann’s leadership has inspired a generation of young Australians to engage in civic life, demonstrating how determination and purpose can drive meaningful social change.
A Continuing Commitment to Service
From grassroots community work to national advocacy, these individuals embody leadership grounded in service. Their contributions strengthen Australia’s multicultural fabric and serve as powerful examples of how dedication, integrity and compassion can create lasting impact.
