Windermere CEO Cheryl De Zilwa accepts an award for excellence from Premier John Brumby at Government House.By Lilly O’Gorman
WINDERMERE Child and Family Services received an award from the Victorian Multicultural Commission for its work with migrants and refugees during a ceremony at Government House.
Premier John Brumby presented Windermere CEO Cheryl De Zilwa with the Award for Excellence in Service Delivery to Multicultural Victoria.
Over the last three years, Windermere has developed a network across the whole southern region of Melbourne that is focussed on Child and Family Services working more effectively with migrants and refugees.
The network helps people coming from war zones overseas who have endured years of extreme trauma, with families that have grown up in refugee camps.
It also helps those facing significant cultural adjustments and family hardships, who don’t know how to access help.
Serap Ozdemir, Windermere’s Manager Special Projects, said as a result of Windermere’s work, a number of groups had formed within these communities.
“Some activities that have emerged include men’s groups looking at the role of men in the family within an Australian context, parenting groups, social enterprises that raise funds and help the community, financial counselling and others,” he said.
Ms De Zilwa was pleased Windermere had been recognised for improving outcomes for migrants and refugees.
“I’m incredibly proud of Windermere and our achievements in working with diverse communities,” Ms De Zilwa said.
