Multicultural women drive change at innovative conference

To be held at the Parkroyal Parramatta from November 3–4, the National Multicultural Women’s Conference 2016 – Influencing Change: Vision and Impact (NMWC) will create a platform for sharing knowledge and celebrating the outstanding contributions women from diverse backgrounds make to Australian society.

SSI CEO Violet Roumeliotis said the conference would facilitate a lively and productive dialogue about the unique lived experiences of women from diverse backgrounds, with the aim of influencing a shift in how women are recognised and supported in Australia.

“Women from diverse backgrounds contribute so much vitality, talent and enthusiasm to our communities,” Ms Roumeliotis said. “They are nurturing mothers, inspirational leaders and talented entrepreneurs, and yet the challenges and opportunities they face are often different than their male counterparts.

“The National Multicultural Women’s Conference will provide a unique platform to share perspectives, innovations and approaches affecting women, and drive further collaboration and change across sectors.”

The program of speakers will include NSW Treasurer Gladys Berejiklian, Royal Australian Navy Strategic Adviser on Islamic Cultural Affairs Captain Mona Shindy, and Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins.

In a mix of panel discussions and presentations, speakers will cover topics including changing expectations around race, identity and belonging; reframing the narrative when it comes to gender, equality and culture; and making an impact through culturally competent practice and service provision.

Registrations are now open for the inaugural event, which is the outcome of a partnership between SSI and the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA), with support from Ethnic Communities’ Council of NSW.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available for organisations that work with or support cultural diversity and immigrant and refugee women. A range of sponsorship packages have been developed to ensure a successful outcome for sponsors and stakeholders. Click here for more information.