Congratulations to Annisa Li Zhang (张俪), Wesa Wai-Sum Chau (邹慧心), and Jijun (Jack) Yang (杨际军) on their well-deserved induction into the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll! This prestigious recognition honours their outstanding contributions to multiculturalism in Victoria.
The induction ceremony, held on 4 December 2024, at the iconic Government House, was hosted by Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria. The event was also attended by Premier Jacinta Allan, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt, and VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen.
This achievement is a testament to their dedication and hard work in promoting diversity and inclusion in Victorian communities.
Ref:
- https://www.multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au/multicultural-awards-for-excellence
- https://www.multiculturalcommission.vic.gov.au/victorian-multicultural-honour-roll-inductees
Annisa Li Zhang:
Annisa Li Zhang is a dedicated advocate for multiculturalism in Victoria, making significant contributions through her leadership roles, community work, and writings. She authored and published a groundbreaking 350-page book, In the Town Hall, which chronicles her experiences as a local candidate during the tumultuous period of the COVID-19 pandemic and her resilience in the face of racial online attacks. Establishing the Asian Leadership Program, Asian-Australians are empowered with the essential knowledge, skills, networks, and confidence to assume leadership positions in politics.
Annisa has been a tireless advocate for multicultural communities, championing various initiatives, particularly in the arts and festivals. A standout achievement is her successful proposal and implementation of Glen Eira’s first official Lunar New Year celebration in 2022. She also played a key role in establishing Glen Eira’s first Multicultural Advisory Committee, serving as its co-chair. She has demonstrated her commitment to community engagement and social cohesion by organising teams to participate in the AFL Unity Cup program.
Wesa Wai-Sum Chau:
Wesa Chau is one of Australia’s most influential voices and foremost thought leaders on multiculturalism and cultural diversity. She is currently the Managing Director of Multicultural Leadership Initiative, a national non-profit organisation that aims to uplift the voices of culturally and linguistically diverse people to shape solutions address climate change.
Wesa has been recognised through numerous awards such as the 40 Under 40 Most Influential Asian-Australian Awards in 2020 as the category winner in education, an Australian Leadership Award in 2013, the Young Victorian of the Year Award in 2010, and was an inductee to the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2012.
Jijun (Jack) Yang:
Born in Longxi County, China, Jijun (Jack) Yang immigrated to Ballarat and has established himself as a vital community member volunteering his time offering free tai chi classes in the beautiful surrounds of Lake Wendouree. His outgoing personality, communication skills and sense of energetic improvement has attracted a diverse group of followers to attend his classes from primary school children to senior residents.
Jack also teaches at the English Corner Group encouraging cultural exchange through song and performance whilst migrants learn English. He demonstrates and teaches tai chi for the Ageing Well program of Ballarat City Council and at local events and community clubs in the area. He supports Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council’s multicultural events as well as local associations promoting Chinese culture and practice at aged care facilities, schools and sports groups.
