Latest News

GCCMAS Visited Our Office

We were excited to welcome Deb-B Seven and Rofina from Gold Coast Community Malaysian and Singaporean (GCCMAS) to our Southport office yesterday. They visited us to learn more about our services and explore opportunities for future collaboration. They had a productive meeting with our Community Development team. They also brought tasty traditional food, representing their rich culture, and shared it with our staff. GCCMAS is a group for Malaysians, Singaporeans, and their family members to connect and organise events through community and cultural activities, sharing experiences and knowledge, and providing mutual support. Future collaborations with groups like GCCMAS are essential, as these partnerships help us learn from each other, share resources, and build stronger and self-sustainable community organisations.

Life Skills Training SETS and HSP Clients

This week, we hosted a two-day Life Skills training for our SETS and HSP clients. These workshops are designed to help newly arrived clients navigate the Australian system, including housing, public transport, employment, and Australian law, among other important topics. Our goal is to support clients on their settlement journey by providing essential information and guidance. We understand that language barriers can be overwhelming for newly arrived refugees, so our Language Support Workers were available to assist with language and cultural challenges, ensuring everyone was engaged in a safe and supportive environment. These skills empower them to make informed decisions and overcome life challenges they may face. Thank you to our Settlement team for leading such an important initiative.

End of the Year Celebration English Social Group

Yesterday we hosted our End of the Year Celebration with our students from the English Social Group in Palm Beach. They expressed their gratitude in English and added a special touch by including a word in their languages, Portuguese, German, Spanish, and Arabic. We are incredibly proud of them and are deeply grateful for the love and appreciation they show us. This video captures the essence of our multicultural and vibrant community. Look at this beautiful video. Join us next year!

Gold Coast Volunteer Awards

Kyzzy and Marcela from our Employment and Training team were honoured to represent our organisation at the Gold Coast Volunteer Awards. That night was a great opportunity to network and meet partners such as Ms Angie Bell MP, Brad Cooper, CEO of Volunteering Gold Coast, Ben Naday, Chair of Volunteering Gold Coast and Policy and Migration Professional at Resolve Migration, Paul Coughlan, National Strategic Partnerships Executive at EXIMM, and our Board Director, Mirela Mailin. The Gold Coast Volunteer Awards aim to honour and acknowledge the efforts of organisations and individuals in the community who selflessly dedicate their time and resources to creating a positive social impact.

Final Embroidery Circle for 2024

Last week, the Palestinian community proudly hosted its final embroidery circle for 2024, wrapping up months of connection, culture, and creativity. Held fortnightly in our Southport office, the embroidery circles aim to provide a safe, welcoming space where community can gather, connect, and immerse themselves in the rich tradition of Palestinian tatreez (embroidery). These circles are open to women from all backgrounds, encouraging cross-cultural connections while sharing the art and history of tatreez. Participants not only learn the intricate stitching techniques but also enjoy the warmth of Palestinian hospitality, including traditional cuisine and music. Over the months, the circles have grown in popularity, with more women joining to share stories, build friendships, and celebrate cultural heritage. The final gathering of the year took place last Wednesday, marking a moment of reflection and gratitude. The group expressed heartfelt thanks to Victoria and Brooke, whose dedication and passion have been instrumental in running the circles. They also acknowledged our invaluable support, which has made these gatherings possible. Through these embroidery circles, women have found a nurturing environment to celebrate their creativity, form meaningful connections, and experience the beauty of Palestinian culture.

MCCGC All-Staff Potluck

We travelled around the world in every bit yesterday with delicious food at our All-Staff Potluck. The energy was incredible, and our team brought in amazing multicultural dishes that told a story of their heritage, most of which they made themselves. Our potluck was a celebration of the diverse cultures that make our team so special and diverse. Every bite was a story, and every flavour was a unique piece of our heritage.

Justice of the Peace at Our Office

Our amazing Care Finder Navigator Kim has achieved a significant milestone by becoming a Justice of the Peace (JP) and was officially sworn in on Friday at the Southport Courthouse. As a JP, Kym will have the authority to perform various minor legal tasks, such as witnessing documents and certifying copies. This role is essential in ensuring that legal processes are accessible and fair for everyone in the community. Kym is excited to serve her local community in her JP role, and we know that she will bring her kindness, empathy, and support to many people. Congratulations Kym, your commitment to helping others is inspiring. We are so proud of you.

2024 Break the Patterns Conference

It was a very insightful day on Thursday last week during the 2024 Break the Patterns Conference hosted by the Multicultural Families Organisation Inc.-SARA Program and the Domestic Violence Prevention Centre. We were honoured to be part of the planning committee and support the organisation of this important event. The discussions focused on improving community safety, systemic responses, and raising awareness of the intersectional barriers faced by women, children and families from CALD backgrounds experiencing domestic and family violence. As service providers, it is crucial for us to engage, stay updated, and learn how we can better support the multicultural community. Participating in events like this helps us improve our services and ensure we are meeting the needs of those affected by domestic violence.

Staff Family Picnic

Our staff became kids again, playing and laughing with the little ones at our Family Picnic on Saturday. It was a shiny morning, where kids and adults came together. The fun and laughter were contagious. It was an amazing day for everyone. We are deeply grateful to our staff for sharing their families with us. They met new friends, connected, and celebrated our different cultures. We also brought multicultural yummy food to share. Let’s value these beautiful moments and look forward to more days like this.

Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs and International Student Attraction Visited our Office

We had the pleasure of welcoming Hermann Vorster, Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs and International Student Attraction, in our Southport office. As a multicultural organisation, it's crucial for us to advocate for our communities. Meetings like this are essential for discussing the needs and challenges faced by the communities and exploring ways to improve support together with the government. Hermann highlighted our work supporting communities and emphasised that more efforts are needed. The government is keen to support these initiatives, and we are excited about future collaborations. Inviting government representatives helps build stronger relationships and ensures multicultural community voices are heard at the policy-making level.

Carer Information Session

If you are a carer, we want you to come, connect with other carers, and join an information session with Carer Gateway during our afternoon tea on Thursday, the 12th of December. This will be an amazing opportunity for you to learn about the support available to you, including counselling, peer support, coaching, tailored support packages, and respite. Many people don't see themselves as carers. They don't realise the support they provide is caring. They just think they are a mother, father, sister, or even a son or friend. But anyone, regardless of age, can be a carer at any time in their life. Carer Gateway is a national support service funded by the Australian Government. It provides free, local services and support to carers. Date: Thursday, 12th of December Time: 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM Location: CURA Wellness Centre, 1 Dominions Road, Ashmore If you want to learn more about Carer Gateway, click here.

Twilight Multicultural Mixer 2024

And one more time, we say thank you to all the community leaders, organisations, and government who attended our Twilight Multicultural Mixer yesterday. It was amazing to see so many people connecting and having fun, but most importantly, spreading positive vibes across all communities. We were honoured to have Aunty Linda from Yugambeh Region Aboriginal Corporation Alliance (YRACA) with us. Her beautiful Welcome to Country set the perfect tone for the evening. The event was also a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge the incredible work of our volunteers. Your dedication and time make a huge difference. A big thank you to Rush, our Language Support Worker who exemplifies what we can achieve when we come together to support the community. Finally, a massive thank you to our team for organising this magnificent event. Your passion and commitment are truly inspiring. Let’s keep the energy going and continue to support and uplift our communities. Check the image gallery here.

Cert III in Individual Support

Thinking about upskilling or considering a career change? Are you looking for flexible working hours? Cert III in Individual Support is a great choice for you. You will get a double qualification with Aged Care and Disability Support. This supportive training is FREE for eligible participants and offers a discount for non-eligible participants. Next intake: February 2025 Enquiry now at opportunities@mccgc.org.au Find out more information, click here

MEP End of the Year Student Celebration

Thank you to TAFE for inviting us to their AMEP End of the Year Student Celebration. The AMEP course helps migrants practice reading, writing, and speaking English. Ping from our Community Development team had a wonderful time supporting graduating students with fellow service providers.

Digital Sisters Workshop

Settlement clients learned useful digital skills in our Digital Sisters workshop last Friday. We introduced the Be Connected Digital Sisters project and the eSafety website, which educates people about online safety risks. Participants also learned how to navigate Google Maps, avoid scams and other essential digital skills for daily life. We will continue to host our Digital Sisters workshops monthly in 2025. Please book your spot with Ping at 04203 99915 or pingb@mccgc.org.au Good Things Foundation Australia.

Christmas Terrarium Workshop Womens Group

Our participants enjoyed a relaxed and creative morning at the Christmas Terrarium workshop organised by our Community Pathway Connector team during the Women's Social Group last Friday. They meditated on gratitude and built beautiful terrariums with special Christmas decorations. Here is some of the feedback: “I enjoyed the activity so much. It was appropriate for this time because it was almost Christmas. It promoted creativity. The facilitator was so nice and helpful.” “I enjoyed the meditation and workshop. I like the multicultural activities and social aspect of the gathering”. “ Thank you for the workshop. It is so fantastic and great for everyone. So lovely to be here today”. Thank you to all the lovely women who participated. We look forward to seeing you at the next workshop last Friday of February 2025.

Masquerade Ball Filipino-Australian Community of Gold Coast

Thank you to the Filipino-Australian Community of Gold Coast Inc. Fil-Aust GC 2010 for the invitation to join their Masquerade Ball. Ping from our Community Development team had a fantastic time connecting with the Filipino community and also sharing our services. It was a wonderful evening celebrating Filipino culture and a great chance to network.

Clients Shared With Us Iranian Dish

What a beautiful gesture! Azimeh, one of our lovely Community Pathway Connectors clients, brought our staff a delicious traditional Iranian dish to enjoy at lunchtime called Polo Adas with Keshmesh, which means rice and lentils with sultana. These food combinations were the proper diet of Tibet people for generations. “Rice is a carbohydrate, lentils are a good source of protein, and sultanas are a sweetness that brings the being to balance,” she explained. We had a beautiful time with her. She shared her gratitude by saying she wanted to give back to our staff and show her love for the amazing support she receives from our team. Thank you to Azimeh for your generosity.

Care Finder Team Members Received Awards Seniors

We are immensely proud of Amanda and Ping from our Care Finder team, who received two awards at the Gold Coast Seniors Round Table Network Award Ceremony. These awards recognise their incredible contributions to the Aged Care sector on the Gold Coast and their passion for supporting the community. Congratulations to Amanda and Ping on this well-deserved recognition.

Grant Writing Information Session

Thank you to the City of Gold Coast for inviting us to their Grant Writing Information Session. Our Community Development team had an excellent experience learning about new grant sources and improving their grant writing skills. The session was led by the Project Officer Lyndsay Mandaru. These workshops are very important for our teams as they gain new skills, which increases the chances of securing funding for our community projects and supporting community groups in applying for their own grants.

First Celebration of Culture at Coombabah State High School

Our Community Development team attended the first celebration of culture at Coombabah State High School, organised by us and our friends at Multicultural Families Organisation. It was a great day to connect with and celebrate our different cultures with staff and students. We played some games with students to encourage them to understand the cultural diversity we have on the Gold Coast. Bringing this celebration to the school was fantastic. Let's keep embracing our different cultures together!

Griffith Students Visited our Southport Office

Griffith students visited our Southport office to learn more about our services. These visits are integral to their placement routine, allowing them to familiarise themselves with organisations that support communities. They chose to visit us to understand better what we do. Our lovely Isabela from the Community Development team introduced them to our different programs, and we already have some interest in becoming volunteers. These visits are a great way for students to understand the impact of community organisations and see our work to support them. It's always inspiring to see the enthusiasm of the next generation of changemakers. If you want to become a volunteer with us, please click here

Digital Sisters Workshop

Join our Digital Sisters workshop, a safe space for women to connect with each other and learn useful digital skills for their everyday life. You will gain skills in Navigating Google Maps Avoiding scams Plus, enjoy a delicious afternoon tea while you learn and connect with other women. Date: Friday, 29th of November Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Location: Annex Room, MCCGC Southport Office Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity! Register with Ping at 0420399915 or pingb@mccgc.org.au This program is funded by Good Things Foundation Australia.

Coffee, English & Friends Picnic Outing

Here are some highlights of our picnic outing with our Palm Beach “Coffee, English & Friends” students. They enjoyed an outdoor English class at the beautiful Botanical Garden while sharing delicious food from different countries. Everyone had a great time learning and connecting in a fun and relaxed environment. They said that these outings help them learn better and connect with others. A relaxed mind is the best way to learn.

Pass the Torch 2024

We proudly sponsored and supported Pass the Torch 2024 during the weekend, a powerful relay run/walk event symbolising the collective fight against domestic violence. Our team had a fantastic time engaging with participants, providing information about our services, and ensuring everyone was hydrated throughout the relay. In 2023, Queensland experienced a 21.6% increase in domestic violence orders, highlighting the urgent need for support systems and legal protections for survivors. That’s why initiatives like this one are very important to bring the community together and show solidarity and support for those affected by domestic violence. Thank you to the Jireh Impact Foundation and Birch Foundation for the invitation to join this incredible event.

Diwali Celebration 2024

Our MCCGC and @cura_cares staff, as well as volunteers, had the best time yesterday celebrating Diwali with the Indian Community Of Gold Coast team at our Southport office. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a beautiful celebration embraced by many cultures, symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It’s a time to come together, celebrate, and spread joy. Thank you to the Indian Communities Gold Coast for joining us for the second year and making this Diwali celebration unforgettable. We enjoyed connecting, dancing, and learning about Diwali’s cultural significance.

Fair Trading Workshop For Community Groups

Community groups were very engaged and keen to learn how to become incorporated at our Fair Trading workshop. It was more than just a workshop, it was a welcoming space where they could ask questions and get advice from experts. We had Natasha Schuba from Harm Prevention and Regulation, Department of Justice and Attorney-General Justice QLD, as well as Savita Gurung, Multicultural Officer, and Lyndsay Mandaru, Project Officer from the City of Gold Coast. Natasha's session was full of practical tips as she guided her presentation with the questions community groups asked, providing an excellent opportunity for them to discuss their current situation. They covered everything from tax deductions on donations to financial support, applying for grants, electing board members, the minimum number of people required to set up a charity and specific tools that the Department of Justice recommends to maintain long-term legal compliance for incorporated groups. The City of Gold Coast team then discussed grant writing and volunteer materials for incorporated groups. Workshops like these are crucial for community groups to understand the process of becoming incorporated. It helps them manage their operations better, access more resources, and ensure they stay compliant with legal requirements. Plus, all our workshops are free! Thank you to the Community Development team for organising such an important workshop.

Community Consultation Translated Safer Gambling Practice Materials

In collaboration with Star Casino, we hosted a community consultation to review translated safer gambling practice materials. Thank you to community members who took the time to review seven key languages, share their valuable insights into the effectiveness of the materials, and share any follow-up recommendations. If you need some support, please contact the Relationships Australia Gambling Helpline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 1800 858 858.

Learning Your Career Strengths Workshop

We had an amazing time at our Learning Your Career Strengths workshop organised by the Employment and Training team last week. Participants explored their strengths to shape their professional journeys and learned practical strategies to align their career choices with their talents and interests. By understanding their strengths, participants can make more informed career decisions, leading to greater job satisfaction and success. We are proud to support our community in their journey towards career progression. Stay tuned for more workshops to grow and find your dream job!

Care Finder Attended Seniors Expo

Our Care Finder team had an amazing time connecting with community members and service providers at the Seniors Expo organised by Gold Coast 60 and Better, ADA Australia, and Palm Beach Share and Care. Attendees enjoyed engaging conversations with service providers, beautiful cultural performances, and a delicious morning tea and lunch. These events give us a great opportunity to connect with the community, learn about their needs, and provide important information about our services. This helps us build stronger relationships with the people we support.

Play Matters Event

Our lovely Ellie from the Community Development team and Monica from the Community Pathway Connector program joined a Play Matters event where families gather to have fun and play. They aim to provide children with the best start to life by empowering parents and carers with the skills and confidence to guide and support their children's development through the fundamental act of play. Play truly matters in developing resilient children and families and ensuring health and wellbeing for their whole lives. Play is how children learn and grow and is a key element of early childhood development. It provides a foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.

Let’s Dance and Connect Workshop

We had a great session on Friday at our “Let’s Dance and Connect” workshop as part of our Women Social Group and led by our Care Finder Navigator, Lisa. Our amazing participants had the best time relaxing and learning an easy dance designed to connect and energise their bodies and minds. Here is some beautiful feedback we got from our participants: “A great gathering. The lunch and inclusion were very much appreciated. Well done." “The ladies are lovely, and the classes are always interesting." "Loved the dance lessons. Had a good workout. I would love another of these workshops".

City of Gold Coast Seniors Morning Tea

Our lovely Amanda and Ping from the Care Finder team were delighted to participate in the City of Gold Coast Seniors Morning Tea event as part of Seniors Month. Seniors had fun participating in Tai Chi, dancing, and Cycling Without Age RickShaw rides. They also got close to Parrots For Purpose and had lively conversations and laughs over a cuppa and muffins. It was amazing to see the community coming together and celebrating our seniors. Thanks to the City of Gold Coast for such a wonderful invitation.

Fair Trading Workshop

Join our Fair Trading workshop to learn about incorporating groups! Run by Natasha Schuba from Harm Prevention and Regulation, Department of Justice and Attorney-General, this workshop will cover: Register a charity Managing donations Legal obligations of incorporated groups Current regulatory changes Date: Tuesday, 5th NovTime: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PMLocation: MCCGC Southport – Level 1, 60 High Street Register here https://shorturl.at/H9aXX

FECCA Highlights From Our CEO, Shane Klintworth

As you may know, the FECCA 2024 conference was held in Brisbane last week and was co-hosted by our friends at ECCQ. We were fortunate to have been represented by our team members across almost 60 sessions. Topics ranged from racism in schools and domestic and family violence prevention to community development and the settlement journey through our Humanitarian programs. One of the highlights was the address provided by Her Excellency Imelde Sabushimike, Republic of Burundi, Minister for National Solidarity, Social Affairs, Human Rights, and Gender. In her address, Minister Sabushimike shared her inspiring journey, which is an example of community empowerment in practice. Despite the high level of poverty and instability in her family, she was the first Twa woman to complete a bachelor’s degree and the first Twa woman to be appointed as a government minister. Minister Sabushimike and her colleagues have helped improve the quality of life for the Batwa people in Burundi by distributing land, livestock, hoes, and seeds to boost food production within their community, progressively becoming self-reliant. Most remarkably, Minister Sabushimike has been promoting the formal education of Batwa children through the distribution of academic materials and school uniforms in collaboration with UNIPROBA. She believes education is the key to development – without it, job prospects are scarce. Minister Sabushimike has also recently built a school called ECOFO Girimbabazi Tujane for Batwa and other vulnerable children through the Girimbabazi Foundation (Girimbabazi translates as ‘have empathy’), which she initiated herself. The program was a celebration of a wonderfully diverse Australia. We were treated to presentations from community, organisation, and corporations from across the country. The government was well represented with no fewer than seven members of parliament from federal, state, and local governments. We were also fortunate to receive an address from Australia's newly appointed Governor-General, Ms Samantha Mostyn.

Reconciliation Action Plan Launch

Our Head of Business and Stakeholder Development, Emily and Settlement Case Manager, Suheir, attended the official launch of the Multicultural Australia Reconciliation Action Plan yesterday. Their journey toward this milestone has been one of learning, collaboration, and engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and community members, as well as with community leaders and members of the culturally and linguistically diverse communities in which they work. Our team was honoured to meet their RAP artwork artist, Aunty Peggy Tidyman, and have discussions with Aunty Robin Williams.

Indonesian Consul-General Visited Our Office

We had an amazing weekend at our Southport office with the Consul-General of Indonesia, Vedi Kurnia Buana. The Kusuma Indonesia Community Australia (KICA) organised a fantastic community service event, during which a consular team helped over 200 Indonesians with their passport needs and solved their consular matters, saving them trips to Sydney, Melbourne, or Canberra. During the two days, they also gathered to share amazing food, enjoy performances, and play traditional instruments. Thank you to our Community Development team for making this important initiative possible for the Indonesian community.

FECCA Conference 2024

Over two days, our MCCGC and CURA teams joined organisations and community members at the Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia - FECCA Conference 2024 to discuss and reflect on government policies, service delivery, and future challenges and opportunities for multicultural communities. This year's conference was centred around "Our Experiences. Our Future", which highlighted the strengths and challenges faced by culturally and linguistically diverse communities across Australia. Shane, Emily, Jess and Candice were part of the Organising Committee, our team participated with a stall during the event, and our Head of Business and Stakeholder Development, Emily, led the “Breaking the Walls, Opening the Doors” panel where speakers like Eman Mourad, from Cultural Perspectives, Susan Forde, Griffith University, Dr. Mohita Roman and Diana Mastrantuono, SSI and TRPP Project, and Despina Amanatidou and Tea Dietterich, 2M Language Services presented their findings on the importance of effective communication, community engagement, and the value of lived experiences in improving services and fostering a sense of belonging. Our team enjoyed attending conferences, panels and networking with other organisations, community leaders and members, policymakers, and advocates to discuss and reflect on their experiences with multicultural communities and ways to build a better future together. FECCA Reflections Our CEO, Shane, highlighted the powerful address by Her Excellency Imelde Sabushimike, Minister for National Solidarity, Social Affairs, Human Rights, and Gender of Burundi. Minister Sabushimike shared her journey of community empowerment, improving the lives of the Batwa people by distributing land, livestock, and seeds, and building a school for vulnerable children through the Girimbabazi Foundation. On the other hand, our COO, Jess, also expressed, “This was an excellent opportunity to support our State and National peak bodies in highlighting the importance of multiculturalism being embedded into our whole of government strategies. It was a motivation and excitement to engage both from an organisational perspective, as well as supporting our communities to engage in the National Anti-racism strategy, launching on the 26th of November and our continued efforts in listening, learning and further engaging in how to stand in allyship with our First Nations communities.” Participating in this event reinforced our commitment to advocating for our multicultural communities and the importance of collaboration, community engagement, and the impact of shared experiences in driving positive change.

Schoolwork Support Initiative

To continue supporting our community and families in their efforts to succeed and have a better future, we offer free tutoring to kids who need extra help with their schoolwork and for those who face challenges in their learning journey. Schools can't always provide all the help students need, so our MCCGC Volunteer program fills the gap. Families can come to us for the extra support their children need. Our wonderful volunteer, Marlyz, is working with one of our students to improve his reading and writing skills. She is a teacher and is trained to support students who struggle in school. One of our students' moms shared, "This program is so important for improving my son's writing and reading skills. It gives him better opportunities for the future. He enjoys the sessions and has improved a lot. I encourage other parents to engage with MCCGC and seek help for their kids." By offering this support, we aim to create a better future for our children and ensure they have the skills and confidence to succeed. We are very proud of our volunteer Marlyz for her passion for supporting our multicultural community. Well done!

Queensland Multicultural Seniors Month Celebration 2024

Seniors had an incredible time celebrating Queensland Multicultural Seniors Month and Get Online Week last Friday under our Multicultural Seniors Program. They learned important digital skills for the day by day, connected with other seniors, and enjoyed a great music therapy performance. It was amazing to see our seniors adopt new technologies and build friendships. Thank you to Ping for organising such a great morning for them.

Gold Coast Multicultural Network

This week, we had a reflective session at the third Gold Coast Multicultural Network event of the year, where organisations and multicultural communities gather to connect and identify issues affecting the community. This time, we hosted the "Working with Survivors of Torture and Trauma" workshop, delivered by the Queensland Program of Assistance to Survivors of Torture and Trauma (QPASTT). Participants learned valuable skills on how to effectively support and approach people with refugee backgrounds and asylum seekers who have survived torture and trauma. Through engaging activities, they explored the different barriers refugees face in accessing services and the challenges service providers meet. The session concluded with practical tools and techniques to create a safe and supportive environment. During the workshop, participants highlighted the importance of understanding the common experiences of refugees and recognising the unique factors of each person's journey. It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to share their experiences and learn from one another, fostering a sense of mutual support. Well done to our Community Development team for organising such an important session.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Workshops

We hosted two amazing workshops with the community and staff on mental health and wellbeing organised by our Settlement, Community Development and Wellbeing teams last week. These workshops provided participants with essential tools and practices to navigate personal and professional challenges while promoting mindfulness and emotional resilience. During the workshops, participants learned about emotional resilience, mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and practical tools for managing stress. They also enjoyed an art therapy session with our wonderful Suheir, exploring their artistic skills through mandala dot painting. These workshops were held during Queensland Mental Health Week, under the theme “Connect for mental health”, emphasising the proactive measures we can adopt to nurture and support positive mental health and wellbeing for ourselves and our communities. Well done to our teams for promoting mental health and wellbeing in our communities.

Certificate III in Individual Support 5th Intake

Migration Policy Roundtable

Our Head of Business and Stakeholder Development, Emily and Language Support Worker, Majid, and MCCGC member Ben Naday participated in the Migration Policy Roundtable organised by Young Australians in International Affairs (YAIA) last week. Emily and Ben were part of an experienced panel alongside Amnesty International Australia, discussing the complexities and realities of migration and refugee policy in the country. Majid shared his personal journey as a migrant and explained the barriers he successfully overcame. Thanks to YAIA for the invitation and for facilitating such an insightful discussion.

Settlement School Holidays

Here are some highlights from our school holiday activities with young clients from our Settlement programs, SETS and HSP. They had a lot of fun connecting with other youth, making new friends, and taking some much-needed time to relax while enjoying sports at the beach, movie night, and a dance class with our talented Language Support Worker, Rush. Engaging in activities during school holidays is crucial for their wellbeing, providing them with opportunities to connect and stay active. That’s why it’s so important for us to create these spaces for them. Thank you to our amazing Settlement team for such a great initiative. If you didn’t get to come along this time, please speak to the Settlement team to make sure you secure your spot for the next school holidays.

Women’s Group Mexican Art

And one more time, we had another fantastic Women’s Group session last week. Women came together to create the beautiful Mexican art piece, the “Eye of God”. They enjoyed crafting while also sharing time together and having fun. It was a great session led by our amazing volunteer, Janette, who shared the rich Wixárika culture through this beautiful yarn creation. It was a great opportunity for her to show her cultural traditions to other women from around the world. Here is some beautiful feedback we got from our workshop: “I absolutely love doing these classes run by the most beautiful ladies from MCCGC. I feel so relaxed, and I let my creativity flow. Congratulations to you all for creating such a great and fun atmosphere for us to spend quality time with great company.” “It was a great time for everyone joining this workshop. Thank you so much for making a lovely day!” “It was great to do our “Eye of God” with staff assistance. Thanks.” “I have learned a lot about Mexico, and it was amazing. MCCGC staff is excellent. Thank you.”

Balikbayan Blues Musical

Last week, Isabela from our Community Development team, Andrew, our CURA Support At Home Manager, and his lovely family enjoyed an incredible evening at the Balikbayan Blues Musical. This Filipino musical play shows the experiences of Filipino-Australian balikbayans as they navigate their funny, intriguing, and rewarding journey to the Land Down Under, while the other Pinoy locals express how to love unconditionally and move on with their lives. The play highlights the challenges migrants face while living in another country and their emotions going home. Thanks to the talented play’s director, Roselle Tenefrancia, for the invitation.

Multicultural Seniors Program Information Session

Seniors from the Chinese community gathered in our Southport office to enjoy amazing performances, connect with other community members and experience yummy food during our Multicultural Seniors Program information session. This program is all about supporting multicultural seniors in building stronger connections within their communities, especially those facing isolation and social and personal support barriers, as well as celebrating their cultural background. During the session, our Care Finder team presented our services, and we got the Queensland Police and Breast Screen Queensland to share information with the community. A huge thank you to Ping for organising such a wonderful event and bringing the Chinese senior community together.

Visit Angie Bell MP

Angie Bell MP visited our office and met with our Executive Leadership Team to discuss our efforts in supporting multicultural communities and empowering them to become active members of the city's community. Our team presented our services and initiatives, including employment, settlement, wellbeing, cultural awareness training, capacity building, advocacy, and community connections. It was an insightful meeting, and we are excited about the opportunity to work together and address the needs of our community.

Studio Opening and Dinner Multicultural Community Connect Queensland

Our Employment and Training team, Kyzzy and Marcela, had an amazing time at the Studio Opening and Dinner hosted by Multicultural Community Connect Queensland Inc. The event was inaugurated by Hon. Charis Mullen MP, Minister for Child Safety, Minister for Seniors & Disability Services, and Minister for Multicultural Affairs. It was a very important opportunity to connect with other organisations supporting multicultural communities on the Gold Coast, including Lisa Ward, CEO of ECCQ - Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland and Hon. Charis, and discuss collaborative initiatives in employment and training to upskill migrants.

Visit Councillor Joe Wilkinson

We had the pleasure of welcoming Councillor Joe Wilkinson to discuss our services and explore ways to continue supporting and advocating for multicultural communities in Division 7. It was a productive meeting, and we are excited about the collaborative efforts we can take together for the community.

Anniversary IWA Australia

It was an honour for our Head of Business and Stakeholder Development, Emily, and our Chief Operating Officer, Jess, to attend the 34th anniversary celebration of the Islamic Women’s Association IWA Australia Ltd at the Queensland Parliament in September. It was a significant moment to recognise the incredible work and dedication of CEO and founder Galila Abdelsalam OAM and her team in supporting the community. During the event, they engaged in insightful discussions with Hon. Shannon Fentiman MP, Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services, Minister for Women, and Hon. Charis Mullen MP, Minister for Child Safety, Minister for Seniors & Disability Services, and Minister for Multicultural Affairs about how to continue supporting multicultural communities on the Gold Coast.

Iconic Gold Coast Multicultural Festival 2024

Our team had an amazing time at the Iconic Gold Coast Multicultural Festival 2024, hosted by Multicultural Families Organisation Inc. during the weekend. They enjoyed delicious cultural food, arts and crafts, and beautiful performances that reflected the vibrant cultures on the Gold Coast. A huge thank you to Ellie from Community Development and Coco, our student placement, for leading our stall. It was great to see so many community members visit and learn about our services and support, and have meaningful discussions. We also had the visit of Hon. Charis Mullen MP, Minister for Child Safety, Minister for Seniors & Disability Services, and Minister for Multicultural Affairs, to our stall, who highlighted the important work we are doing for the multicultural communities on the Gold Coast.

Meet, Greet and Eat Session

On 10 September, we had our second MEET, GREET & EAT SESSION of the year at our CURA Wellness Centre. The topic the event was DOMESTIC VIOLENCE. Thank you to the community leaders for their time and insightful contributions to this difficult and prevalent subject. The event was very well attended and was interactive in nature. Take a look at some pictures from session. During the event we covered:  Understanding: Department of Home Affairs - Domestic & Family Violence Visa - Eligibility and Process Upskill: Training by Challenge DV - Recognising Domestic Violence in Your Community Learn: Gold Coast DV Support - MFO - SARA Program  Thank you to all stakeholders who presented and shared their expertise.  If you would like to join or know more about this network please email: cams@mccgc.org.au

Japanese Cultural Event Celebration at Ashmore

On 17 September 2024, we celebrated a key Japanese cultural event at the CURA Wellness Centre in Ashmore. ‘The Respect for The Aged Day’ is an important part of an annual calendar of events that is dedicated to honouring the wisdom, experience, and countless contributions that our older community members have made and continue to make to society. The event was a big success, and our guests enjoyed a morning of recognition, conversations, culture and delicious food. Special mention goes to the efforts by our amazing team members, including Chika Rutherford, Etsuko Hatano, Mayumi Shino, Yasuko Anderson, Tomoko Sakai, John Golden, Yalguun Batbayar, Yasmin Overson and Emily Clauss. It was wonderful connecting with our valued guests and clients such a beautiful environment. Thank you to everyone who attended the event and made it so memorable.

Gold Coast Wellbeing Week: 9-15 September 2024

A week of connection, conversation, and care. The inaugural Gold Coast Wellbeing Week will run across the city from 9 to 15 September 2024. Run by the newly formed Gold Coast Suicide Prevention Community Collaborative, with support from Gold Coast Primary Health Network (PHN) and City of Gold Coast, this community-driven initiative is focussed on bringing Gold Coasters together to foster connection and raise awareness around mental health and suicide prevention. Throughout the week, a variety of events will offer opportunities for connection, from a beach walk and lighting of Q1 and interactive art at Swell to skate lessons and a seniors morning tea. To know more about what’s on during the week, visit ? https://shorturl.at/9ffhU Please share this message with someone who might need it.

The Grand Multicultural Carnival

We had a blast at The Grand Multicultural Carnival held at Movie World on 7th September. With 25 world cultural performances, global cuisines to taste, thrilling rides and an incredible world parade, it was an evening to savour! MCCGC was proud to be part of the festivities to promote our activities. Seen here in front of the MCCGC stall is our amazing Community Development team member, Isabela. What a great show! Can’t wait to be back next year.

Gold Coast Women's Health Network 2024

MCCGC was pleased to be part of the Gold Coast Women’s Health Network held at Surfer’s Paradise on 8 September. The event brought different women’s health and wellness practitioners together to provide better health support to our community. Along with the chance to listen to great presentations by experts, it was also a fabulous opportunity to network and build strong connections with brilliant women from other organisations - all over some delicious food and snacks! One of our members, Monica even won the raft prize and couldn’t be happier. All in all, it was a great day for everyone! Thank you, Gold Coast Women’s Health Network for putting up such a great event.

Learning First Aid Techniques at the English Class

Last month, MCCGC held its Community Development English lesson workshop at the Palm Beach centre for all our members. With one interesting twist!  Making the event even more engaging, one of our student’s husband, Jonathan, who is a trained paramedic, demonstrated some very useful First Aid techniques to the entire group. Our attendees found the entire session extremely useful and enjoyed this addition to their regular classes. To end it all, all our participants had a fun-filled outing after the class, where they got a chance to say farewell to one of our amazing participants, Arantzazu, who is leaving Australia. Thank you to everyone who attended, and to Jonathan for taking the time out to do this educational session. And finally, bon voyage to the lovely Arantzazu! Enjoy some of these photos from that day!

2024 Central Gold Coast Volunteer Awards

We are very excited to share some wonderful news with all our friends and supporters. Yesterday, two MCCGC dedicated volunteers, Christine Wren James and Stephen James, were honoured at the 2024 Central Gold Coast Volunteer Awards, presented by Angie Bell MP. This is much-deserved recognition for Chris’ and Stephen’s incredible commitment to helping students build confidence through our Coffee, English and Friends program in Palm Beach. Coffee, English and Friends is our English social class that we hold every Tuesday, which provides a supportive and engaging environment for learners in all levels from different cultural backgrounds. We are proud to note that MCCGC was also recognised in the ceremony for its commitment to promoting multicultural values. Read more about the honour in this extract from the awards ceremony: Stephen James and Christine Wren James Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) offer a social group for the multicultural community where participants of all ages can come together, have fun and connect while learning English. Since 2021, Stephen and Christine have been amazing volunteers. They support the group by teaching and improving participants' English skills, creating a safe and supportive environment to learn together. They support participants to improve their English skills and give migrants who struggle with the language barrier a sense of purpose. Stephen and Christine recently supported a 75-year-old Brazilian woman who lost her English fluency and confidence after a stroke. Despite enrolling in English classes with a different organisation, the stress of speaking made her quit. Soon after, she found MCCC's social group, and with the support of Stephen and Christine, she regained her confidence and overcame her fear of speaking. She is now an active and enthusiastic participant in the classes. Stephen and Christine have become like family to all those they have helped. Congratulations Chris and Stephen, we are so proud of you!

GOPIO Charity Gala Dinner

Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) held its Charity Gala Dinner on 3rd August at the stunning Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. It was a fun evening with entertaining acts, delicious food  and of course, a chance to raise money for some worthy causes.  Isabela from Community Development, Kyzzy from Employment & Training and Board Member Leon Rebello attended the Gala Dinner on behalf of MCCGC.  Thank you to GOPIO for the invitation to such a beautiful event and congratulations on all the incredible work achieved by your committee and wider community.

MCCGC at 2024 Connect 2 Home Event

Last week, the Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast Ltd. Care Finder had the pleasure of being part of the 2024 Connect 2 Home event. A chilly day brightened up by warm smiles, hot coffee and friendly conversations with colleagues from the Footprints Community Care Finder team and our partners for the event Gold Coast Primary Health Network - GCPHN as we gave out information and goodies to the crowds. We are grateful to be a part of this important annual event and the Gold Coast Homelessness Network. Thank you to the major sponsors: Gold Coast Suns, People First Stadium Gold Coast Community Fund ABC Gold Coast O’Brien’s Caterin, Kinetic and City of Gold Coast. 

Media Release

“Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) are deeply saddened by the news of Sophie Wang’s passing. We offer our heartfelt condolences to her family and the community, and we stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time”. Lyn Dasey MCCGC Board Chair We encourage those experiencing strong emotions to please reach out to one of the following crisis services: 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) Lifeline (13 11 14) These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7. They can provide you with support, counselling, and referrals to other sources of assistance.

Creating Calm with Every Dot Workshop

Our participants had another amazing session in our Women’s Group in the Mindful Dot Art workshop, ‘Creating Calm with Every Dot’, led by Suheir from our SETS team. Women enjoyed making their beautiful mandalas. The workshop was a success, as the participants shared positive feedback about their experience of self-care and mindfulness. Some of the feedback: “Brilliant workshop. Great facilitator. Very relaxing and achieved the desired goal”. “This workshop was interesting, enjoyable, mindful. I had a quiet mind for a while, not thinking about anything else”. “It was amazing! Thank you so much. I look forward to the next ones!” Thank you to our Community Pathway Connector team for organising.

Supporting Community Groups

To start celebrating Multicultural Queensland Month, we want to highlight beautiful stories from our multicultural community, their effort and their spirit of service. Today, we will share the amazing work of two wonderful women who run a Beginners Embroidery Circle for free every fortnight on Wednesdays at our Southport office. They teach the basics of cross-stitch whilst learning about traditional Palestinian embroidery, showing how it's more than just stitching, it's about connecting people and sharing life stories while having fun. Brooke Hopwood and Victoria Lopez lead this awesome initiative from the Embroidery Circle group. They bring together people from different backgrounds to explore their creativity and a chance to learn new skills, creating a sense of belonging and community, celebrating traditional Palestinian embroidery, and, most importantly, enriching everyone's understanding of different cultures. Let's celebrate their efforts in creating a united community through the love of embroidery. If you want to join their group, please contact embroiderycirclegc@outlook.com or follow their community account on @goldcoast.forpalestine for updates.

Mongolian Naadam Festival

Thank you to the Mongolian Community Association of Queensland for the invitation to their Mongolian Naadam Festival last week. This festival celebrates Mongolia's national identity and cultural heritage, uniting communities in a display of historical pride and national spirit. Our lovely Isabella from the Community Development team and attendees enjoyed traditional sports competitions, cultural performances, and children's activities, fostering a strong sense of community and cultural pride.

Ready For Work Employment Support

Unlock your potential with our FREE job support program, ‘Ready For Work’! We provide individualised support to help Australians and Permanent Residents achieve their unique career aspirations. From crafting resumes and cover letters to mastering interview techniques, understanding Australian workplace culture, improving their English language skills, and more, we're here to support their journey to success. Read more here https://www.mccgc.org.au/services/employment-and-training/emplyment-hub/Contact us WorkTowards@mccgc.org.au

Fun Times at the Office

Our staff, volunteers, and student placement also have fun moments at the office, where we take a break from our thinking minds and work on our mental health. These are the passionate people who drive our efforts to support multicultural communities on the Gold Coast. A big thank you to our beautiful Lisa for leading today’s Zouk Dance Team Building Exercise. We enjoyed every moment of the vibrant dance and team spirit.

Crafted with Love Kym's Supports

Today, we want to acknowledge our incredible Kym from the Care Finder team. She is not just passionate about her work she is also an amazing human being. She has beautifully crocheted blankets and beanies for families in need with babies and young children from our Community Pathway Connector. Kym enjoys making these amazing products with love and adding creativity with her hands in the evenings. It is a way for her to make something useful and comforting. We are very proud to have you, Kym. Your dedication to helping the community is truly inspiring!

Join After-School Soccer Training

If you are aged 13 to 18 and come from a multicultural background, don't miss out on our After-School Soccer Training in partnership with PCYC and MFO. Every Monday, we offer a fantastic opportunity for you to have fun playing soccer, learn new skills, and make friends. This initiative keeps youth not just active but also mentally healthy, and teaches valuable life skills like teamwork, resilience, discipline, dedication, and perseverance. To join, please register using this link https://forms.office.com/r/YMkfvN1AeE Run at PCYC Ashmore between 3:30 pm and 5:30 pm

Practical Day at Strategix Training Centre

Last week, our Cert III in Individual Support students enjoyed a practical day at Strategix Training Centre in Loganholme. Following the instructor training, they had hands-on experience with essential equipment. They learned the use of patient hoists, skillfully transferring individuals from beds and even from the floor in emergency scenarios. They also learned the transfer of people between beds and wheelchairs and using a slit sheet for bed movements. Our students left with big smiles and invaluable skills. Thank you to Marcela from our Employment and Training team for organising the training.

Griffith University Presentation

This week, our lovely Isabella from the Community Development team visited Griffith University to inspire young people to join our Youth Advisory Group, present our services to the student community, and show them how we can support them. Good job Isa!

Mindful Dot Art Workshop

Come and join us in this beautiful Mindful Dot Art workshop, ‘Creating Calm with Every Dot’, led by our lovely Suheir, where you will unleash your inner artist through dotting mandalas but also induce calm in a meditative state, enjoy mindfulness and self-care. This workshop is for beginners. Date: Friday, 26th of July Time: 11:30 am to 1:30 pm Location: Women's Space Labrador (57 Billington St, Labrador QLD 4215) To register, please click the link below https://forms.office.com/r/nBAGEb2muc

Surf Life Saving Queensland Team Visited Our English Social Group

Our English Social Group in Palm Beach had the visit of the Surf Life Saving Queensland team and explained the ocean's mysteries. They shared life-saving knowledge on how to navigate unsafe currents, treat jellyfish stings, and understand the vital messages behind each beach flag. This knowledge allows us to ensure we can all enjoy the sea safely and with confidence. It was a very insightful session as our participants learned safety awareness strategies.

Youth Advisory Group Workshop

What an unforgettable night with our Youth Advisory Group this week. We had fun activities to learn more about each other and their passions, including a Hot Seat activity with our CEO, Shane, where they were very engaged, asking about how to become a positive leader and his multicultural background. They also shared their thoughts on young people’s challenges, like mental health and living costs. The night wrapped up with a surprise for them, a cooking lesson from the amazing Emanuel on making Argentinian Panchos and Chimichurri as we celebrated the farewell of our lovely Giselle, a wonderful member of our YAG.

NAIDOC Celebration 2024

We had a great Friday with our staff as we celebrated NAIDOC Week last week. We watched the film In My Blood It Runs and had an insightful discussion about it. We reflected on the history and achievements of First Nations in Australia and the Indigenous communities in our staff countries, their similarities with Australian First Nations, and their languages and challenges. We also had a food experience with catering from First Nations, allowing them to immerse themselves in the culture of the First Nations people. Thank you to our Marketing team for organising such a wonderful and insightful session.

Workshop For International Students Miami State High School

We're passionate about empowering the multicultural community in Gold Coast, especially the younger generation. That’s why we deliver workshops at schools where we talk about the culture shock theory, how to navigate Australian culture and support services available for new arrivals. Our lovely Soraya from the Youth Advisory Group, Student Placement Blu, along with Isabela from the Community Development team, led an engaging session with international students from Miami State High School. Seeing how they engaged and actively participated in games where they learned more about Australian culture was amazing. Our Community Development team has delivered these workshops to schools since last year and raised awareness about cultural differences. Well done team! If you want to learn more about our workshops at schools, please contact our team at cams@mccgc.org.au

Potluck With Our Staff

Last week was a fantastic time to celebrate our multiculturalism within our office with food. We gathered with our amazing staff in our potluck at the Southport office. Our incredible team came together, each bringing a dish representing their culture. We got Fattet Hummus from Palestine, arepas and rice pudding from Colombia, green curry from Thailand, Hong Kong fish balls, buuz from Mongolia, sausage rolls, fairy bread, prawn cocktail baguettes and lamingtons from Australia, scotch egged from England, brigadeiro and Feijão Tropeiro from Brazil, hallacas from Venezuela, three milk cake from Mexico, and many more.  Our potluck was more than a feast. It was a journey through the diverse cultures that make our team so amazing. Each bite told a story, and each flavour was a unique experience of our collective heritage.

Australian Youth Representative to the United Nations Met With Our YAG

Last week we had the visit of Gavin Choong, the Australian Youth Representative to the United Nations, who met with our talented members of the Youth Advisory Group (YAG) to discuss concerns and hopes for the future, touching on topics ranging from mental health, cost of living, climate change, cultural inclusion and diversity. Our YAG highlighted that strategies should be developed and implemented to support students who face challenges completing their education due to income and distance. They emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for every student to thrive, regardless of their circumstances, as well as improving the health system and housing issues. Soraya from our YAG expressed, “By addressing these critical areas, we can lead the way for a brighter future where every member of our community has the chance to succeed and live a positive life.” In his role, Gavin is compiling a comprehensive report with all the findings and observations to be shared with the government, business and civil society leaders, and the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This report will serve as a valuable resource, offering insights and facilitating informed discussions on our youth.

Youth Advisory Group attended Changing the Conversation: Culture in Conflict

Our incredible Soraya and Twisha from the Youth Advisory Group attended Multicultural Australia’s "Changing the Conversation: Culture in Conflict" event. The discussion, titled "Talking About World News When It Hits Home," was dynamic and fascinating, exploring the current state of our world and our role in driving change. The panellists Amok Dhuol, Arunn Jegan, and Peter Greste shared their personal stories and perspectives on how global conflicts have directly or indirectly impacted them. Audience members engaged with the panel through insightful questions, further enriching the conversation. Well done Soraya and Twisha!

Movie Night Youth SETS Program

We had an amazing Movie Night for young people from the Youth SETS Program. 20 lovely young minds joined us for a night of film, popcorn and connections as part of the school holiday program. This was a great initiative as we kept our youth engaged and inspired during the school holidays.

Women Social Group- Artful Wellbeing

Our ‘Women Social Group- Artful Wellbeing’ session was a hit! We had an amazing and beautiful opportunity to connect with other women. This time our participants explored their creative and artistic skills by decorating a clay heart in the What’s the Colour of Your Heart? activity, where each one brought a unique touch to their clay heart These are some of the beautiful feedback we received: “I am so grateful, pleased, and thankful for this activity. Connecting with yourself is always good and necessary. Exploring different possibilities for creativity makes you feel good. I can’t wait for the next workshop.” “This is a great initiative to bring local women together and support arts and culture on the Gold Coast.” “This was a lovely experience. I had a lovely time and didn’t know how creative I could be. I look forward to the next one. Thank you ladies.” “Such an amazing experience! Really lets you connect with yourself and others. This activity allows you to express yourself freely and go crazy with creativity. Would do again.” “Thank you for creating this space to slow down and share with amazing women. I love the self-care activities and all the sweetness of time.” Thank you to our Community Pathway Connector team for organising such amazing workshops where women can explore different strategies to improve their wellbeing. And a big shout out to our lovely Vanessa for bringing this workshop together.

Resume and Interview Preparation Workshop

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming Resume and Interview Preparation workshop. Whether starting your job search or aiming to enhance your interview skills, this workshop will provide essential techniques for success in today's competitive job market. During the workshop, you will learn: Tips on crafting a compelling resume  Effective communication strategies for interviews Body language cues that convey confidence and professionalism Techniques to research and prepare for specific job interviews Date: Thursday, 18th of July 2024Time: 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm – (Please arrive at 4:30 pm for registration and snacks, the workshop starts at 5 o’clock)Location: MCCGC Southport Office – Level 1, 60 High StLimited capacity, register at this link https://forms.office.com/r/4gpKBxC2hT

Gold Coast Disability Expo

Our Employment and Training team attended the Gold Coast Disability Expo in June. Kyzzy and Marcela had a great time networking with disability and aged care services providers, as well as government and advocacy organisations on the Gold Coast. It was amazing for them as they could promote our Employment and Training services and connect with new employers for the Cert III in Individual Support students advancing to their placement stage.

International Students Support Group

BRiTA Futures, in partnership with Gold Coast Health kicked off with an enthusiastic group of international students motivated to build their resilience and wellbeing while exploring their migration journey. The first session was very insightful as they started the process of learning new strategies to overcome challenges when setting up in a new country, such as isolation, depression and anxiety. Remember that we are meeting every Thursday for seven more weeks. If you are an international student and want to join us, please fill out this form https://forms.office.com/r/afiRwF4FiN Date: Every Thursday Time: 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Location: MCCGC Southport Office - level 1, 60 High Street (Free parking after 5:00 pm)

Cert III in Individual Support New Cohort

Our Employment and Training team hosted an amazing induction day for the Cert III in Individual Support new students today. Marcela and Camila presented the curriculum, showcasing the skills and knowledge students will gain for careers in aged care, disability support, and community services. Graduates can look forward to rewarding careers in a high-demand industry and making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Today’s induction was a success, leaving everyone inspired and excited.

Seniors Mini Expo

Our amazing Lisa from the Care Finder team attended a mini expo hosted by the office of Meaghan Scanlon and ADA Australia, where non-profit organisations presented their services to the Nerang community. It was an excellent opportunity for our team to have great conversations with the community and connect with new clients who need support navigating the Aged Care system.

Art+Potluck: Winter Solstice 2024

Thank you to Gold Coast Multicultural Arts and Art+Potluck Project for the invitation to their Art+Potluck: Winter Solstice 2024 event. It was a beautiful evening full of community spirit, shared food, and amazing stories around a symbolic "fire". Artists were encouraged to display their masterpieces. Among them, our talented Suheir from the Settlement team presented a beautiful dot painting piece she made that captivated everyone's attention. Congratulations to GCMAGIC for their wonderful new Creative Space in Ashmore.

Not Just an Acting Workshop

Our English Social Group in Palm Beach had a fantastic "Not Just an Acting” workshop last week, led by Noah Entertainment. They learned to explore their emotions through various movements and improvise lines in dialogue. Thank you to the trainer, Annick, for delivering an exceptional experience.

Refugee Week Sharing Stories with our Staff

We had a beautiful lunchtime with Jannine and Anna, two incredible women with refugee backgrounds who came to our Southport office and shared with our staff their stories of thriving and resilience here in Australia. Jannine came from Burundi, an African country, at a young age. She opened up about the challenges of settling in this country without guidance and struggling to maintain her cultural identity. Now, she encourages other young people to embrace and take pride in their heritage as an active member of our Youth Advisory Group, advocating for multicultural youth on the Gold Coast. Anna is from Ukraine and brings her creative talents as a Graphic Designer to our Marketing and Community Development teams. She expressed how happy she feels to call this country of opportunities her home and is dedicated to empowering her community to thrive and succeed. She also highlighted all the potential and skills migrants bring to this country to make it grow. Ellie, from our Community Development team, also shared her experience working with refugees from Syria, where she could understand the struggles they face and how incredible they are to overcome all the challenges. They both shine with brilliant futures ahead, and we are very happy to have them as part of our organisation. Their stories are not just inspiring, they are a reminder of the value and potential migrants bring to this country.

Gold Coast Multicultural Network

Celebrating Refugee Week "Finding Freedom: Family," we held the Gold Coast Multicultural Network this week. It was an insightful meeting where organisations shared their support initiatives for refugees to settle and thrive. Our amazing Language Support Workers, Shakila and Najma, shared with us their inspiring journeys of resilience and courage coming to Australia and their stories of giving back to the community. We want to share a beautiful message from Shakila: “For many here, the word "refugee" is just that—a word. For me, being a refugee is an overwhelming feeling. It’s a connection to my family, my friends, and my neighbours. Refugees mean sadness and suffering, yet they are also about respect—for the resilience of those who continue to endure. During Refugee Week, I urge you to remember that behind every refugee statistic is a human story, like mine, filled with dreams, fears, and implacable hope. Let us work together to provide support, amplify their voices, and fight for the freedom that every human being deserves. Today, let us honour them to make a difference so that tomorrow will not be too late.” Thank you to Tala from our SETS team, Renata, Kevin, and Steve from Multicultural Families Organisation Inc., and Moya Tong from SSI - Settlement Services International for presenting the services they provide to support refugees. Well done to our Community Development team for organising such a meaningful event.

Women Social Group- Artful Wellbeing

All women are welcome to our ‘Women Social Group- Artful Wellbeing’ session on the 28th of June. This time we will explore our creative and artistic skills by decorating a clay heart in the What’s the Colour of Your Heart? activity. You will also enjoy morning tea and connect with other inspiring women in a welcoming and supportive space. Date: Friday, 28th of June Time: 11:30 am to 1:30 pm Location: Women's Space Labrador (57 Billington St, Labrador QLD 4215) To register, please click the link below https://shorturl.at/xrBl5

Mongolian Community Wellbeing Meeting

We had a wonderful time at our recent community meeting focused on wellbeing of migrants! The event featured insightful talks from several speakers and included some fantastic meditation training sessions. It was heartwarming to see so many community members attend with their children, who also enjoyed themselves with fun activities in our office. Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to making this event a success. Your enthusiasm and participation made it a truly special day!

Join our After-School Soccer Training

Our After-School Soccer Training, in partnership with PCYC and MFO, is a sensation. We offer a great opportunity for youth to play soccer, learn new skills, and make friends. Join us every Monday for an outdoor soccer session and have fun. This initiative keeps youth not just active but also mentally healthy, and they learn valuable life skills like teamwork, resilience, discipline, dedication, and perseverance. If you want to join this exciting group, you are between 13 and 18 years old and from a multicultural background, register with this link: https://forms.office.com/r/YMkfvN1AeE Run at PCYC Ashmore between 3:30 pm and 5:30 pm

Meet our HSP Client Kubra and Explore Her Incredible Story

Refugee Week welcomes and celebrates everyone seeking safety, regardless of how they arrived here. This year’s #RefugeeWeek theme is “Finding Freedom”. To mark Refugee Week, we share the story of Kubra, one of our Humanitarian Settlement Program clients. Kubra came to Australia in September 2023 as a refugee from Pakistan. Even Though she is Afghan, she and her family fled their homeland in 1995 due to the war and conflict with the Taliban during their first occupation. In Pakistan, she continued to live as a refugee and attended a refugee school. Her dedication and good grades allowed her to apply for a scholarship to study dentistry in 2013, which she successfully got. She spent part of her early life in Pakistan but missed her homeland. So, she decided to return in 2019 when the situation improved. However, when the Taliban regained control, Kubra was in Kabul working as a dentist. Her mum and sister were in Daikundi. In 2021, they decided to pack up their lives once again and flee to Pakistan. “It was hard for women and girls to live alone under their regime, as we couldn’t study or work.” In Pakistan, they applied for a Humanitarian Visa to Australia and arrived on the 8th of September. “When we arrived here, we felt protected, safe, and relieved. Our lives changed drastically as we gained freedoms as women we didn’t have back home. I remember all the support MCCGC provided us in settling, such as teaching us how to open a bank account, visit a GP, and other important daily tasks. The organisation guided and inspired us through the process.” Kubra was very happy to be in Australia, but deep in her heart, she knew she wanted to continue her dentistry career. She started by having her qualifications recognised through the Australian Dental Council (ADC). After much effort, she received a positive outcome. “Now, my challenge was finding a job related to my professional background. I went to many clinics, handing my resume, and did many online applications. However, they asked for Australian experience, which I didn’t have. Until someone gave me the opportunity and employed me as a dental assistant. I was so happy.” The policies and procedures for dentists in Australia are different from those in Afghanistan, so she started a journey to learn new things and was passionate about it. “My boss is very supportive. He guides me on how dentists work in Australia and introduces me to the technology used here, which is much more advanced compared to what we used back home.” “I overcame many challenges to get to where I am now, but everything is about persistence and consistency. Even though the Australian work environment for dentists is different, you can self-learn. I did it, and my journey has been amazing. The amount of knowledge you can gain using internet platforms is incredible. The first two weeks at my job were challenging, but now I’m improving daily.” Kubra shared some advice for all migrants coming to Australia, “Here you have many opportunities, so you need to work hard and make the world a better place for everyone. Don’t rely just on the government and give back to those who need you.” She dreams of becoming a dentist in Australia, running her clinic, and, more importantly, giving back to the community. She wants to work in research for the public health sector and help the community. Thank you, Kubra, for sharing your beautiful story and inspiring us to follow our dreams.

BRiTA Futures Support Group For International Students

We are proud to partner with Gold Coast Health to deliver BRiTA Futures, a transformative program designed for international students to promote resilience and life skills. This support group consists of eight sessions, each of them crafted with fun activities that will allow you to strengthen self-esteem, improve family and community relationships, and set goal abilities. Our FREE support group is a safe space to grow and learn, helping you navigate cultural transitions with confidence and reducing the risk of depression and anxiety. The BRiTA support group will start on the 20th of June (8 weeks). Date: Every Thursday Time: 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Location: MCCGC Southport Office - level 1, 60 High Street (Free parking after 5:00 pm) Register here https://forms.office.com/r/afiRwF4FiN Enquiries: cpc@mccgc.org.au or 0455 253 495 Don't miss this opportunity to join a community that supports your journey to integration and success.

Gathering with Our SETS Young Women Clients

Our Friday afternoon was very special as we hosted a gathering with our SETS young women clients. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do. Listening to their voices, understanding their needs, and receiving feedback about our services is invaluable. We are committed to providing spaces where every voice is heard and valued. Our young clients' insights are very important as they help us create initiatives tailored to their needs. During the gathering, we had a girls' circle of empowerment where each girl shared the superpower they dreamed of having to inspire others. They also talked about common questions they have and aspirations, like the journey to university and better ways to seek employment. A big shout out to Suheir from our SETS program and Ellie from Community Development for leading this insightful gathering.

Sharing Stories Volunteers English Social Group

Our English Social Group in Palm Beach continues celebrating volunteers. This week, our lovely volunteer, Steve, shared his incredible experience volunteering in Spain for the pilgrimage of the ‘Camino de Santiago’, where hundreds of people embark on a transformative journey by walking for days. It was an amazing opportunity for our participants to learn new vocabulary, hear amazing stories, and be inspired to seek similar opportunities within our community. Our English Social Group is a great place to learn English, have fun, and share your life experiences with others. If you want to join our group, send an email to cams@mccgc.org.au with your details. Let's keep making a difference!

Digital Skills Workshop Aged Care Facility Arcare

Our incredible student placement, Raza, did an amazing job at facilitating our Digital Skills Workshop with seniors from the aged care facility Arcare. These workshops, led by Jay and Ping, are part of our Multicultural Seniors Program, where we empower seniors with digital skills to improve their daily lives. Good job Raza, we love your enthusiasm for giving back to the community.

Meet Our Lovely Participant Hebe

We are so happy to share this lovely story of Hebe, a remarkable woman who exemplifies resilience and the power of never giving up. Hebe is one of the extraordinary participants at our social group Coffee, English & Friends in Palm Beach. Hebe is a 75-year-old lady from Brazil who has been living in Australia for some years. She was once fluent in English, but her life took a challenging turn when she suffered a cerebrovascular accident, causing her to lose her language ability and confidence. She told us, "I enrolled in English classes in an RTO but quickly realised my confidence was gone. The fear of making mistakes and failing was overwhelming. I was so stressed that speaking became incredibly difficult. I felt stuck and decided to quit." But Hebe's story didn’t end there. Her son found our social group, Coffee, English & Friends, and contacted us. Ellie from our Community Development team remembers Hebe's first day. " The first time Hebe came to our class, she was a bit afraid, unsure if she could overcome her past experiences. But as she started engaging with the group, she was impressed by the supportive, relaxed and friendly atmosphere." In our group, Hebe found a place where making mistakes was part of the learning process, and joy was there in every session. With a smile on her face, she said to us, "Here, I don’t feel any pressure. There's no problem making mistakes. Everyone participates. I am excited to meet with my friends again on Tuesdays." With the support of our social group, Hebe has regained her confidence and overcome her fear of speaking. She is now an active and enthusiastic participant in our classes. We are so happy to have Hebe in our group and proud to have helped her regain her confidence. Her story is a powerful reminder that we can overcome difficult challenges with support and perseverance.