NSW Humanitarian Awards 2026 Winners Announced
We are proud to recognise the remarkable individuals and organisations who have gone above and beyond to support refugees and people seeking asylum in New South Wales.
The NSW Humanitarian Awards 2026 celebrate those whose tireless efforts have helped to build a more inclusive, compassionate, and resilient society. Across a range of fields, this year’s recipients have demonstrated outstanding commitment to human rights, community engagement, and the wellbeing of some of our most vulnerable populations.
It is with great appreciation and admiration that we present the winners of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Awards, by category:
Refugee Community Worker
A former refugee working on refugee issues with their own or other refugee communities, in either a paid or unpaid position.
Awarded to Jamshid Mirzaee
Jamshid Mirzaee is a Casework Officer with the Kateb Hazara Association and a passionate advocate for refugee communities in New South Wales. Drawing on his own lived experience as a refugee, he has dedicated himself to supporting newly arrived individuals and families to overcome settlement challenges and build successful lives in Australia.
Since joining the Kateb Hazara Association in 2024, Jamshid has supported more than 1,000 refugees and migrants and managed over 1,500 casework matters across settlement, education, employment, and welfare services. He has also helped deliver a range of community programs, including English language classes, citizenship preparation courses, First Aid and CPR training, water safety initiatives, and employment readiness programs.
Beyond his casework, Jamshid has played a significant role in the Refugee Camp in My Neighbourhood project, progressing from tour guide to Assistant Project Coordinator. Since 2019, he has shared his personal refugee journey with thousands of visitors, helping to build empathy, challenge misconceptions, and increase public understanding of the experiences of refugees and asylum seekers.
Through his leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to helping others succeed, Jamshid Mirzaee has made a significant contribution to refugee settlement and community inclusion in New South Wales and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Refugee Community Worker.
Refugee Community Worker
A former refugee working on refugee issues with their own or other refugee communities, in either a paid or unpaid position
Awarded to Atefa Mohseni
Atefa Mohseni is a community advocate and emerging leader who has dedicated herself to supporting refugee and newly arrived communities in Australia, particularly Afghan women and families. After fleeing Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover in 2021, she rebuilt her life in Australia while continuing her commitment to community inclusion, women’s empowerment, and refugee support.
Through her work with the Kateb Hazara Association, Atefa has played a leading role in delivering major community events that bring people together, celebrate cultural diversity, and strengthen community connections. As Event Manager for initiatives including the Nowruz Festival and International Women’s Day celebrations, she has successfully coordinated staff, volunteers, service providers, and community stakeholders to create welcoming and inclusive spaces for refugee communities.
Atefa is particularly passionate about empowering women from refugee and culturally diverse backgrounds. Through her work, she has created opportunities for women to showcase their talents, artwork, and achievements, helping to build confidence, visibility, and participation in community life. Her efforts have helped foster a greater sense of belonging, recognition, and social inclusion for many women and families across New South Wales.
Through her leadership, resilience, and dedication to supporting others, Atefa Mohseni has made a significant contribution to refugee communities in New South Wales and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Refugee Community Worker.
Refugee Community Worker
A former refugee working on refugee issues with their own or other refugee communities, in either a paid or unpaid position
Awarded to Mohammad Nawrozi
Mohammad Nawrozi is a dedicated settlement worker and community advocate who has spent many years supporting refugees and newly arrived migrants to build successful and connected lives in Australia. Through his work with the Dai Cultural Association, he helps individuals and families navigate the challenges of settlement while creating opportunities for participation, education, and employment.
As a Settlement Engagement and Transition Support (SETS) Casework Officer, Mohammad delivers a wide range of programs that strengthen community wellbeing and independence. His work includes supporting clients through Health and Well-being Programs, Family Domestic Violence information sessions, learning to swimming program, Learning to Driving Program, employment and training pathways, First Aid and White Card courses, and a range of recreational and community development initiatives designed to foster inclusion and belonging.
Mohammad’s commitment to refugee communities extends beyond his current role. He has worked with Community Refugee Sponsorship Australia, STTARS South Australia, UNAA South Australia, UNHCR-NSW, AMEP-Victoria, Bread and Butter Project-NSW and the Refugee Camp in My Neighbourhood project, while also contributing to community organisations and volunteer initiatives across Australia. Fluent in seven languages, he is able to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and provide culturally responsive support to those most in need.
Refugee Community Worker
A former refugee working on refugee issues with their own or other refugee communities, in either a paid or unpaid position
Awarded to Gul Afroz Mohammadi
Gul Afroz Mohammadi is a community leader and advocate who has dedicated herself to supporting refugees and newly arrived migrants to build connected, healthy, and empowered lives in Australia. Originally from Afghanistan, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work, helping refugee families overcome barriers to settlement and community participation.
As a Community Development Worker and Vice President of the Dai Cultural Association, Gul has played a key role in delivering programs that promote wellbeing, social inclusion, and community engagement. Her work has included coordinating women’s swimming classes, youth activities, music and art programs, wellbeing initiatives, and employment readiness training, creating opportunities for refugees to develop confidence, skills, and meaningful community connections.
Gul is particularly passionate about supporting refugee women and families. Through culturally safe programs and community initiatives, she has encouraged many women to participate in activities, access support services, and become more actively involved in community life. Her leadership has helped create welcoming environments where people feel valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their goals.
Through her commitment to community development, education, and social inclusion, Gul Afroz Mohammadi has made a significant contribution to refugee communities in New South Wales and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Refugee Community Worker.
Education
Schools, universities, and other educational institutions, or individuals working at these institutions, who assist refugees by breaking down barriers to education.
Awarded to Mary Kavanagh
Mary Kavanagh is the Relieving Deputy Principal of Evans Intensive English Centre and a passionate advocate for refugee students and their families. Throughout her career, she has worked to create educational environments where newly arrived young people feel safe, supported, and empowered to succeed, recognising that wellbeing, belonging, and learning are deeply connected.
Since joining Evans High School in 2012, Mary has played a leading role in developing innovative and trauma-informed approaches to refugee education. Through partnerships with organisations including STARTTS and Blacktown Women’s and Girls Health Centre, she has helped establish specialised wellbeing and empowerment programs that support students from refugee backgrounds to build confidence, resilience, and positive engagement with school.
Mary has also strengthened support for refugee families through initiatives such as the “Mum’s the Word” program, which helps women from refugee backgrounds develop English language skills, build confidence, and navigate life in Australia. Her leadership has resulted in lasting systems and structures that ensure refugee students receive coordinated academic, wellbeing, and settlement support.
Through her vision, compassion, and commitment to educational equity, Mary Kavanagh has made a significant contribution to refugee education in New South Wales and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Education.
Education (Highly Commended)
Schools, universities, and other educational institutions, or individuals working at these institutions, who assist refugees by breaking down barriers to education.
Youth
A young person aged 12-25 of refugee background making an outstanding contribution to Australian society in their chosen field.
Awarded to Fadi Dahdal
Fadi Dahdal is a dedicated youth leader and volunteer whose journey from refugee young person to community mentor has inspired many others. After arriving in Australia from Syria, Fadi faced the challenges of resettlement, adapting to a new culture, language, and education system while rebuilding his life in a new country.
As a participant in STARTTS’ Youth Start After-Hours Program, Fadi found support, connection, and opportunities to grow. Over time, he transformed his own experiences into a source of strength for others, choosing to give back to the community that helped him settle. Today, he volunteers regularly with the program, supporting newly arrived young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds through camps, recreational activities, and community programs.
Fadi is recognised for his compassion, leadership, and ability to connect with young people through shared lived experience. He creates welcoming and inclusive spaces where participants feel understood, valued, and encouraged to build confidence and resilience. Many young people see him as a trusted mentor and positive role model.
Through his generosity, leadership, and commitment to supporting others, Fadi Dahdal has made a significant contribution to refugee youth in New South Wales and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Youth.
Government and Legal
Individuals or organisations from the government or legal sectors working to advise, assist or support asylum seekers or refugees.
Awarded to Eaowyn Vaughan-Johnson
Eaowyn Vaughan-Johnson is a Social Worker in the Rehabilitation Coordinator role with the New England Community Mental Health Service within Hunter New England Local Health District. Working in public acute mental health services for the past decade, Eaowyn’s professional focus include refugee mental health, housing and homelessness, domestic and family violence, and Mental Health Rehabilitation.
Since 2021, Eaowyn has played a leading role in improving mental health and settlement outcomes for Ezidi refugees in Armidale through collaborative, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approaches to care.
Eaowyn has been instrumental in strengthening partnerships between Community Mental Health, STARTTS, Refugee Health, the Community Living Supports for Refugees (CLSR) program, and other local services. Through her advocacy and leadership, she has helped develop more coordinated referral pathways and improved access to mental health and psychosocial support for refugee families experiencing the impacts of trauma, displacement, and resettlement.
Widely respected across the health and community sectors, Eaowyn consistently goes beyond the scope of her role to ensure vulnerable individuals and families receive the support they need. She has championed refugee-focused training for health professionals, supported culturally responsive practice across services, and worked closely with refugee communities to build trust, engagement, and access to care.
Through her compassion, leadership, and commitment to collaborative care, Eaowyn Vaughan-Johnson has made a significant contribution to the wellbeing of refugee communities in regional New South Wales and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Government and Legal.
Government and Legal (Highly Commended)
Individuals or organisations from the government or legal sectors working to advise, assist or support asylum seekers or refugees.
Awarded to Ruth Skelton
Ruth Skelton is a Clinical Nurse Specialist and Clinical Lead of the Asylum Seeker Advocacy and Clinical Team at the NSW Refugee Health Service. For nearly three decades, she has provided compassionate, expert care to people seeking asylum in New South Wales, supporting individuals and families through some of the most challenging periods of their lives.
A highly respected nurse and advocate, Ruth combines clinical expertise with an unwavering commitment to ensuring people receive the healthcare, support, and dignity they deserve. She is known for her determination in navigating complex systems on behalf of vulnerable clients, helping people access essential healthcare, medications, specialist services, and practical support throughout often lengthy and uncertain immigration journeys.
Ruth’s approach is deeply person-centred. Despite increasing service demands, she has never lost sight of the individual behind each case, taking the time to understand each person’s circumstances, health needs, and experiences. Her empathy, professionalism, and quiet advocacy have earned the trust and gratitude of countless people seeking asylum, many of whom return to thank her after receiving permanent protection and settlement outcomes.
Through her dedication, clinical leadership, and steadfast commitment to some of the most vulnerable members of our community, Ruth Skelton has made an extraordinary contribution to refugee health and wellbeing and is a highly deserving recipient of a Highly Commended Award in the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Awards.
Media
Media outlets, journalists or media officers supporting, prioritising and/or raising awareness of refugee issues.
Awarded to Farah Tawfik
Farah Tawfik is an Egyptian Australian journalist with SBS Arabic whose reporting has helped bring refugee stories and experiences to a wider audience across Australia. Through her work, she has consistently amplified the voices of refugees and people seeking asylum, highlighting both the challenges they face and the remarkable contributions they make to Australian society.
Farah’s journalism focuses on issues including migration, social cohesion, war trauma, and refugee settlement. Her reporting has explored complex topics such as the experiences of people held in immigration detention, while also sharing powerful stories of resilience, achievement, and community contribution. Through these stories, she has helped foster greater understanding of refugee experiences among both Arabic-speaking and broader Australian audiences.
A skilled bilingual journalist, Farah regularly produces content in both Arabic and English, ensuring that people who may otherwise struggle to have their voices heard can participate in public conversations. Her work bridges communities, promotes understanding, and gives visibility to stories that might otherwise remain untold.
Through her commitment to ethical journalism, social inclusion, and elevating refugee voices, Farah Tawfik has made a significant contribution to public understanding of refugee issues in Australia and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Media.
Refugee Supporter
A member of the broader Australian community, of any background, supporting and assisting refugees in any capacity, in either a paid or unpaid position.
Awarded to Felicia Paul
Felicia Paul has dedicated more than 30 years to supporting refugees and people seeking asylum through education, settlement services, intensive casework, and advocacy. Throughout her career, she has worked alongside individuals and families experiencing displacement, trauma, and uncertainty, helping them navigate complex systems and build safer, more secure futures.
After beginning her career teaching English to newly arrived migrants and refugees, Felicia then went on to do some humanitarian work overseas. Since 2012, she has been a member of the Complex Casework team at the Asylum Seekers Centre, supporting people facing some of the most significant challenges associated with seeking asylum, including homelessness, family violence, severe mental health concerns, and prolonged visa uncertainty.
Felicia is recognised not only for her compassionate, trauma-informed support of individuals and families, but also for her contribution to service innovation and advocacy. She helped establish the Asylum Seekers Centre’s Family Support Program and has contributed to campaigns and policy advocacy addressing gaps in support, housing, healthcare, and income assistance for people seeking asylum.
Through her compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to human dignity, Felicia Paul has made an extraordinary contribution to the lives of refugees and people seeking asylum and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Refugee Supporter.
Refugee Supporter (Highly Commended)
A member of the broader Australian community, of any background, supporting and assisting refugees in any capacity, in either a paid or unpaid position.
Awarded to Sheetal Challam
Sheetal Challam is a respected leader in multicultural and refugee health whose work over more than 20 years has helped transform how health services engage with refugee communities across New South Wales. Her passion for this work was ignited at Blacktown Migrant Resource Centre (now SydWest Multicultural Services), where she worked with newly arrived refugee young people whose courage, resilience, and determination inspired a lifelong commitment to advancing equity and inclusion.
Since then, Sheetal has dedicated her career to supporting multicultural and refugee communities through leadership roles across the sector, including previously at Community Relations Commission (Multicultural NSW), as a volunteer board member of Bankstown Women’s Health Centre and now as Principal Strategic Advisor of the Multicultural Program at the Cancer Institute NSW. In this role, she has championed culturally responsive and trauma-informed approaches that improve access to cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and survivorship services.
Sheetal has led innovative partnerships between health, settlement, and community organisations to address barriers faced by refugee communities when accessing healthcare. Her leadership of the Refugee Cancer Screening Project brought together organisations including STARTTS and the NSW Refugee Health Service to develop community-led approaches that improved participation in lifesaving cancer screening programs. This work was recognised as a finalist in the 2024 NSW Premier’s Awards.
A passionate advocate for equity, Sheetal has secured funding for new initiatives, strengthened regional engagement, supported bicultural workforce development, and helped ensure refugee communities are active partners in shaping healthcare solutions. Her work has strengthened trust, improved health literacy, and created lasting change across the NSW health system.
Best Project
An outstanding project working with or assisting refugees. The project can be run by an individual group or organisation and can either be ongoing or completed during the last year.
Awarded to DCJ Refugee and Humanitarian Employment Program
The NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) Refugee and Humanitarian Employment Program (RHEP) is a pioneering initiative that creates meaningful employment pathways for refugees and humanitarian entrants within DCJ, supporting their participation in the NSW public sector. Since its launch in 2023, the program has helped refugees overcome one of the most significant barriers to settlement, accessing meaningful employment and gaining local work experience, while strengthening diversity and inclusion within the NSW public sector.
RHEP delivers a structured, trauma-informed employment pathway that supports both participants and host teams through recruitment, onboarding and the early stages of employment. This includes workplace preparation, cultural awareness, mentoring and ongoing support to ensure successful integration and sustainable employment outcomes. Through strong partnerships with settlement and community organisations, the program has enabled participants from diverse refugee backgrounds to build careers within DCJ and contribute meaningfully to their teams.
A key strength of the program is its grounding in lived experience. The program is led by Ramin Humdard, who joined DCJ as a participant and now leads the program’s growth and delivery. This perspective ensures the program remains culturally responsive, practical, and closely aligned to the needs of newly arrived refugee communities.
Through its innovative approach to employment, inclusion and empowerment, the Refugee and Humanitarian Employment Program is transforming lives, opening pathways to opportunity and demonstrating the valuable contributions refugees make to communities and workplaces across New South Wales. The program reflects DCJ’s commitment to building an inclusive workforce and recognising the value of diverse skills, experiences and perspectives. The program is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Best Project.
Rural and Regional
Organisations or individuals working in regional areas of NSW to assist refugees.
Awarded to Murray Valley Sanctuary Refugee Group
For more than 20 years, the Murray Valley Sanctuary Refugee Group (MVSRG) has played a vital role in supporting refugees to settle, thrive, and build new lives in the Albury-Wodonga region. Established in 2004 and led entirely by volunteers, the organisation has become a cornerstone of refugee settlement and community support in regional New South Wales and Victoria.
Since its formation, MVSRG has supported more than 900 refugees, including 192 people directly sponsored through humanitarian visa pathways. The group provides practical assistance with settlement, family reunion applications, education, employment, transport, and community participation. Through innovative initiatives including interest-free airfare loans, driving mentor programs, scholarships, and community education workshops, MVSRG has helped refugees overcome barriers and achieve greater independence and inclusion.
A defining strength of MVSRG is its volunteer network, which develops long-term relationships with refugee families and provides support that extends well beyond formal settlement services. Through friendship, mentoring, advocacy, and practical assistance, volunteers help families navigate the challenges of resettlement while maintaining strong connections to culture, community, and opportunity.
Through two decades of dedication, compassion, and community leadership, the Murray Valley Sanctuary Refugee Group has made an extraordinary contribution to refugee settlement and social inclusion in regional Australia and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Rural and Regional.
Sport
Awarded to an organisation or individual for outstanding efforts in promoting sporting endeavours among people from refugee backgrounds.
Awarded to Essa Khan
Essa Khan is a dedicated community volunteer, mentor, and coach who has used sport to create opportunities for connection, belonging, and positive development for refugee and migrant young people in New South Wales. Through his longstanding involvement with the Australian Afghan Football Association, he has helped foster inclusive and supportive environments where young people can build confidence, friendships, and a sense of community.
As a volunteer coach, Essa has worked closely with young people from Afghan and refugee backgrounds, using football as a vehicle for leadership, teamwork, resilience, and social inclusion. His mentoring and encouragement have helped many young people navigate the challenges of settlement while developing skills, confidence, and strong community connections.
Beyond the football field, Essa is recognised for his commitment to volunteerism and grassroots community development. Through his support of youth, families, and community sporting programs, he has contributed to stronger social cohesion and greater participation within multicultural communities. His work highlights the important role that sport can play in promoting wellbeing, cultural connection, and positive settlement outcomes.
Through his leadership, mentorship, and dedication to supporting refugee youth, Essa Khan has made a meaningful contribution to refugee communities across New South Wales and is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Sport.
Digital Impact
Individuals or initiatives using digital platforms to create meaningful impact for refugees through storytelling, journalism, campaigns, or online engagement.
Awarded to Free Australian Citizenship Test Practice in your Language & Amro Zoabe
Free Australian Citizenship Test Practice in your Language is an innovative digital platform that is helping break down language and accessibility barriers for people preparing to become Australian citizens. Developed by Amro Zoabe, the platform provides free, multilingual access to Australian Citizenship Test practice questions, helping new Australians build confidence and prepare for one of the most important milestones in their settlement journey.
Launched in 2025 as a self-funded community initiative, the platform offers more than 1,000 practice questions translated into 85 community languages. Designed to be simple, accessible, and easy to use, it supports people who may have limited English proficiency or limited digital literacy, ensuring that citizenship preparation is available to all, regardless of background or circumstance.
Since its launch, Free Australian Citizenship Test Practice in your Language has been used by more than 28,000 learners across Australia, particularly within Arabic, Vietnamese, Mandarin, and other multilingual communities. By removing financial, language, and technology barriers, the platform has created a practical and inclusive pathway for thousands of people seeking to fully participate in Australian civic life.
Through innovation, accessibility, and a commitment to community empowerment, Amro Zoabe have created a transformative digital resource that strengthens inclusion, promotes citizenship, and supports successful settlement outcomes. Free Australian Citizenship Test Practice in your Language is a deserving recipient of the 2026 NSW Humanitarian Award for Digital Impact.