The Andrews Labor Government is proud to welcome eight new appointees to the Victorian Multicultural Commission, strengthening its work promoting and advocating for diverse communities.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Richard Wynne said each commissioner had been recognised for their skills and lived experience championing cultural and religious diversity in the State.
They come from a variety of new and established communities, representing various cultural and religious backgrounds and include former refugees and strong youth representation.
The announcement comes shortly following the appointment of Chairperson Viv Nguyen last month.
The new appointees are:
- Maria Dimopoulos, Deputy Chairperson
- Khayshie Tilak Ramesh, Youth Commissioner (reappointed)
- Mohammed Yassin, Community Organisation Representative Commissioner
- Bwe Thay, Commissioner
- Judy Tang, Commissioner
- David Nyuol Vincent, Commissioner
- Sankaran (Shankar) Kasynathan, Commissioner
- Sisay Dinku, Commissioner (reappointed)
As the main conduit between multicultural communities and the government, the Commission advises the Minister on a broad range of issues facing our diverse communities.
The Commission also promotes the social, cultural and economic benefits of diversity, oversees a network of Regional Advisory Councils and delivers the state’s largest multicultural celebration, Cultural Diversity Week.
The new commissioners join current serving commissioners Tina Hosseini, Walter Rapoport and Rosaria Zarro.
Biographies of the commissioners are available at .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs Richard Wynne
“Each of our commissioners bring a wealth of experience and expertise to help promote, preserve and celebrate Victoria’s proud cultural diversity.”
“Our multicultural communities will be well supported by this group of inspiring leaders and I look forward to working with them alongside the new Chair Viv Nguyen.”
Quotes attributable to Victorian Multicultural Commission Chair Viv Nguyen
“I am delighted by the appointment of our new commissioners and welcome them to our dynamic team.”
“I am confident that together, we can achieve positive outcomes for all Victorians and promote the social, cultural and economic benefits of diversity in our state.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020