Dean Smith (WA, Liberal Party, Shadow Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Africa is big, bright and warm in spirit and generosity, and so it was at the Organisation of African Communities in Western Australia 2024 award night celebrations. I want to express my gratitude to the Organisation of African Communities in Western Australia for the invitation to attend their 6th annual Western Australian African Communities Awards last Saturday. Special thanks, of course, go to Dr Casty, who is the leader of the Organisation of African Communities in WA and a leader that is warmly embraced and held in very high regard in the African community and beyond in many other communities in Western Australia. I'm very proud to have a long-running association and to support the Organisation of African Communities in Western Australia.

This awards night was part of celebrating the important work that they do in our community in Western Australia. It was inspiring to hear many of the stories of talented members across the community leading in areas like youth leadership, women's advocacy, sports and excellence in innovation. One of the finalists for the innovation category was Ms Joan Gregory, who founded Alpha Carers Australia. Alpha Carers is a leading healthcare provider known for its compassionate and culturally sensitive care. I also want to congratulate Naomi Cyrus, who won the women in leadership award. Naomi's leadership extends beyond her community work. She plays an active role in the multicultural advisory council, where she helps shape discussions that impact multicultural communities across Western Australia. Her passion for mentoring and uplifting others has made her a cherished figure, inspiring countless women to reach their full potential. It was a night of celebration and it was important to recognise and honour the tremendous success African communities have had in Western Australia. Its president, Dr Casty, had this to say:

Our community has always been rich in talent, diversity and the drive to make a difference. The stories of our award recipients tonight reflect the incredible journeys of growth and transformation that have touched lives far beyond their own. Their achievements remind us of the potential that lies within each of us to inspire, to influence and to create meaningful change.

She goes on to say:

As we celebrate these moments of triumph, let us also take this opportunity to reflect on the importance of unity, mentorship and giving back to the community. Together we are not only stronger but also capable of achieving greatness in ways that will continue to uplift future generations.

Once again, I thank all of my friends and the African community in Western Australia for their support, for the great work they do to make Western Australia great place to live and for bringing some of that brightness, that boldness, that warmth, and that spirit and generosity from Africa to Western Australia.