Tara Murray
Sunbury’s Shammi Parekh wants to inspire others ahead of International Women’s Day.
Ms Parehk was among the winners at last year’s Hume council community awards for her work in the community.
She has lived in Hume for 35 years and noticed when she moved to Sunbury that the area lacked cultural diversity compared to other suburbs like Broadmeadows.
“In 2019, I founded the Multicultural Resources Hub in Sunbury,” she said. “MCR Hub provides essential information, guidance, and advice to immigrants in order to help them feel more positive and included in the community.
“We celebrate individual and community uniqueness, value cultural differences, and recognize the benefits of inclusion.
“Working alongside Hume City Council and the state government has given me the confidence and support to create programs and deliver opportunities that help connect communities together.”
Ms Parekh said ever since she had been a child that she wanted to help and inspire those around her.
It’s a passion that she still has today and says that International Women’s Day is special.
“International Women’s Day, to me, is a reminder of the immense importance of gender equality and women’s rights across the globe. It inspires me to deepen my knowledge and understanding of the struggles and challenges that women face worldwide.
“ It encourages me to raise awareness and celebrate the importance of equal representation of women in our community and to strive towards reducing the gender gap in all aspects of life, including education, employment, healthcare, and political representation.”
Ms Parekh will spend IWD with the Multicultural Resources Hub, which in collaboration with National Care Centre, GUIH, and Goonawarra Neighbourhood House, will be celebrating the contribution and achievements of the diverse group of multicultural women in our community.
She encourages other women to be involved in the community.
“I firmly believe that every woman possesses a unique quality that sets her apart. However, many women may struggle to realise their full potential without help. In such instances, a helping hand can make all the difference by providing the necessary guidance and support to unleash a woman’s true potential.”
