Engaging role model
VU graduate and staff member Elleni Bereded-Samuel is passionate about community engagement and social inclusion.
"I came from Ethiopia on a scholarship 17 years ago and studied counselling and education at VU to support my work with culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
After working on a project preparing Horn of African refugees for work or further study, I was offered the position of VU’s Community Partnerships Officer. In 2005, I was appointed the first African Commissioner for the Victorian Multicultural Commission – a six-year appointment.
In August 2012 I was named one of the 100 most influential African Australians for my contribution to education, training, employment and social inclusion.
I was also appointed by the Prime Minister as one of 40 Australian champions individually selected as People of Australia Ambassadors. Our role is to provide advice to the government on issues concerning the Australian community. It is very humbling to be recognised for work that I love doing.
Today, I also work as Community Engagement Advisor and Co-ordinator at VU’s Office for Knowledge Exchange. I am also a Director of the SBS Board, and was recently appointed to the Western Health Board."
Courses studied
Find out more about counselling and education courses at VU
