Advance Diversity Services (ADS) is a leading non-profit organisation that builds community, brings cultures together and promotes justice, equality and respect. We provide a range of community, aged care, family, disability and settlement services to enhance the health, wellbeing and community connections of individuals and families in St George, the Sutherland Shire, and inner Sydney.

I work in the role of Community Development Officer in the Settlement and Community Services team, which provides support to newly arrived migrants and refugees. I work with the local multicultural community on programs to build their capacity and strength, in collaboration with local councils, educational institutions, government agencies, and community organisations in the area.

Being based near a lot of waterways, water safety is an issue that affects our local communities. At ADS, we realised that more action needed to be taken to reduce drowning deaths among migrants and refugees. As such, we led the South East Sydney Multicultural Water Safety Committee in its early stages and continue to be an active part of the group. We are pleased to see more services working together in similar groups throughout Sydney and the state. We want to make sure that migrants and refugees who come to our shores starting a new life with so much optimism are equipped to safely enjoy the Australian cultural tradition of aquatic recreation.