From Africa to Engadine, Apojak Biar is now making a name for herself on the national arena.
The youth advocate for multiculturalism is a finalist in the 2018 Australian Human Rights Commission awards, being held on Friday.
Each year the awards recognise the outstanding contribution of individuals and organisations in promoting and protecting human rights and freedoms.
Ms Biar, 24, was nominated by the Multicultural Advocacy Network, for the Young People’s Human Rights Medal – one of five finalists in the category. It is rewarded to an individual under the age of 25 who has made an outstanding contribution to advancing human rights in Australia.
Born in a refugee camp in Kenya and fleeing to Australia as a child, Ms Biar experienced racial abuse first-hand. She was 19 years of age when she established the South Sudan Voices of Salvation Incorporated. The nationwide charity supports people suffering the effects of civil conflict.
As an ambassador and advisor for multiculturalism, Ms Biar has represented Australia and the UN High Commission for Refugees in Geneva.
She is committed to giving refugees a voice, and changing the negative perception that she says exist within the community.
“There is a lack of awareness and knowledge about the positives that these communities bring to Australia, which is so well known for its diversity,” she said. “The sooner we can utilise that strength, the better we will be.”
