Funding recipients of this year's Westfield Local Heroes have been announced.
In St George and Sutherland Shire, the program rewarded six grants to those who make a positive and important contributions to individuals, and promote social well-being within their communities.
Westfield Miranda and Hurstville rewarded three people each, who were voted by the community.
The funds will enable their affiliated organisation to thrive, and continue to celebrate the work they do in supporting those in need.
The program applies to a variety of sectors, including business, sport, government, education, sports, welfare, community and not-for-profit.
It will return in February 2020.
RECIPIENTS
Shantelle Tagg, Shimmy Shakes Dance Studio
Shantelle Tagg believes no one should be stopped from enjoying the magic of dance because of disabilities or a lack of money.
The former professional dancer whose eldest daughter is disabled, operates Shimmy Shakes Dance Studio, which keeps its fees low and welcomes dancers who cannot join regular classes.
Her inclusive classes have sign language interpreters, a high staff to student ratio and a low-sensory environment designed for children who would be overwhelmed in conventional studios.
"By creating an inclusive program, we aim to break down barriers for children with challenges," she said.
Kim Hiron, Make-A-Wish
Kim Hiron knows firsthand that granting a sick child's wish does more than create a special moment; it can help them heal.
A teacher who loves working with children and building personal connections with the families she helps, she has dedicated countless hours across many years to Make-A-Wish Australia and is a leader at the South Sydney branch.
As a former 'wish' mum herself, she has experienced the positive effect wishes can have on children and their families.
"My greatest joy is being able to help grant cherished wishes," she said.
Rob Cook, One Meal - It Makes a Difference
Rob Cook is on a mission to supply healthy hot meals to hungry people in Sutherland Shire, but his work is about more than food.
He is a founding member of the Sutherland team at One Meal - It Makes a Difference, leading a group of volunteers who provide up to 60 meals a week to people experiencing homelessness.
Food is just one aspect of the task. The volunteers also help patrons find services to get back on their feet.
"Our ultimate aim is to assist and support our patrons to return to independence," he said.
Craig Scott, 2nd Mortdale Scout Group
A widowed dad raising two sons while working full-time for Sydney Trains, Craig Scott is a scout leader and a regional special needs advisor.
Helping to make scouts inclusive for as many people as possible, one of his roles is to provide group leaders with strategies to cater for scouts with special needs.
"My aim is to provide opportunities for each scout to challenge themselves physically and intellectually, develop leadership skills and feel a sense of belonging and community," he said.
Kiro Pasovski, Macedonian Australian Welfare Association
Like many Macedonian immigrants, Kiro Pasovski arrived in Australia in the 1960s with only a suitcase.
He worked in factories and built a life for himself and his family, rising to a senior position at Rockdale Council where he was in charge of 40 parks.
He also immersed himself in the Macedonian community and has been a volunteer for eight charities.
Now in his eighties, he is proud to have been a founding member of the Macedonian Australian Welfare Association (MAWA) more than 30 years ago and is still on the board.
Meni Pefkos, Diversity Kids
Meni Pefkos lives and breathes diversity and inclusion. This passion led to the launch of her social enterprise, Diversity Kids, which provides bilingual and Indigenous support teams to schools and children's services.
They help educators to include children who are facing barriers to participation because of language, culture or disability. "We all know that feeling included and having a sense of belonging contribute to our well-being," she said.
"Children from diverse backgrounds and with diverse abilities may require additional support and a voice to enable their full inclusion and authentic participation."
