Celebrating Multiculturalism: PAYA Recognised and Inspired
Over the past month, the Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. (PAYA) has been privileged to attend two significant celebrations of multiculturalism, each distinct in atmosphere, yet united in their message of connection, belonging and the power of community leadership.
Honoured at the Queensland Multicultural Community Reception
PAYA Co-CEO Dominic de Moura McCarthy attended the Queensland Multicultural Community Reception, hosted by Premier of Queensland Hon David Crisafulli MP.
During the reception, Dominic accepted a certificate on behalf of PAYA recognising the organisation’s significant contribution to Queensland’s multicultural community. This acknowledgment reflects the dedication of PAYA’s youth leaders across the Pacific and Australia, who work tirelessly to build bridges between cultures, foster understanding, and empower the next generation.
The reception also provided an opportunity for Dominic to connect with Hon Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Multiculturalism, and share PAYA’s vision for a thriving Pacific region led by empowered, principled, and connected young people.
For PAYA, it was a powerful reminder of the impact grassroots, youth-led initiatives have in shaping a united Queensland.
Inspired at the Multicultural Queensland Awards
Later in the month, PAYA’s Chief Events Officer Enoli Tsitsi and Chief People Officer Annclan Kuk attended the Multicultural Queensland Awards Ceremony at the Logan Entertainment Centre.
The evening began with an Aboriginal performance and vibrant cultural showcases including a Japanese ensemble. Awards were presented by the Minister for Women and Women's Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Minister for Multiculturalism Hon Fiona Simpson MP, honouring exceptional individuals and organisations making a lasting difference in their communities.
Enoli shared that she was especially moved by one award winner from Kenya who encouraged the audience to “be the rainbow to someone’s rain” — a phrase that perfectly captured the spirit of the night.
Annclan reflected on the deeper meaning of the event:
“The highlight of the night was watching people find belonging in each other. The shared experience of moving to a new country, facing the challenges, and building a life in Australia is not an easy one. But the resilience in the room was powerful.
I kept thinking about my own parents, who moved here to give me and my siblings better opportunities. I left that night with a full heart, wanting to thank them for all the behind the scenes sacrifices they made.”
Strength as Young People
Both events reinforced PAYA’s belief that empowering young people to lead with purpose can transform communities.
PAYA extends heartfelt congratulations to all those recognised at the Multicultural Awards and thanks the Queensland Government for its continued support in championing these initiatives.
Those wishing to support PAYA, a grassroots, not-for-profit organisation connecting and equipping young people across the Pacific and Australia, can contact the organisation at info@paya.org.au.
