PAYA at the Queensland Government's Multicultural Networking Night

PAYA attended the Queensland Government’s Multicultural Networking Night on Wednesday 22nd April at Queensland Parliament, joining approximately 150 community members, leaders, and representatives from across South East Queensland’s multicultural sector. The event was hosted by the Queensland Government and provided an opportunity for connection and engagement among community and organisational representatives.

The Hon. Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Multiculturalism, and PAYA’s representative, Walai Tongia.

The Premier of Queensland, the Hon. David Crisafulli MP, opened the evening with remarks acknowledging the contributions of multicultural communities and the organisations that support them. Queensland’s Minister for Multiculturalism, The Hon. Fiona Simpson MP, also addressed attendees, reinforcing the importance of ongoing collaboration and service within the sector.

PAYA was represented by Walai Tongia, Company Secretary, who had a brief opportunity to speak with the Minister. During the exchange, the Minister recognised PAYA and the support previously provided, with the interaction described as positive and encouraging.

The evening also provided an opportunity to reconnect with existing networks and establish new connections. Walai also spoke with members of Papua New Guinea Federation QLD Inc and affiliated PNG community groups, who were interested in learning more about PAYA’s youth leadership work.

PAYA continues to build on its work across Queensland, including recent support for the Mackay Youth Connect project, focused on entrepreneurship, sport, and mentorship for Pasifika and Indigenous youth.