More than 60 new Australian citizens representing 32 countries became citizens at today’s City of Perth Australia Day Citizenship and Awards ceremony.
Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas expressed his pride in welcoming Perth’s newest citizens at this morning’s ceremony held at Perth Town Hall.
“It’s an honour to formally welcome our newest citizens into our community, right here in the heart of the City,” Mr Basil Zempilas said.
“It was a privilege to see such a diverse range of people becoming Australian citizens here in our award-winning Perth Town Hall. We’re delighted that so many people have chosen to make the City their home.
“It was also our great pleasure to welcome Mayor Menna and his wife from our sister city Vasto who joined us to celebrate the occasion.”
Four Community Citizen of the Year award winners were also announced. The awards recognise the exceptional dedication and positive impact the individuals and groups have made to the community this year:
“The Community Citizen of the Year Awards celebrate the remarkable individuals and groups who have made a lasting impact on our community. The winners, along with all those who were nominated, should be proud of their achievements,” Mr Zempilas said.
“Our community thrives because of passionate individuals such as Joe, Zoe and Sandra, and the invaluable work of groups such as Read Write Now.”
Auspire – the Australia Day Council of WA, has coordinated the local Community Citizen of the Year Awards Program in collaboration with local government since 2003.
The awards celebrate individuals and organisations that have made a meaningful impact or delivered outstanding service to the local community.
The Governor of Western Australia and his wife, who are both patrons of the Auspire awards, were also in attendance to present the awards.
The complete list of award winners is provided below:
City of Perth Citizen of the Year – Joe Tuazama
Joe was recognised for his outstanding leadership and dedication to the African community in Perth. After fleeing Liberia in search of a secure life, he became actively involved in local matters through the Liberian community. As the founder of the Organisation of African Communities in WA, Joe has spent the past 12 years shaping policies to address challenges faced by migrants and minority groups. His leadership and commitment to inspiring others has empowered individuals to succeed and actively engage with their community.
City of Perth Youth Citizen of the Year – Zoe Cornelius
Zoe has made a significant impact on the local community through her unwavering dedication to volunteering and advocacy for survivors of domestic, family and sexual violence. Her contribution has been instrumental in bringing national attention to this critical issue. Zoe devotes much of her time to What Were You Wearing Australia, a not-for-profit group working to end sexual abuse, where she plays a key role in educating the public and raising awareness on this important cause.
City of Perth Senior Community Citizen of the Year – Sandra Cornell
For the past seven years, Sandra has been a committed volunteer at the Ruah Engagement Hub, offering support to homeless individuals through arts and crafts and providing art therapy to First Nations people and culturally diverse groups. Going above and beyond to ensure all members feel safe and welcome, Sandra’s passionate commitment and determination to make a positive different reflect the true spirit of community.
City of Perth’s Active Citizenship (group or event) – Read Write Now
Read, Write, Now is a program funded by the Department of Training and Workplace Development, that provides free tutoring to adults seeking to improve their reading, writing, mathematics and basic computer skills. Managed by a team of 22 volunteers who generously offer their time, energy and compassion, the program supports individuals from all walks of life. It assists those who may have missed out on key skills due to learning challenges or medical conditions, as well as those looking to enhance their abilities for better opportunities and quality of life.
Runner-up nominees were:
Citizen of the Year
Citizen of the Year – Senior
Citizen of the Year – group/event
Issued by: Joelle Ellis, Senior Media and Communications Advisor - media@cityofperth.wa.gov.au
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