Meet our 2024 winners

Professional Excellence Award 2024

Originally from Sierra Leone, Margaret is a fashion designer and stylist from Sydney. She is founder of the brand Dolley’s Couture known for high end wedding and formal dresses with feminine signature style. She has attend Europe biggest fashion show in Berlin and has been showcasing her designs on runways with top designers 

Legendary Award 2024

Lovemore N'dou is a South African-Australian solicitor and former professional boxer (1993 to 2012). He is an entrepreneur, book author and now has his eyes into South African politics. Lovemore is also known for his pro bono legal services to the African Australian community in NSW.

Entrepreneurship Award 2024

Tracy is a seasoned credentialed Mental Health Nurse and founder of Tabvuma Mental Health that delivers culturally responsive support and therapy. She is also a Board Director for the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses where she promotes, supports and advocates on behalf of mental health nurses nationally.  

Inspiration Award 2024

Born and raised in Freetown capital of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Alhaji is the CEO of Sydney based Lajman Shipping & Co. His business helps ship goods to Freetown at a low cost for members of his community for the last decade. He is also an established member of the wider African Australian community in NSW.

Entrepreneurship Award 2024

Vellinia was born and raised in Uganda. She is a dedicated psychiatric nurse with years of experience in the health industry. She is an founder of Streams Safaris and Kesa Streams that facilitate unforgettable African safari experiences for Australians who seek to explore the wonders of Africa.  

Champion Award 2024

Originally from Nigeria, Levi is a Senior Lecturer, and Academic Lead Rural Health. He is the 2024 Joint winner of the Western NSW Research Academic Leader Mentorship award by the American Academy of Optometry at Indianapolis. Levi has completed his PhD in Australia and is a pivotal member of the community.

Legendary Award 2024

Gloria is a transformative organisational justice specialist, recognised for innovative workplace inclusion approaches that empower employees and future-ready businesses. Gloria is a bestselling Author of Inclusive Teams & Workplaces: Everyone Wins!! A book she wrote to assist leaders in becoming aware of unique barriers 

Sponsorship Award 2024

Multicultural Consulting Services (MCS) is a leading organisation for all cultural diversity issues responding to community needs and opportunities. The organisation provides tailored services in recruitment, labour hire, training, mentoring, cultural awareness, and community engagement to help individuals and businesses. 

Friend of Africa Award 2024

Born and raised in the Bankstown area of Sydney, Kylie is one of the longest supporting members of the African community in NSW, with a friendship that spans over 3 decades. She is known for supporting many events within the African Australian community and sponsoring charities in Africa. 

Champion Award 2024

Ubah is a Somali born seasoned, accredited leadership coach with a commerce degree. She specialises in coaching financial services to leaders in regulatory compliance, productivity, and people management. She supports and coaches teams in Australia’s largest banks. 

Community Leadership Award 2024

Born in Ghana, Elvis is a Youth and Community Development Officer at Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency (MECA). He boasts of a Postgraduate Certificate in Human Services from Charles Sturt University and is a member of the Project Management Institute, Sydney. 

Legendary Award 2024

Osamagbe Promise Edugie, widely known as Currency Baba, stands as a trailblazer in the Australian Afro-beats music scene. Emerging in 2016 with his debut single ‘Testimony,’ Currency Baba has since captivated audiences, breaking boundaries with hits like ‘Me and You,’ which secured a spot on Apple Music’s Top 100.

Community Engagement Award 2024

Born and raised in Kenya, Maureen is a dedicated professional with a Bachelor degree and a Diploma in Community Services. Maureen has played a vital role in community initiatives and volunteer work like helping in organising youth programs, leading workshops, and mentoring new practitioners.

Entrepreneurship Award 2024

Born and raised in Sierra Leone, Mariatu is a nurse and midwife with a Bachelor in Nursing degree from University of Technology Sydney. She also boasts of a postgraduate in Midwifery from the University of Western Sydney. Mariatu owns Samtimah & Co, a grocery store that sells African food.

Community Engagement Award 2024

Originally from Kenya, Joshau is a disability support worker who has put aside his savings to establish a local kitchen with a specialty in Kenyan foods. His business Utamaduni Kitchen has brought the Kenyan community together and fostered networking over the years.

Inspiration Award  2024

Fatmata is a dedicated member of the Australian Labor Party. She is a graduate of the Pathways to Politics Program for Women at the University of New South Wales. She is also into politics and was a candidate in the September 2024 local council election in the City of Cessnock NSW.

Appreciation Medal 2024

Kenyan born Gladys was a chief guest at the 2024 Awards event. She is the President of the East African Community Canberra (EACC). She is also a community champion known for bringing Africans together through events and projects and also fostering networking.

Academic Excellence Award 2024

Born and raised in Uganda, Sarah is a lecturer and academic manager. She is known for mentorship to support students and community members. Sarah has published several research outputs, engaged in research projects and contributed to sharing the African culture/identity by writing children’s books.

Volunteer Award 2024

David is the technical backbone of MECA’s community engagement events, ensuring flawless management of audio-visual systems, from workshops to cultural festivals. His expertise enhances the professionalism and impact of MECA’s initiatives.

Volunteer Award 2024

Frank dedicates his time to providing free driving lessons and essential skills for independence and employability for disadvantaged youth in the Mount Druitt area. Frank also instils confidence and a sense of responsibility in his learners, helping them overcome barriers to success.

Professional Excellence Award 2023

With over 2 decades of customer service experience within the APS and private sector of Australia, Hawanatu has also worked for the Australian Taxation Office, Centrelink, CommonWealth Bank, and Westpac. She is employed by Virgin Australia and co-owns NAIJA JALLOF Authentic West African Cuisine restaurant.

Entrepreneurship Award 2023

Born and raised in Sierra Leone, Adama is the founder of Damako Events that organises various small and big events in the African community.  Adama has Bachelors in Business and Commerce from Western Sydney University. She has a national accreditation in Professional Wedding Planning, Styling and Design

Entrepreneurship Award 2023

Fatmata is the brain behind Sylla Cleaning Services, a booming business that is also providing employment to African Australians in NSW. From her humble beginning as a cleaner, her business has grown steadily over the years with a large commercial and NDIS clientele.

Entrepreneurship Award 2023

A Ghanaian born teacher, Naomi  is the Director and Founder of Wholehearted Care Support Services that support children with autism and other disabilities in NSW. She has a double master’s in special education and education leadership from the University of NSW.

Champion Award 2023

Angela is a Nigerian born business mogul and a pacesetter in fashion and styles. She is is the CEO of Bag`s World and Clothing lines in Australia. A serial entrepreneur with many shops in different locations in Australia, she also provides help in Real Estate investment to members of the African Australian community. 

Champion Award 2023

A Passionate community advocate Oliver is an International Project and Event Management Practitioner and works in the NSW Government Department of Communities and Justice. He holds a double master’s degree in international project planning and Event Management. He is a gospel musician too.

Professional Excellence Award 2024

Born in Sierra Leone, Markmuday is a celebrated professional singer, songwriter and record producer working with various record labels and other Afro Beat artists like Master Craft, solid star and Simi from Nigeria. He has also collaborated with Tanzania superstar Harmonize.

Academic Excellence Award 2024

Jane was born and raised in Kenya. She is a trained teacher and a qualified accountant. She also holds a Postgraduate Certificate In Research Methods, a Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting and Corporate Governance from Macquarie University.   

Inspiration Award 2024

Samuel is an academician with a Bachelors degree in Logistics and Maritime Management. He is the Founder of Believe This-ability and Co- founder of Base Disability based in Sydney. Samuel has played a pivotal role in his community to support the underprivileged and also provided employment to new arrivals. 

Young Talent Award 2024

Tokyo Vendetta also known as Australia’s ‘Queen of Rap’ is a South African, Australian-born rapper and songwriter, daughter to three-times two-division boxing world champion, turned lawyer, author and politician, Lovemore Ndou. Tokyo received co-signs from fellow female rap legend Lauryn Hill.

Inspiration Award 2024

Maaz is a driven and dedicated professional, who embodies integrity, reliability, and a passion for excellence in the real estate industry. He graduated at the International College of Management in Sydney and has a Master of Commerce from the University of Sydney.

Academic Excellence Award 2024

Michelle is a research scientist at the University of New South Wales Business School working at the forefront of shaping the future of healthcare and retirement policy. She graduated from the University of New South Wales with a PhD in Actuarial Studies and also has a Bachelors in Biomedical Engineering from Harvard University.

Champion Award 2024

Born and raised in Siera Leone, Christopher is one of the most hardworking and inspiring African Australian in the community. His ‘never give up’ spirit has seen him excel in all his professional works that cuts across various sectors. He is also a community champion who loves engaging and motivating others positively.

Sponsorship Award 2024

Multicultural NSW is a respected and well-established partner to multicultural communities across NSW. The agency is all about connecting people and communities through supporting projects, events and services. With more than 40 years’ experience, Multicultural NSW has a deep understanding community.

Friend of Africa Award 2024

An Italian Australian with a huge African heart, Mary is also a mum to 2 children of Ghanaian heritage. For many years, Mary has supported Sydney's African community by way of assisting at music events, taking supporting roles in movies and hosting some international African artists that have toured Sydney.

Professional Excellence Award 2024

Sheldon is a highly skilled and accomplished healthcare professional with experience in the healthcare industry. Originally from Kenya, Sheldon has excelled in clinical leadership roles across aged care and acute care settings. He has a Bachelor of Nursing and a Graduate Certificate in Dementia Care.

Entrepreneurship Award 2024

Naomy is a Kenyan-born entrepreneur, founder and director of Tarrays Healthcare Staffing in NSW. She has a Bachelor of Nursing and Masters degree in Dementia Care and boasts of extensive experience as an aged care manager. She is a Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Consultant, and Care Manager  

Champion Award 2024

Naomi is the founder and CEO of Whole-hearted Care and Support Services that provides disability support services in Sydney. She is also dedicated to helping women across the world through her initiatives, promoting women empowerment and education and self-esteem. 

Professional Excellence Award 2024

Kwame is a Ghanaian born raised in Sydney. He is an Afrobeat, Reggae, Dancehall Artist better known as the Talk Talk hitmaker. He has established himself as a household name within and beyond the afrobeats community in Australia. Kwame has released his first studio album titled Play Boy with 12 incredible songs.

Academic Excellence Award 2024

The Nigeria-born is an Associate Professor at Western Sydney University with over 250 articles in high-impact journals. Kingsley has mentored young researchers and facilitated research growth, including graduating 25 PhD students from African and Asian countries. He is an Honorary Professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal 

Appreciation Medal 2024

Sesay goes above and beyound his various community roles in getting new and emerging communities in touch with Australian service organisations. He is founder of TEAM Africa, an AFL community ambassador, and a former board member of the Horn of Africa Community Network. 

Appreciation Medal 2024

Born in Uganda, Paul is one of the powerful brains and forces behind the success of Celebration of African Australians NSW. For over a decade, Paul has offered his time and other resources in ensuring success at all events and projects organised by the organisation. 

Inspiration Award 2024

Born in Sierra Leone, Esther is an established resident in the Blacktown suburb of NSW. She is host MC to many African Australians weddings, events and other cultural festivals. She is the powerful voice behind the hosting of the AWOL Awards since 2015. 

Professional Excellence Award 2024

Born in Kenya, Hillan is an accomplished author (The Numen of Banda) with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Environmental Geography. He boasts a Masters in Business Administration from Central Queensland University, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Policy and Governance (QUT).

Professional Excellence Award 2024

Originally from Cameroon, Bill holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, a Diploma in Financial Planning, a Diploma of Project Management, and he holds a Certified Associate in Project Management. He serves as the Director of Shoebox Books Penrith, and Vice President of the Cameroon Community. 

Champion Award 2024

Driven by a passion for financial inclusion and collaborative finance, Brighton is a Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur. He boasts a Bachelor of Computer and Network Security and Bachelor of Laws. He is founder of RoundTable, a ground-breaking mobile app that empowers migrants to build better saving habits.

Community Engagement Award 2024

Francis is the current president for United Kenyans in Australia Cultural Association and serves in the Kenyan in New South Wales leadership council as secretary general. He is also the Director at Openmaps Education Agency - a visa, education and migration consultancy.

Entrepreneurship Award 2023

Originally from South Sudan, Akon (represented) runs a successful childcare and cleaning service company and a restaurant in Sydney. The businesses have provided employment for new arrivals from South Sudan. Akon is also the president of the South Sudanese Community Association of NSW.

Entrepreneurship Award 2023

Gracy boasts of Afro Caribbean roots although she was born and raised in France. She is a beautician by trade who’s dream to start her own business was realised in 2022 when she established Le Spa Orla. She has graduated in Hospitality Management.

Professional Excellence Award 2023

Nora is a Precise Quality Assurance Manager proficient in all QA operations, policies and procedures. She has experience in hiring and developing individual team members. Committed to thoroughly assessing product quality and manufacturing processes to achieve excellent results and customer satisfaction.

Champion Award 2023

Nettie is a vibrant Liberian born. She competed and won the Miss Africa Canberra title in 2018. She is heavily involved in working with youths and currently runs an NGO in West Africa Liberia where she provides accommodation and pay fees for vulnerable children.

Legendary Award 2024

Suzan is a force to be reckoned with in the creative world. Born in Uganda, she has established herself as an actress, author, and renowned fashion designer. From her humble beginnings to her breakthrough in the fashion and entertainment industries, Suzan's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Young Talent Award 2024

Born and raised in Western Sydney to Nigerian and Aboriginal parents, Tunde is a celebrated rapper in Australia. His rise to fame has seen him on New York Times Square billboard and has performed for some of hip-hops legends. Tunde has been an inspiration to the youth of Western Sydney. 

Academic Excellence Award 2024

Tony (represented) completed his PhD in Sociology & Anthropology at the University of Newcastle. He completed his Masters degree in Sociology at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa and he is a Lecturer in Sydney. He is an Independent social researcher and a research associate with the University of Johannesburg. 

Inspiration Award 2024

Mohamed is a revelation to many in the African Australian community. Born in the Horn of Africa small nation of Somalia, he has transformed his life in Australia from that little boy who could not speak a single word in English to a youth and refugee advocate. He was the first black African to run for leadership in Cumberland. 

Youth Empowerment Award 2024

Rose is an Ethiopian Australian with Muslim identity studying a Bachelor of Law at Western Sydney University. She engages in advocacy, community development, and youth empowerment. She was President of the African Australian Youth Collective at Western Sydney University and works with AAAC. 

Champion Award 2024

Aristus is a PhD lecturer at the University of Technology Sydney. He holds Masters and Bachelors degrees from the prestigious University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN). Aristus spearheaded the reactivation of a defunct UTS African Society. He has also continued to mentor and encourage African students.

Influencer Award 2024

Feven has used her social media platforms to empower and inform diverse audiences in the wider community. Her work has significantly influenced public discourse, offering accessible, reliable information that promotes informed decision-making and also raises awareness. 

Sponsorship Award 2024

Glow Healthcare Agency is founded and managed by African Australians providing allied health services, disability support services  and aged care services among others. Since its founding, the agency has been adding value to the community by providing quality services tailored to meet clients’ individual needs.  

Appreciation Medal 2024

Born and bred in Sydney, Australia to Ugandan and Tanzanian parents, Whitney is a force to reckon when it comes to organising our big events. Her dedication and passion have seen the organisation host many annual events over the last 10 years. Whitney is currently studying in Sydney

Influencer Award 2024

Alice (Yatta) is a passionate traveller, fashionist and influencer dedicated to sharing her journey and inspiring others through different platforms. She is also queen of the mic as an established Master of Ceremony and a program organiser in her community and beyond.

Professional Excellence Award 2024

Moris is a Ugandan born Polymath Consultant with experience in International Chaplaincy Services. He is the founder of "Kwetu Projects" a unique approach to Positive Transformative Dynamics promoting harmony with  African values. He is a member  of Refugees Advocacy Committee Network.

Community Leadership Award 2024

Born and bred in Kenya, Mathew is the current Chair of the Kenya Community in NSW with a pivotal role of bringing Kenyans together and creating networks with other community groups. He is also a social worker and a writer specializing in articles and blogs that help his community.

Appreciation Medal 2024

Born in Uganda's capital city, Kampal, Maureen is one of the driving forces of Celebration of African Australians over the years. With a Bachelors and Masters in Pharmacy, Maureen has volunteered her time to support various events and projects run by the organisation. 

Appreciation Medal 2024

Lynda was a chief guest at the 2024 Awards Dinner. She member for Auburn in the Labour Party. She has served in the Australia Army reserve and in the Australian Regular Army, a member of the second group of women to train at Kapooka in NSW. 

Community Engagement Award 2024

Group La Faya is a community organisation founded by Jean Daniels and Jamino from the island of Mauritius. Jean and Jamino use their group to showcase the Sega cultural dance and music to the Australian community in Sydney for the last 15 years. They perform at festivals, private events and do school workshops. 

Champion Award 2024

Sheila is a Ugandan born medical doctor and has started an initiative with colleagues called Africa Health that raises health awareness among Africans in Australia, improves health outcomes and provide a networking platform for African medical practitioners.

Young Talent Award 2024

Originally from Freetown, Sierra Leone, Kanewa (represented) has made exceptional achievements in athletics for his age. At 14 years only, he holds the number 1 position for 100m sprint for the Under 14s and boasts a world ranking of 7th in the 200m and remains ranked 1st in the 200m race in Australia . 

Community Engagement Award 2024

AWOL Australia is a charity organisation based in Sydney and aims at creating pathways for community development in Sierra Leone and within Australia. The organisation is currently working on projects to increase awareness among Sierra Leonean-Australians about the importance of social and economic growth in Sierra Leone.

Appreciation Medal 2024

Known for her dedication and passion to serve, Jennifer has played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of events and projects organised by Celebration of African Australians NSW. She is also a business owner, providing employment to members of the African community. She has a Masters in Nursing.

Volunteer Award 2024

Navneet has been a cornerstone of MECA’s youth mentorship programs, tirelessly guiding young people in the Mount Druitt area through one-on-one mentoring and group sessions. Her work fosters personal growth and resilience among youth.

Professional Excellence Award 2023

Liberty, is a seasoned cybersecurity professional from Zimbabwe with a background in accounting and finance. Beyond his technical skills, Liberty is deeply passionate about mentoring young professionals, generously sharing his valuable experiences and career journey to inspire aspiring individuals in the cybersecurity domain.

Entrepreneurship Award 2023

Ashoup is the founder of Kowaj Australia Pty Ltd. Through her leadership, the organisation has won multiple awards including Victorian Multicultural Awards for excellence 2022. Ashoup is also the founder of Kowanj Africa, an NGO in Kenya, South & North Sudan and Egypt.

Entrepreneurship Award 2023

Sierra Leone born Margaret is a fashion designer and stylist. She owns Dolley’s Couture known for high-end wedding and formal dresses with feminine signature styles. She has attend the famous Mercedes Benz fashion week in Berlin and showcased at Sydney's Raw Australian and also Melbourne fashion week.

Professional Excellence Award 2023

Suzan is a force to be reckoned with in the creative world. Born in Uganda, she has established herself as an actress, author, and renowned fashion designer. From her humble beginnings to her breakthrough in the fashion and entertainment industries, Suzan's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Champion Award 2023

Gloria is the CEO of EVERYDAY INCLUSION. She is also a bestselling Author of Inclusive Teams & Workplaces: Everyone Wins!! And the founder of Voice Everyday Racism. Gloria’s research specialises in Social Analysis on Race, Black Identity and Anti-racism.