Empowering Ethnically Indigenous Assyrians: Bridging the Opportunity Gap
By Stephanie | 25 | NSW
Living in Western Sydney as an ethnically Indigenous Assyrian presents unique challenges.
Despite the rich cultural tapestry that defines the region, there's a palpable sense of opportunity disparity. For individuals like myself, belonging to minority culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the hurdles are often higher, with fewer programs in high schools, limited employment prospects, and educational resources within our local government area.
It's crucial to redefine the current situation, nurturing an environment where individuals from all walks of society have the opportunity to flourish.
At the core of this transformation lies the necessity to bring opportunities to our suburbs, ensuring accessibility and ample chances for all to flourish. One crucial avenue is through the establishment and enhancement of cultural community centres. These centres can serve as hubs for empowerment, providing not only a sense of belonging but also acting as referral points for employment opportunities. By forging partnerships with local businesses and industries, these centres can bridge the gap between job seekers and employers, fostering economic growth within our communities.
Moreover, investing in ongoing school programs and initiatives is paramount. By introducing tailored educational programs, we can empower our youth from an early age, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate an increasingly competitive world. From workshops on biodiversity and climate to seminars on civic engagement, these initiatives can ignite a passion for learning and provide practical insights into real-world issues.
It’s also essential to facilitate avenues for students to build meaningful connections and contacts. Forums and networking events can serve as platforms for skill development and relationship building. By bringing together local leaders, mentors, and professionals, we can expose our youth to diverse perspectives and opportunities, nurturing a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Additionally, empowering our community means empowering our voices. This involves educating individuals on how to liaise effectively with local and federal parliamentarians, advocating for policies and initiatives that reflect our needs and aspirations. By demystifying the political process and providing training on effective lobbying techniques, we can amplify our collective voice and drive meaningful change. Central to this endeavour is the recognition and addressing of social issues that disproportionately affect our communities.
We must come together as a collective force for positive change. Through grassroots organising and coalition building, we can amplify our impact and create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
The views expressed in AYAC’S youth blog are personal and and not an endorsement of AYAC; we value and encourage the diverse perspectives of young people.