Racist slur inspires teen to give back to community

Settlement Services International
Determined. Thoughtful. Caring

When Bassam Maaliki was thirteen years old, bigoted bullies at his school accused him of being a terrorist and told him to go back to where he came from.

That and other racist experiences inspired the Australian-born Muslim to campaign for change in his community and at school.

“It motivated me to do more,” says Bassam, who is now sixteen and is dedicated to helping refugees and other migrants feel welcome in Australia.

One of the first things he did was join the YMCA Youth Parliament, where young people come together and debate controversial issues. He also speaks at school harmony days and other events and is an Australian Youth Ambassador for Save the Children.

Among Bassam’s many innovations is a #uBelong badge and key that he developed for people to wear in solidarity with refugees, migrants, people who feel alone, those that feel unheard and those who feel helpless.

He also organised a #uBelong flash-mob choir in Sydney, which was an emotional event attended by eight hundred people.

He feels good to be voted a Westfield Local Hero. “I am happy people believe in what I am doing about a real issue,” says Bassam, who in 2018 was named Youth Parliament Advocate of the Year and also won the NSW Premier’s Youth Medal.

“I believe a sense of belonging and equality of opportunity is necessary for social cohesion,” says Bassam.

“My parents have supported and motivated me to do this type of work in the community and Settlement Services International has helped me to develop my work. I would like to acknowledge the impact they have had on my life,” says Bassam, who has raised thousands of dollars for good causes.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation.

SSI will use the grant awarded in Bassam’s honour to expand the #uBelong initiative, including the development of a website and app for young people to interact.

“It will offer resources for young people, including volunteering opportunities and social justice forums,” says Bassam.

__For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here. __