Westfield Local Heroes is a recognition and awards program that connects and enriches communities in Australia and New Zealand. The program discovers and celebrates individuals who make a positive impact to their local community and/or environment.

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

Alex Fabiani

Global Care
__Hardworking . Loving . Cheeky __

Alex Fabiani never declines anyone seeking a home-cooked meal.In 2010 he founded the Community Kitchen South Morang, which is sponsored by a local church in the Global Care network. The program provides 120 meals every Tuesday to people in need. It also gives out 40 food parcels containing basics and items for children’s school lunches, including treats.“We don’t say no to anyone,” says Alex. “Our community meals kitchen is not just for food, it’s a place for social interaction and to feel wanted. Our motto is we are all in this together.”

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Sousan Hawalla

Drummond Street Services
__Selfless . Compassionate . Honest __

Sousan Hawalla is dedicated to helping women refugees and asylum seekers to find their feet in Australia. She works at Drummond Street Services, where she established a social group for vulnerable women who are struggling to settle into their new country. The Bright Morning Women’s Group sessions provide a safe environment for the women to discuss issues they are having with cultural differences, family violence, parenting, financial matters and tenants’ rights. “The group alleviates some of the social isolation and provides a safe environment for the women to learn, ask questions and connect,” Sousan says.

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Gurinder Kaur

Khalsa Education Society
__Passionate . Selfless . Committed __

Gurinder Kaur just wants everyone to get along.She is a volunteer with the Khalsa Education Society, which visits schools and workplaces to familiarise people with turban Sikhs wear to represent equality. The program includes turban tying stalls, where non-Sikhs can try one on and get to know more about the religion. The program helps to break down stereotypes and misconceptions that sometimes lead to bullying of Sikh children, Gurinder says. “Sometimes there can be a negative association between turbans and terrorism. The program enhances respect and mutual understanding.”

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Recognising all our 2019 nominees

We congratulate all of our finalists and nominees and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community.
View all of the finalists, nominees and their organisations

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