Settlement Services International and the City of Sydney are seeking local experts to volunteer as ambassadors and support a new project to bring hope, happiness and opportunities to refugees starting a new life in Australia.
Welcome2Sydney is a volunteer-based program that aims to build a sense of belonging and welcome for refugees and asylum seekers settling in Sydney.
The project is run by Settlement Services International with a grant provided by the City, and links refugees to local volunteers and a program of social, cultural and recreational activities in their new home city.
The project is seeking at least 20 volunteers who are keen to take part and learn about the cultural background of refugees and asylum seekers settling in Sydney. The project will run until the end of 2018.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore said Sydney has been an official Refugee Welcome Zone since 2005, when Council declared its commitment to welcoming refugees and asylum seekers into our community.
"Settling in a new country can be a bewildering and lonely experience," the Lord Mayor said.
"Sydneysiders are welcoming and inclusive and can play a big role breaking down the barriers and reducing stress for refugees.
"A friendly voice to talk to or help finding their way around the city's services and programs can make all the difference.
"The City remains dedicated to upholding human rights, demonstrating compassion and enhancing cultural and religious diversity in our community.
"We're looking for volunteer ambassadors who are Sydney locals to welcome new arrivals and introduce them to programs, events, community facilities and city attractions.
"As a Refugee Welcome Zone, and a strong supporter of Refugee Week, the City is proud to proclaim that refugees are welcome here and we must do what we can to support them."
Since the Welcome2Sydney project launched in 2017, more than 130 individuals and families have taken part. They have received advice on how to access public transport into the city and take the ferry and light rail for the first time. They've also attended events such as Yabun Festival, Chinese New Year and Harmony Day.
Participants are also given free or low cost admission to many City facilities and services, including libraries and community centres. They can apply for an access card allowing reduced rate entry to the City's aquatic and fitness centres and tennis courts.
SSI CEO, Violet Roumeliotis, said: "Sharing the experience of discovering a new community by the side of someone who is established there can be really reassuring - feeling welcomed but, most importantly, knowing that you belong.
"The Welcome2Sydney project offers a unique opportunity for intercultural dialogue to occur while visiting the city.
"Volunteers and refugees get to listen and learn from one another. This will continue to promote and build our strong multicultural and diverse community."
To register your interest in the Welcome2Sydney ambassador program go to https://www.ssi.org.au/support-ssi/volunteer/volunteer-opportunities/1268-welcome2sydney-ambassador
Click here for more details on the City's support for refugees and asylum seekers. For more information on Settlement Services international go to ssi.org.au
For media inquiries or images, contact City of Sydney Senior Media Advisor Elaine Kelly. Phone 0477 362 550 or email ekelly@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au