The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation are very proud to announce Mariam Koslay, Keeley Johnson, and the Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health as the inaugural winners of the Women of the West Awards.
Leading the honours as the Woman of the West, Mariam Koslay stands out as a pillar of leadership and advocacy.
A former Fairfax Media journalist and the visionary behind the documentary series ‘African Kings’, Koslay has actively contributed to the empowerment of women across Melbourne’s west through creative action and strength-based storytelling.
“Storytelling is the oldest vehicle of true expression,” she explains.
“All my projects lie in positive storytelling - a collaborative act of education through practice. Young people are craving specialised spaces where they can learn and be challenged, and this, for me, is the key to community development."
Koslay’s collaborative efforts with the Brimbank City Council and her instrumental role in organising art exhibitions highlighting youth justice are testaments to her innovative leadership.
Her dedication to empowering African diaspora youth across Melbourne’s west through school and community organizations was of particular interest to the WBCF selection committee, highlighting her keen sense of justice.
“Every time I see a young person who is inhibited in reaching their full potential, I am filled with overwhelming sadness and equal enthusiasm to support them on their journey of development.”
Keeley Johnson, the founder of Keeley’s Cause, was named the Young Woman of the West, an accolade that highlights her extraordinary ability to achieve much in a limited time.
Keeley Johnson, the founder of Keeley’s Cause, was named the Young Woman of the West, an accolade that highlights her extraordinary ability to achieve much in a limited time.
Diagnosed with Autism, Johnson faced a lack of government funding, support from autism organisations, and assistance from the NDIS - but turned this into an opportunity by establishing a nationally registered charity at the tender age of 13.
“My goal is to ensure inclusive education tailored to the individual needs of people with disabilities, drawing directly from the struggles and gaps I encountered in my own educational journey,” states Johnson.
Keeley’s Cause has become a beacon of hope, providing iPads and support to individuals with additional needs, thereby embodying the spirit of empowerment and advocacy in the disability sector and empowering them to make the most of their future.
“For young individuals aspiring to make a difference but uncertain where to begin, my advice is to embrace your passion or idea, even in the face of doubt,” she said.
The Champion for Women of the West award was bestowed upon the Multicultural Centre for Women's Health (MCWH), a national, community-based organisation dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of immigrant and refugee women since its inception in 1978.
MCWH has always ensured that it is led by and works with women from migrant and refugee backgrounds, showcasing their determination for grassroots leadership in diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“Our bilingual health education program provides in-language, outreach, and peer-led health education in over 30 languages to migrant and refugee women,” explains Arundhathi Lekshmi of the MCWH.
“Our health educators are all migrant and refugee women, many of whom have worked as educators or health workers in their home countries, and it’s their expertise that makes our program so successful in reaching over 15,000 people across Australia.”
Through celebrating the achievements of Mariam Koslay, Keeley Johnson, and the Multicultural Centre for Women's Health, the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation aims to send a reminder of the power of visionary leadership, resilience, and community engagement in driving positive change.
These winners embody the essence of innovation, collaboration, and commitment to the betterment of their communities, setting a benchmark for future leaders and organisations to aspire to.
