Bruce Wong

I am deeply honored to be here today at the National Museum of Australia for this year's Refugee Week event. On Behalf of the Foot Solutions Australia team, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, the Hon. Andrew Giles MP, for the invitation, and to Australian Department of Home Affairs for organizing this meaningful event.

This year's Refugee Week is particularly special as we had the privilege of welcoming our newest Australians. For many of us with lived experience as refugees, gaining citizenship is far more than just obtaining a passport or a new identity. It represents an opportunity to rebuild our lives, participate in civic life, and give back to this wonderful country we now call home.

Today's citizenship ceremony presided over by the Governor-General of Australia, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), marks a significant milestone in the lives of many. It symbolizes new beginnings and the promise of a brighter future.
I was also thrilled to learn about the CareerSeekers program, led by CEO Brother John Gelagin. The program's impact on individuals and communities is truly inspiring. I am particularly grateful to Sister Chantal Mousad , Senior Manager of Business Control and Monitoring at Westpac Corporation, for sharing her personal journey and the life-changing influence CareerSeekers has had on her life.

In conclusion, I would like to thank Australian Department of Home Affairs and all the dedicated team members who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this event a success. Your efforts ensure that my fellow brothers and sisters are given the chance to start anew and thrive in this beautiful country.

Refugee Communities Association of Australia RCAA Nasiba Akram-Haidari Australian Multicultural Media Centre Huseyin Huss Mustafa Oam Cr Richard Lim OAM JP - Deputy Mayor of City of Greater DandenongMayor Cr. Nicky Luo Africause Andy Tran Parsu Sharma-Luital JP

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Viv Nguyen - Victorian Multicultural Commissioner Lim's Pharmacy Australia Berhan Ahmed Fred Tayo Alale Mayor Cr Lana Formoso - Noble Park North Cr Richard Lim OAM JP - Deputy Mayor of City of Greater Dandenong Mayor Cr. Nicky Luo Australian Multicultural Media Centre Bwe Thay Ceal Tran Scanlon Inst

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I had the privilege of attending the Monash Health Foundation Donor Appreciation Event, themed "Hope Grows With You." This event honored the invaluable contributions of donors who have supported the Monash Health Foundation. It was inspiring to witness the collective impact of these community champions in fostering hope and resilience within our communities.

The evening was filled with impactful stories and graceful entertainment by Eclective Strings. It was a pleasure to reconnect with Brother Cr. Richard Lim OAM from Lim's Pharmacy and Margaret Zita OAM , both strong supporters of this important cause. I am truly humbled that Foot Solutions Australia is part of this journey.

A special thank you to Cr. Lana Formoso, Mayor of City of City of Greater Dandenong, Cr. Nicky Luo, Mayor of City Of Monash, and Bwe Thay, Deputy Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission for their dedication.

Lastly, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the medical team at Monash Health for their unwavering commitment to making a difference. Your dedication does not go unnoticed.

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What a memorable and mesmerizing evening we have had celebrating the Africa Day Australia Gala! Truly a remarkable occasion filled with joy, unity, and cultural richness at the Melbourne Town Hall, it was wonderful to catch up with friends, old and new, and share in the spirit of community and celebration.
Delicious food, incredibly talented singers and performers, the music so just so uplifting and rhythms so infectious and the dancing nothing short of spectacular. It’s evenings like this that remind us of the vibrant culture and deep connections we share.
On behalf of Foot Solution Australia I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dube (ADA President) and Brother Fred Tayo Alale and the entire Africa Day Australia executive committee members and volunteers for organising such a splendid event. Your hard work and dedication have provided us with a night to remember, a night where we could come together to celebrate our heritage and look forward to a brighter future.
Foot Solution Australia is truly proud to be a partner of this important and fabulous event. Let us continue to cherish these moments, support one another, and keep the spirit of Africa alive in our hearts. Thank you all for being here and making this evening so special.

Embarking on our last destination in Bhutan we journey to the Haa valley (3988m) and it delivered beyond expectations. The lush greenery and majestic peaks welcomed us as we ventured into this hidden gem of Bhutan. Our hearts were set on birdwatching, a passion and hobby that Sue and I share, and the Haa Valley didn't disappoint. From rare species to colourful avian wonders, Chele la Pass (3749-4100m) above sea level offers over 200 species of birds, Himalayan Monal Birds, Blood pheasant, Rufous Sibia, Ibisbill to name a few, each sighting felt like a precious gift from God’s creations.

Our stay at the Risum Resort, nestled amidst this breathtaking landscape, was nothing short of magical. Mr. Rinchen Khandu, the proprietor, greeted us with warmth and genuine hospitality, making us feel at home instantly. His dedication to preserving the beauty of the valley while offering a comfortable retreat for guests was truly commendable. The eco-friendly ethos of the resort, combined with its traditional Bhutanese architecture, created a serene haven where we could unwind after a day of exploration and enjoy the hot stone bathing experience. 😊

One of the highlights of our trip was meeting Mr. Khandu in person and learning about the rich cultural heritage of the Haa Valley. His passion for his homeland was infectious, and we were grateful for the opportunity to connect with a local who shared our love for nature and adventure. As we bid farewell to this enchanting valley, we carried with us memories of breathtaking landscapes, rare bird sightings, and the warm hospitality of Risum Resort. Our trip to Haa Valley will always hold a special place in our hearts, reminding us of the beauty and wonder that await those who dare to explore off the beaten path high above sea level.

Thank you to all the incredible, kind and generous people we met on the trip. Highly recommend all my friends to visit the beautiful land of the Thunder Dragon 🐉

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Parsu Sharma-Luital JP

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Waking up to the breathtaking view outside our hotel window in Bhutan is a moment of pure serenity and beauty. The endless mountains, the aroma of butter tea, and the genuine smiles of the locals all around create an atmosphere of bliss in the kingdom of happiness.
This year holds special significance for Sue and me, marking 40 years of a journey blessed by God's kindness and mercy. We are filled with gratitude for the four wonderful children and three adorable grandchildren that have enriched our lives beyond measure.
Our trip to Bhutan is more than just a vacation; it's a profound celebration of our enduring love and a reflection of the remarkable journey we've shared. Bhutan embodies hope, resilience, and the remarkable warmth of its people, making it a fitting destination for such a milestone in our lives.
In the coming days, we eagerly anticipate exploring this beautiful country, immersing ourselves in its natural wonders and embracing the kindness of its people. The absence of traffic lights symbolizes a mindful and considerate way of life, reflecting the harmony and tranquility that pervades Bhutan.
Here's to embracing every moment of this journey and cherishing the beauty and kindness that surround us in this remarkable land.

Beautiful Weekend celebrating our multicultural communities. Refugee Communities Association of Australia RCAA Africause Victorian Multicultural Commission Australian Multicultural Media Centre Cr Richard Lim OAM JP - Councillor for Springvale Central Ward Parsu Sharma-Luital JP HelpHimalayan YouthFoundation

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I want to acknowledge all our multicultural community for the generosity to support a cause that is so close to my heart.

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Victorian Multicultural Commission Refugee Communities Association of Australia RCAA Africause Australian Multicultural Media Centre Cr Richard Lim OAM JP - Councillor for Springvale Central Ward

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Harmony Day is here....

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Known as a birders’ paradise, Bhutan’s unique landscape with rapidly varying elevation and climatic conditions makes it relatively easier for birdwatchers to spot multiple habitats almost anywhere along the trail. With 739 species of birds, of which 26 are endangered, bird watching in Bhutan can enrich your outlook towards nature while connecting with the local communities, their culture and tradition.
📸 rsheel(IG)

It was an incredible honor to be part of the 2024 World Conference on Statelessness at Taylor’s University in Malaysia. I was invited by the conference organizing committee to share my story at the solidarity opening plenary session, and it was a profound experience. As a survivor of the Killing Fields of Cambodia and someone who has experienced statelessness, the discussions and dialogues in various conference sessions deeply resonated with my own journey.

This gathering of minds united over 400 delegates from 50 nations across the globe, comprising individuals with lived experiences, current and former stateless individuals, refugees, advocates, activists, scholars, leaders, and civil society representatives, fostering a diverse and inclusive platform. Throughout the past four days, I was part of difficult conversations in sessions that centred on acknowledging the collective injustices and systemic hurdles confronting stateless communities. These discussions provided invaluable insights into the current global landscape of stateless and displaced people.

Despite the escalating numbers of stateless and displaced people arising from ongoing conflicts worldwide, there remains a spirit of determination, hope, and optimism, filled with positive energy and resilience, needed to amplify the voices and confront the barriers faced by stateless and refugees. As a Board Director of the Refugee Communities Association of Australia, I also had the opportunity to share the impactful work we have done during COVID-19 and beyond to amplify the voice of refugees and people seeking asylum in Australia, along with Refugee Communities Association of Australia RCAA Chair Parsu Sharma-Luital JP, who has been involved in the Global Movement Against Statelessness.

I congratulate the Institute on Statelessness and Inclusion, Nationality for All, Development of Human Resources for Rural Areas Malaysia, and other supporters for orchestrating this historic conference, especially during a time when the world grapples with humanitarian disaster. Let us collectively work towards world peace and prosperity, particularly for those in dire need of protection and safety.

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Heartfelt Thanks to Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Multicultural Affairs Minister Ingrid Sitt for the power support and message, Thank you to Minister Natalie Suleyman MP and Enver Erdogan MP, Tak Meng Heng Eden Foster MP Lim's Pharmacy Victorian Multicultural Commission for joining us at the Tet Festival hosted by the Vietnamese Museum Australia .
The Premiers and Minister Sitt's powerful speech not only resonated deeply with our community but also highlighted the ongoing commitment of the Victorian government to multicultural affairs. Your dedication to inclusivity and diversity is a source of inspiration as we work towards fostering a harmonious and vibrant multicultural society in Victoria .
I am so proud that Foot Solutions Australia was given the opportunity to be part of the sponsorship and contributing to the success of the Tet Festival. I want to thank the VMA team for all the hard work and effort to creating a memorable event that fosters cultural exchange and community unity. Wishing all a Happy Tet, May the New Year brings Joy, Good Health and Prosperity for all.

I am incredibly humbled and honoured to receive the prestigious award from Africause in recognition of my contributions to the African Australian community. This acknowledgment serves as a testament to the collective efforts we have undertaken to address the challenges faced by our youth and families. Africause's unwavering commitment to education, employment, social inclusion, and mental health aligns with my passion for making a positive impact. This award not only reflects my individual journey but also symbolizes the collaborative spirit of our community. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Africause for providing a platform that empowers individuals to create meaningful change. I am inspired by the organization's dedication to fostering unity and resilience within the African Australian community, and I look forward to continuing our shared mission.
As I express my gratitude, I want to acknowledge the incredible team at Africause my Brother Berhan Ahmed and the team for their tireless work in supporting and uplifting our community. This award is a reflection of the collective commitment and collaborative spirit that defines Africause's mission. The organization's multifaceted approach to addressing challenges, including risk behaviors and homelessness, has created a positive ripple effect within our community. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a noble cause and am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we can continue making a lasting impact on the lives of African Australian youth and families, creating a brighter future for everyone. Thank you, Africause, for this honour and for being a beacon of hope and empowerment in our community.
What a pleasure to catch up with all my brothers and sisters. Cr Richard Lim OAM JP - Councillor for Springvale Central Ward Refugee Communities Association of Australia RCAA Parsu Sharma-Luital JP

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I travelled to Sydney to join the Australia Day event hosted by Refugee Communities Association of Australia RCAA . It was a privilege to meet our multicultural community members, friends and partners including Shanil Nanayakkara , Patricia Garcia AO to celebrate the recognition of our Dear Sister Nasiba Akram on receiving her Medal of Order from the Order of Australia. Australia Day is a time for reflection and discussion. For some, it’s a day celebrated with friends and family or a day where we feel recognised as citizens of this country. For others, 26 January can be a difficult day of mourning and deep pain, in particular for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We need ongoing education, connections and recognition of the rich and long history this country has to offer for every one of us.

Refugee Communities Association of Australia, an organization committed to being a genuine and independent voice for people of refugee backgrounds across our nation. Our motto, "For Refugees, with Refugees, by Refugees," reflects our dedication to ensuring that the experiences and voices of refugees are heard and valued.
I want to thank the RCAA NSW team for hosting the Australia Day for our communities to come together.
Refugee Communities Association of Australia, vision to have chapters in every state and territory, strives to be a trusted advisor and partner, fostering collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, and service providers. Yesterday event is a testament to our commitment to building bridges, breaking barriers, and promoting understanding among diverse communities with the lived experience.
We believe that by coming together, sharing our stories, and celebrating our diversity, we contribute to the strength and vibrancy of Australia. Yesterday’s event serves as a reminder that every individual, regardless of their background, has a valuable contribution to make to our great nation.

Bruce Wong (MAICD) on LinkedIn: I travelled to Sydney to join the Australia Day event hosted by Refugee… I travelled to Sydney to join the Australia Day event hosted by Refugee Communities Association of Australia. It was a privilege to meet our multicultural…

As we enter into the new year, I am reflecting on the past year with immense gratitude for the journey we have undertaken together. Through the challenges and triumphs, we have made a remarkable impact on communities near and far, a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of philanthropy.

I am proud to have been a part of Foot Solutions Australia 's efforts to give back to our communities. Your unwavering support has allowed us to reach new heights in our mission to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Every step forward is a testament to the shared commitment we hold.

Looking ahead to 2024, my aspiration is one of continued growth, resilience, and compassion. Let us deepen our impact, embracing the values of cultural diversity, inclusivity, and the transformative potential of giving back. May our stories and initiatives inspire others to join us on this journey of positive change.

In the face of uncertainty, let us remain steadfast in our dedication to community betterment and empowerment. My hope is that our collective efforts continue to foster a more compassionate, socially responsible, and harmonious world.

Thank you for being an integral part of this remarkable journey. Wishing you all a year ahead filled with hope, purpose, and the fulfilment that comes from making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

With gratitude,
Bruce Wong
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Looking forward to the TET New Year Luncheon, so proud Foot Solutions Australia is supporting this event.

Happy Karen New Year 2763. It was a pleasure to be part of the Karen New Year celebration hosted by the Australian Karen Organisation Victoria. Wishing all our Karen Community members a Happy and successful New Year. Parsu Sharma-Luital JP Refugee Communities Association of Australia RCAA Victorian Multicultural Commission