Tara Murray
A new exhibition at Sunshine Plaza is shining the light on stories of local people and the great work they do.
The Faces of Sunshine explores the diverse and inspiring stories of those who reside in the west.
Charles Sessay’s story is one of those that is on display.
Mr Sessay has been championing for the western Melbourne community of migrant and refugee women by effectively combating unemployment rates as chief executive of a local, volunteer-run not-for-profit, Kontiki Cultural Womens’ Empowerment.
The group was launched in 2012 and now operates out of Sunshine Plaza, with the aim of up skilling and empowering refugee and migrant women.
“The goal of Kontiki is to build the capability of women of all ages from refugee and migrant backgrounds, bring them together, get them socially connected and also give them skills,” Mr Sessay said.
Mr Sessay also works alongside the Victorian Multicultural Commission in supporting refugees and migrants throughout COVID-19.
With the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in many refugees and asylum seekers on temporary visas losing their jobs, meaning the group’s work is even more important.
The exhibition will be on display throughout August and across Sunshine Plaza’s social media.
