Dr Ashima Soni has received Brimbank’s highest honour being named Brimbank Citizen of the Year at the We Are Brimbank awards.
Held on Thursday night, the annual awards recognise the exceptional contributions, innovation and determination of individuals, organisations, volunteers, and community groups making a positive difference to the community in Brimbank.
Dr Soni was recognised as Citizen of the Year for her role as a dedicated senior clinical psychologist with more than 14 years of experience, specialising in anxiety, depression, and stress management.
Passionate about community wellbeing, Dr Soni is committed to empowering those facing family violence and perinatal challenges, particularly within culturally diverse communities.
Billy Chen was named the Young Citizen of the Year.
Chen is a member of the Victorian Youth Congress, the Western Chances STAR committee, and a former Brimbank youth council chair.
He is described as a dedicated young leader committed to improving outcomes for his local community.
“Billy is passionate about ensuring that young people in Brimbank have the same opportunities as their peers across Victoria,” Brimbank council said.
Julian Reynolds won the new mayoral appreciation award.
The award is a special commendation bestowed upon one We Are Brimbank award nominee, hand-picked by the Brimbank mayor, to be recognised for their outstanding contribution to the city and community.
Mayor Thuy Dang expressed her heartfelt gratitude for Julian’s ongoing work to keep Brimbank beautiful, clean and free of litter and rubbish, which has been especially appreciated as council and the community work together to tackle dumped rubbish.
Other award winners were Aunty Lee-Anne Clarke, who won the arts, culture or tourism award, Albion Primary School, which won the environment or sustainability award, Dance 4 All which won the sports and wellbeing award and Helping Hands Mission which won the community group of the year award 2025.
St Albans, St Albans Heights, Stevensville and Deer Park North primary schools won the community engagement award.
Cr Dang congratulated all the winners and nominees.
“We celebrate your vision, creativity, hard work, and determination,” she said.
“Brimbank is a better place to live, work and play, thanks to your efforts.
“This year’s We Are Brimbank Award winners have displayed outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to their community, our city and our environment. They have contributed to a stronger, healthier, happier, and more connected Brimbank.”
