Brimbank local and disability advocate, Despina Havelas, chats to Hannah Hammoud about her connection to the community.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
I am a passionate disability advocate and community member. I am a mother of two young adults and my husband, Chris, is a local scrapper. I love meeting and getting to know what’s happening in my local community. I am also a passionate carer that is fortunate to improve the quality of life for others in my community. I have worked with many community groups and individuals to advance the rights of people with a disabilities and carers. Human rights matter.
What is your connection to Brimbank?
My husband is local to Brimbank growing up and I now call Brimbank my home for nearly 25 years. I’m lucky to connect with so many local community members. I was the founder of an autism group for over 10 years, called Autism Angels.
What do you like about where you live?
I like the walking paths near my home. Walking and meeting other locals that live in my area. Health and fitness is important to help us all feel connected. I love the new Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I would love to see more local youth programs that connects members of our community to mentor our youth. I was disappointed to find out that there is no room for a carers hub within the Brimbank Aquatic Centre. Carers give so much to others and this space would have made a difference to many local carers.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
The coffee shop, Taylor Café at Keilor Downs Plaza. The food is tasty and the bonus is the friendly staff and service you get. It also convenient when a coffee shop is open earlier than the standard 9am opening hours. You get to fit more in your day.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?
That I was a designer/ dressmaker in bridal wear in my earlier years. I still have strong connection with art.
What change do you hope to create as a local disability advocate?
To continue to connect more families to more local programs and to help them access local services for convenience. Isolation is terrible and with the increase in mental health in our community we need to be more caring and compassionate for each other. That there is always hope and we all can be compassionate.
