15/12/00
The inspirational stories of people working in one of the world’s most diverse workplaces can be found in a new publication called Voices of Diversity.
Voices of Diversity traces the journeys of 14 migrants now working in Western Australia’s public sector and is a joint project of the Office of Citizenship and Multicultural Interests and the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity.
Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Rob Johnson said Voices of Diversity provided a unique insight into the experiences of migrants in the workplace.
“Many State public sector employees were born overseas and their contributions highlight the importance of this sector as an equal opportunity employer able to support difference and promote diverse management practices,” Mr Johnson said.
“Specifically, these authors provide inspiration for dealing with obstacles, relay positive experiences and offer suggestions to new recruits who may find themselves in similar positions.”
One of the employees, Beldon’s Ruth Lopez, is a local area co-ordinator for the Disability Services Commission.
“In my country, there is a popular saying that, ‘anyone who does not look back at where she has come from, will never get to where she wants to go’,” she said.
“My very first paid job in Australia, which was at the Northern Suburbs Migrant Resource Centre, enabled me to help newly arrived migrants and refugees from diverse backgrounds in their resettlement in their new country.
“Getting this job meant a lot as both my husband and I were getting recognised and accepted as professionals who have something to contribute to Australian society.”
In her current role, Ms Lopez – originally from the Philippines - supports people with disabilities and their families achieve a better quality of life.
“In my current work, community development experience is highly valued, providing a reaffirmation not just of my professional side but of my whole person. I am tirelessly striving for inclusion while celebrating diversity,” she said.
Voices of Diversity features the stories of migrants from Canada, China, Egypt, India, Malaysia, Philippines, Portugal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Venezuela and Vietnam.
Copies are available from State Government agency libraries or by calling Public Affairs at the Office of Citizenship and Multicultural Interests on 9426 8690.
Media contact: Fran Hodge (08) 9215 4800
