Volunteers sought for cultural program

THE call is out for people to join the municipality’s intercultural ambassador program.

Trialled between 2019 and 2021, the program will now become a permanent fixture in the City of Greater Bendigo.

Community partnerships manager with the City, Andie West, said the municipality was seeking people of different cultural backgrounds to help provide access and support at events and activities.

“We are looking for people aged over 18 who are passionate about inclusion, diversity and social cohesion and want to make a positive contribution by sharing their culture with others,” she said.

“No prior experience is required to become an intercultural ambassador, just the enthusiasm and passion to support and promote cultural diversity and inclusion.

“The program aims to build the capacity and confidence of ambassadors, providing opportunity for growth, learning and leadership.”

Born out of the City’s community vision, the intercultural ambassador program aims to help make the region welcoming to all.

Ms West said volunteers were being sought to take part in sharing their culture along with building connections and diversity.

“The ambassadors are likely to be involved in hosting and supporting events relevant to their culture so they will need to have good social skills, a friendly welcoming nature, good communication and a willingness to share their culture with others,” she said.

“Some events we would value their involvement in include Reconciliation Week, Harmony Day, Refugee Week and Cultural Diversity Week, and other activities that contribute to inclusion policy for the City.

“The ambassadors will have a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, share their culture, inform policy and connect and network with others.

“They will all undertake a flexible leadership training program and an induction program which includes an explanation of the City’s policies and processes.”

Applications to join the Greater Bendigo intercultural ambassador program are open until 5pm on Monday, 7 November. For more information visit the City’s website.