Dr Ashraf Abdelbaky is an educator, researcher, and community leader with a PhD in English. He has extensive experience teaching English and Arabic in universities, TAFE and schools.

Since 2021, Ashraf has led CALD CONNECT in delivering programs that support refugees, migrants, and CALD youth, including securing multiple government and council grants for high-impact community events and projects.

His academic background combined with hands-on community work makes him uniquely positioned to bridge cultural divides and advocate for inclusive policies.

Mohamed Elosmany is a pharmacist and respected community advocate in Newcastle. He has been deeply engaged in grassroots initiatives that promote social justice, cultural understanding, and inclusion.

Mohamed's leadership extends beyond professional practice — he has been actively involved in advocacy and humanitarian causes, including participating in significant community campaigns that amplify the voices of vulnerable communities.

His healthcare background and community activism provide valuable insights into the health and wellbeing challenges faced by CALD communities.

Dr Suzan Makhloof is a lecturer in linguistics and cross-cultural communication, teaching English and communication to students from diverse backgrounds. Her academic expertise is complemented by extensive community engagement.

Dr Suzan has been an active participant in numerous community initiatives, including the Newcastle Multicultural Youth Conference, capacity building training for Arab youth, and various community consultations.

She brings invaluable expertise in developing culturally responsive programs that meet the specific needs of CALD communities, particularly in education and youth development.

Dongmei Zhang is a dedicated leader in Newcastle's multicultural sector. Originally from China, she brings over 20 years of experience supporting diverse communities, with a particular focus on assisting Chinese-speaking residents.

In her previous role with Northern Settlement Services' Chinese Social Support Program, Dongmei organised and facilitated regular groups and activities across the Hunter region, helping seniors and new migrants to build connections, access services, and feel a sense of belonging.

As a professional interpreter, she provides clear and culturally sensitive communication between service providers and community members, bridging language gaps and empowering people to participate fully in Australian society. CALD CONNECT Foundation will greatly benefit from Dongmei's extensive expertise and long-standing commitment to community service.

Abdelmen Swan is a highly influential member of the multicultural community in Newcastle. Through his role as a Job Placement Consultant, he has supported countless jobseekers from refugee and migrant backgrounds, helping them secure employment and preparing them to succeed in the workplace.

Beyond his professional contributions, Abdelmen has been an active volunteer, generously offering his time and skills to a variety of community events and initiatives. Since the establishment of CALD CONNECT in 2021, he has served as a trusted advisor, consistently providing guidance and support to advance the organisation's mission.

Abdelmen remains committed to using his expertise and experience to serve the community and to help CALD CONNECT Foundation create meaningful pathways for culturally and linguistically diverse individuals to thrive.

Dr. Muhammad Alqudah is a Lecturer in Nursing at the University of Newcastle, with more than 20 years of clinical experience in Australia and overseas. His research focuses on health education, the development of education programs, health literacy, and promoting health literacy among culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.

Dr. Alqudah believes education is a powerful tool to improve knowledge, shift attitudes and beliefs, and build confidence. He emphasises creating educational materials that are accessible, engaging, and tailored to varying levels of health literacy.

Over the past eight years, he has delivered numerous workshops for CALD communities in Newcastle on mental health and other health issues. Since the establishment of CALD CONNECT, Dr. Alqudah has been an active supporter, contributing his expertise and ongoing commitment to the organisation's mission.

Hazratullah Kharoti, originally from Afghanistan, is an electrical engineering student who has been actively engaged in both academic and community life since moving to Newcastle four years ago.

As the Human Culture Officer at The University of Newcastle, he is passionate about fostering diversity, inclusion, and cultural understanding across the campus. He also serves as the Head of Sports for the Afghan Culture Association, where he promotes Afghan culture through sports, strengthens community connections, and creates opportunities for engagement.

Balancing his professional roles with his studies, Hazratullah is committed to making a positive impact within Newcastle's vibrant multicultural society.

Lillian (Nkundabantu Liliane Maombi) is a dedicated community leader who came to Australia as a refugee from the war in Congo. Despite the challenges of resettlement, she has built a new life for herself and her children through resilience, determination, and strong connections.

Lillian is widely respected for her work with newly arrived refugees and serves as a Student Support Officer at Callaghan College Waratah High School, where she provides guidance and encouragement to young people from diverse backgrounds.

As a Congolese women's representative, she plays an important role in empowering others and addressing community needs. Committed to education, entrepreneurship, and service, Lillian continues to inspire those around her and make a meaningful impact in Newcastle and beyond.

Rigzin Wangmo, originally from Tibet, is a bilingual professional with a strong background in law, community engagement, and education support. She currently works as a Supporter and Trainers Administrator at MAX RTO, a FICT facilitator with STARTTS, and a sessional Tibetan interpreter with Hunter New England Refugee Health.

Rigzin previously served as Secretary of the Tibetan Community for four years, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to cultural preservation and community wellbeing. She holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Law from overseas, alongside an Individual Care Worker's Certificate and an English for Further Study qualification in Australia.

For the past four years, Rigzin has been an active member of CALD CONNECT, where she continues to provide valuable support to the multicultural community in Newcastle.