Celebrations marking the start of Harmony Week in Western Australia began with the presentation of the 2026 Western Australian Multicultural Awards, where individuals and organisations working across community, sport, arts and public service were recognised for their contributions to culturally diverse communities across the state.
The awards ceremony brought together community leaders, government representatives and organisations involved in multicultural programs, highlighting work that supports inclusion and access to services for people from varied cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
Twelve recipients were recognised across categories ranging from community leadership and youth engagement to public sector work and business involvement.
Among those acknowledged was Rodrigues Niyongere, a para footballer originally from East Africa who has spent time mentoring young people through sport and community initiatives. His work with youth groups has focused on encouraging participation, confidence and community connection through football programs.
Inspector Don Emanuel Smith of the Western Australia Police Force was also recognised for assisting new migrants as they adjust to life in Australia. His work has involved helping families navigate everyday systems such as health services, housing support and local community networks.
The awards ceremony also recognised contributions across several sectors. Michael Elwan received the Outstanding Individual Achievement Award, while Rakhi Bose was named Artist of the Year. Sportsperson of the Year went to Jhaniele Fowler Nembhard, an internationally recognised netball player who has built a strong following in Western Australia through her performance and community engagement.
Community organisations featured prominently among the winners. The Gosnells Chinese Association received recognition for its work supporting cultural connection and social activities within the local community. The Multicultural Services Centre of WA was honoured for programs assisting newly arrived migrants with settlement support and community access.
Culture Care WA Inc received the award for general community service organisation, acknowledging its work supporting people from diverse cultural backgrounds through health and social programs.
Local government initiatives were also highlighted. The City of Cockburn received the Local Government Award for programs supporting multicultural engagement and community participation across the municipality.
Within the public sector, the Department of Communities received the Premier’s Public Sector Award for services designed to support culturally and linguistically diverse residents.
The Business Award went to Fortescue, recognising its initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and participation across its workforce and community programs.
Two additional honours recognised long standing contributions to community leadership. Inspector Don Emanuel Smith received the Sir Ronald Wilson Leadership Award, while Wendy Rose was presented with the Laksiri Jayasuriya Lifetime Community Service Award.
The awards marked the beginning of Harmony Week activities across Western Australia, which run from 15 to 21 March each year. The program encourages residents to explore the cultural, religious and linguistic diversity present across the state through community events and public discussions.
Events planned throughout the week include arts projects, street parades, markets, sporting activities, children’s programs and educational events organised by local governments and community groups.
Regional centres are also participating, with activities planned in Geraldton, Katanning, Karratha and Kalgoorlie.
The Western Australian Government has allocated $67,100 to support Harmony Week events across regional areas, helping local councils, community associations and service organisations deliver activities aimed at building connection among residents.
Western Australia’s Minister for Multicultural Interests, Tony Buti said the growing number of nominations each year reflects the active role communities play in shaping the state’s multicultural life.
He said the awards provide an opportunity to recognise people and organisations that work quietly behind the scenes to support community participation and cultural understanding.
Harmony Week concludes on 21 March, which coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination recognised by the United Nations. The day invites reflection on discrimination and encourages communities to consider ways to support fairness and respect.
Organisers say the awards and the week of events offer a moment to acknowledge the people who contribute to building connections across communities while encouraging ongoing conversations about inclusion and equal participation across Western Australia.
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