Sam Atukorala’s work with the Greater Shepparton community has been nominated for a Victorian Community Achievement Award. But he says everything he has achieved has been with the help of other community members. “There’s nothing in this world you can do by yourself,” Mr Atukorala said.
Since then, he has become well-known for his involvement in many community organisations and initiatives, including as project officer for the successful Regional Youth Leadership Participation Program with the Ethnic Council of Shepparton, AFL’s Diversity Program Ambassador and Community Ambassador for Cricket Australia.
Now, he is the Goulburn region’s strategic engagement coordinator for the Victorian Government, and assists new residents in the region from diverse backgrounds with employment, housing and other challenges. Mr Atukorala said he was “honoured and humbled” to be nominated for the award, but his attention was directed toward assisting the community
“My focus it to do whatever I can do to make a difference,” he said. Goulburn Murray Community Leadership executive officer Nathan Bibby said Mr Atukorala’s passion for making all newcomers feel welcome in the Goulburn-Murray region made him a worthy candidate for the award.
“When I started my job in February this year, the first phone call I got was from Sam welcoming me to the community,” he said. “It goes a long way really, when someone reaches out like that.” Mr Atukorala continues to look for ways he can assist his community, but says he is looking forward to spending more time with his family in the future.
“Spending more time with my family is something that I’m really focused on,” he said. “If I see something that I’m passionate about and I can find some time, and commit 100 per cent, then I’ll put my hand up.” Community Achievement Award winners will be announced Friday, December 17.
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