The River Nile Learning Centre (RNLC) is being recognised for its commitment to empowering disadvantaged women through education and multicultural efforts.
On Tuesday December 19, the Melbourne-based organisation will be awarded the Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence award in the Vocational Education and Training category.
The awards are organised by the Victorian Multicultural Commission in order to celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations towards multiculturalism in Victoria.
RNLC is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for women from diverse cultural backgrounds with a range of programs and services. The organisation looks to foster a stronger and more inclusive community by empowering women to build skills, confidence, and connections.
Many vulnerable women in the community, be it through age, visa or personal circumstances, are unable to find education.
RNLC’s Engagement Coordinator Rahel Davies shared her enthusiasm about the win, saying that they are honoured.
“This recognition not only acknowledges our dedication to empowering disadvantaged women through education but also provides a great opportunity for collaboration with other like-minded organisations,” she told Neos Kosmos.
“We hope it helps us secure future funding for our program to ensure that we can continue to do this important work.
“Together, we can create a positive impact on the lives of women from diverse backgrounds, fostering a stronger and more inclusive community.”
Director of Small Chilli Marketing, Effie Cinanni assisted RNLC with their award submission and will be attending the event with them.
“I could see the transformative impact the RNLC had on women in our community,” the Greek Australian said in in the release.
“I identified the need to raise the organisation’s profile, as I really wanted to try and help RNLC secure more funding to ensure they can continue to do the important work they do which is empowering women to integrate and thrive in our community.”
Effie understands the importance of education access for newly arrived Australians and how difficult the migrant and refugee journey could be as a child of Greek migrant parents.
She brings up filotimo, the attitude of showing empathy, compassion, and generosity without expecting anything in return and it is this filotimo that drove her to assist this organisation and to help other women in need.
RNLC works with Service Stars to run a Work Readiness program for women that equips them with essential job skills, enhancing their employability and opening doors to employment opportunities in hospitality, retail, and other sectors.
Coupled with this, the RNLC ensures that women can attend classes without worrying about childcare responsibilities, by offering free childcare services onsite, facilitating their journey toward economic and financial independence.
Other features of this educational program include, onsite social support through a qualified social worker, free driving lessons, foodbank and Myki cards, all designed to remove barriers to education.
“Just imagine if our mother’s had access to a program like this in the 60’s and 70’s when Greeks arrived here in Australia. I am proud to play a small part in this important change and improvement in women’s access to education, for all women no matter their background,” said Effie.
