Sohail Yamin an Engineer by profession and artist by passion was awarded Victoria’s multicultural award for excellence due to his service to the community.
The ceremony took place at the Governor house where 61 Victorians were recognised for their contribution in “strengthening multiculturalism through professional and volunteer service to the community.”
Mr Yamin was recognised for his volunteer efforts under the ‘meritorious service to the community’ award category.
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61 Victorians were awarded Victoria's Multicultural award for Excellence. Source: Victorian Multicultural Commission
His volunteer work recognised under this category includes fundraising efforts in response to the Pakistan earthquakes, the construction of The Islamic Museum of Australia, the Acid Victim Attack Awareness Project and for his ongoing work to promote acceptance, unity, harmony and multiculturalism through the delivery of art and cultural festivals in Victoria.
Mr Yamin told SBS Urdu that he was humbled and honoured to be recognised for his work.
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Car painted by Sohail Yamin and displayed as part of SalamFest. Source: Supplied
“I know a lot of people who do similar work for the community. I have been fortunate enough to be recognised for the work I have done over the past few years,” said Mr Yamin.
“Two of the highlights from my work were the Rumi car I had to paint as part of Salam Fest and the paintings I made for the Australia day event using polaroid photos and mapping them on the map of the country.” he further added.
The 18th ceremony of Victoria’s Multicultural Awards for Excellence was hosted by the Honourable Linda Dessau AC, Governor of Victoria, and Mr Anthony Howard AM QC.
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Artwork by Sohail Yamin displayed at Australia Day event. Source: Supplied
Victorian Multicultural Commission Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen the awards are a great opportunity to celebrate Victoria’s multicultural community.
“Victoria’s reputation as one of the most successful and welcoming multicultural societies in the world isn’t by chance, it’s because of the tireless efforts of Victorians who have helped diversity thrive.”
“The Multicultural Awards shine a light on those diversity heroes who make a profound difference in the lives of culturally and linguistically diverse people every day and contribute to building and maintaining community harmony,” said Ms Nguyen.
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Artwork by Sohail Yamin. Source: Supplied