CEO of Afri-Aus Care and Resettlement Advocate
Selba-Gondoza Luka’s remarkable journey from Malawi to Melbourne exemplifies the transformative power of community service and cultural bridge-building.
Arriving in Australia in February 1996, Selba-Gondoza made history by becoming the first African mother to have her child delivered at a Melbourne hospital. This personal milestone marked the beginning of her deep commitment to supporting other African families navigating life in Australia.
Leadership Roles:
- CEO and Founder of Afri-Aus Care
- Greater Dandenong Citizen of the Year 2021
- Community health advocate
- Multicultural liaison specialist
Afri-Aus Care, founded by Selba-Gondoza, provides essential services to newly arrived African immigrants, including housing support, employment assistance, and cultural orientation. The organization has become a vital resource for families adjusting to life in Australia.
Her recognition as Greater Dandenong Citizen of the Year 2021 acknowledged her decades of volunteer work supporting refugee resettlement and community integration. The award highlighted her role in creating programs that help preserve cultural identity while fostering successful integration.
Selba-Gondoza’s approach focuses on maintaining cultural connections while embracing Australian opportunities. She organizes community events, provides mentorship programs, and advocates for policy changes that better support immigrant families.
“I believe in bringing people together. Ubuntu philosophy means ‘I am because we are, seeing each other.’ There are so many barriers, but I believe in setting an example.”