The power of a multicultural sisterhood
A Logan Central non-profit, which aims to empower young and diverse women in navigating life’s challenges, embodies the spirit of multiculturalism with vigour.
Led by self-described ‘fierce’ females, Ethni creates safe spaces throughout the year for young women aged between 15 to 30 to learn, connect and grow.
Ethni senior facilitator and support worker, Nasteho Muktar, says it is vital for young women to have space to simply ‘breathe, be and come as they are’.
‘Right now, one of the biggest challenges for diverse young women is the loss of identity,’ Nasteho says.
‘You don’t know where you really fit in because in white Australia, you’re too coloured, but when you go back into the community, you’re too Australian – it’s like being in no man’s land.’
Above: Nasteho Muktar, a Somalian refugee that has found purpose as a senior facilitator and social worker at Ethni.
Ethni participants come from countries across the world, from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe and Vietnam.
One of the organisation’s most popular events is the Safe Sisters Gathering, which features guest panels and round table discussions on relevant topics such as intergenerational trauma.
Friends, sisters, mothers and aunties are often invited to add new perspectives to the conversation.
Other programs include the ‘Big Sister’ mentorship program, therapy services and careers training.
‘What differentiates us from other charities is that we’re incredibly youth-led,’ Nasteho says.
‘We work very closely with our community, so it’s much easier for us to be in tune with what is needed.’
Nasteho herself started off as a youth volunteer for Ethni and was provided with much-needed support by founder Kim Rollason-Nokes.
‘I was a refugee kid without knowledge of the English language or culture, and there were people like Kim who championed me,’ she says.
‘Being a part of the team is my way of giving back in the same way people have helped me.
‘It’s so rewarding to see a young woman have that lightbulb moment after a workshop and realise she’s connected and not going through something alone.’
