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Sebastian Geers
Manager, Welcoming Cities at Welcoming Australia
Professional Background
Sebastian Geers is a dedicated professional with over a decade of experience in fostering commitment to more welcoming and inclusive communities across Australia. His passionate approach to community engagement is evidenced by his multifaceted career spanning various organizations and innovative initiatives aimed at uplifting the community. As the Manager of Welcoming Cities at Welcoming Australia, he collaborates with councils and leaders nationwide to develop and implement strategies that enrich the lives of all residents. Under his leadership, Welcoming Cities has expanded its reach and impact, forging connections between diverse community members and creating inclusive environments that celebrate cultural diversity.
Prior to his role at Welcoming Cities, Sebastian served as the Program Manager at the Scanlon Foundation, where he contributed to significant projects focused on social cohesion and community harmony. His innovative mindset saw him co-design impactful programs at The Australian Centre for Social Innovation, where he honed his ability to collaborate with a variety of stakeholders and create solutions tailored to community needs. Sebastian's experience with immigration in Australia began as a Manager for the Australian League of Immigration Volunteers, where he supported efforts to integrate migrants and ensure a smoother transition into Australian society.
Sebastian has also made considerable contributions to family support efforts, especially through his role with Family by Family at The Australian Centre for Social Innovation, where he empowered families to support one another in their community. His diverse professional background reflects his commitment to nurturing an inclusive culture and enhancing community connection.
Education and Achievements
Sebastian holds a Graduate Certificate in Environment from the University of Melbourne, a reputable institution known for its emphasis on sustainability and environmental initiatives. This education has undoubtedly informed his focus on creating environments that are not only inclusive but sustainable. Additionally, he studied Public Relations at the University of South Australia, equipping him with essential communication skills that he has effectively utilized throughout his career in community engagement.
Sebastian's educational background, combined with his professional experiences, showcase a unique blend of environmental awareness and social responsibility. His leadership role at Welcoming Australia and various initiatives like 'A Taste of Harmony' highlight his capability to cultivate corporate diversity efforts that resonate with individuals and organizations alike, making him a leader in the field of community inclusivity.
Achievements
One of Sebastian's most notable achievements is leading Australia’s largest corporate diversity initiative, ‘A Taste of Harmony.’ This groundbreaking program has been instrumental in promoting cultural understanding and inclusion within workplaces, allowing organizations to embrace their diversity and foster a sense of belonging among employees. The program has attracted widespread participation from a myriad of companies, showcasing Sebastian's effective ability to advocate for inclusive practices at a corporate level.
Furthermore, as the Manager of Welcoming Cities, Sebastian has been pivotal in launching numerous projects that have significantly benefited local councils and communities across Australia. His collaborative approach has not only developed innovative programs but has also led to a more significant national dialogue around inclusion and diversity, setting benchmarks for other similar initiatives.
Sebastian's experience within immigration detention centres reflects his hands-on commitment to tackling challenges faced by newly arrived migrants. By working directly within this space, he has gained a nuanced understanding of the barriers faced by immigrants, further enhancing his ability to design effective inclusion strategies. His various roles have consistently emphasized the importance of building bridges between communities, significantly influencing how local, state, and federal governments approach immigration and community initiatives in contemporary Australia.
