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Terri Soumilas
Engagement Lead at DPV Health
Professional Background
Terri Soumilas is a dedicated community-focused professional with over 20 years of experience in driving social change and advocating for diverse communities. Throughout her career, Terri has developed a remarkable expertise in managing and fostering productive relationships among various stakeholders, including individuals, organizations, and community groups. This extensive experience has enabled her to effectively negotiate mutually beneficial outcomes, ensuring that the needs of communities are at the forefront of all initiatives.
In her current role as the Engagement Lead at DPV Health, Terri leverages her extensive background in community development to enhance stakeholder engagement strategies. Her work plays a pivotal role in addressing the health and well-being of individuals, particularly focusing on the unique needs of marginalized communities. Before this position, she made significant contributions as an Authorised Officer during the COVID-19 response at the Department of Health & Human Services in Victoria. Here, she utilized her skills to effectively communicate vital health information and engage with communities during a critical time.
Terri’s past experiences at Brimbank City Council demonstrate her commitment to diversity and inclusion. As a Diversity and Inclusion Planning Officer, she was instrumental in creating initiatives that promote multiculturalism and social cohesion. One of her notable projects was as a Project Leader for Harmony in Our Neighbour, where she implemented strategies aimed at fostering social connections within diverse communities. Furthermore, she served as the Chairperson for the Victorian Local Government Multicultural Issues Network (VLGMIN), highlighting her leadership and dedication to advocating for multicultural issues across local government.
Education and Achievements
Terri is a lifelong learner, constantly seeking opportunities to improve her skills and knowledge. She holds a Graduate Diploma in Industrial Relations and Human Resources from Victoria University, where she gained insights into the complexities of workplace dynamics and the importance of effective communication in diverse environments. Additionally, she has studied various aspects of engagement methods through certifications with the International Association for Public Participation, equipping her with advanced methodologies to manage conflict and enhance community participation.
Throughout her career, Terri has demonstrated exceptional organizational skills and extensive project management experience. Her foundational experience as a Community Engagement and Social Planning Officer has enabled her to establish frameworks for effective community interaction and collaboration. She has a wealth of experience in community services, including her early career as a Housing Officer at Victoria University. This breadth of experience across various fields has equipped her with a holistic understanding of community needs, setting her apart as an expert in her domain.
Achievements
Terri Soumilas has made remarkable contributions to the field of community engagement, empowering both individuals and communities to realize their potential through collaboration and mutual support. Her ability to think creatively and approach challenges with innovative solutions has earned her recognition among peers and stakeholders alike. She is particularly renowned for her deep commitment to supporting refugee and asylum seeker communities, working tirelessly to create pathways for durable settlement outcomes.
In her role as a community development manager and in various project leadership positions, Terri consistently upholds the principles of effective communication and stakeholder relationship management. Her competencies as a strong team player and resourceful problem-solver enable her to navigate complex community issues, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected. This has led to improved outcomes in community engagement activities, ultimately fostering harmony and understanding across diverse populations.
Overall, Terri Soumilas embodies a strong passion for community development and social change. Her extensive knowledge, coupled with her hands-on experience and ongoing commitment to personal and professional development, positions her as a leader within her field. Her journey reflects a life dedicated to service, with profound impacts on the communities she engages with. Terri’s work not only transforms individual lives but also significantly enhances community resilience and cohesion, making her a vital asset to any organization aiming to foster positive social change.
