Who we are
Wyndham African Communities Network (WACN) is a group of African-Australian leaders, advocates, professionals, business operators and other regular members of the community who are involved in advocacy work and want to collaborate with like-minded people, at a local level, to help make a difference in the community.
Our vision
Our vision is to see a vibrant, confident, prosperous and united African-Australian community in the city of Wyndham.
Our mission
Our mission is to connect, support and empower African-Australian individuals, families and communities in the city of Wyndham and enable them to better contribute to community progress and harmony at local level. We also aim to work closely with local stakeholders as a means to better support the community and improve life in Wyndham for all residents.
WACN’s initial meeting at Wiyaperri House in Werribee
Our goals and objectives
WACN focuses on capacity building. We aim to develop stronger and more prosperous African-Australian communities by :
- Providing networking opportunities and connecting various African individuals, families and communities to each other, to other local groups and stakeholders, in meaningful ways
- Advocating for and promoting the welfare of African-Australian communities in the Wyndham area and ensuring their active participation in community life, policy and decision-making processes, at the local level
- Liaising with local and state government agencies, as well as other relevant stakeholders to identify further opportunities for collaboration
- Responding to the changing needs of African-Australians communities and liaising with relevant stakeholders to help prevent, address and resolve issues in the community
- Canvassing issues, challenges and opportunities and developing a credible voice, both at local and state levels, to ensure appropriate action is being taken to help African-Australian individuals and communities residing in the city of Wyndham.
Our history
WACN was initiated in early July 2018. The project was proposed by a member of the African-Australian community in collaboration with two local stakeholders. The first meeting for the network was convened on Saturday 1 August 2018 and was attended by over 22 African-Australian community advocates from 14 different nationalities. A representative of the Wyndham city council also attended the meeting.