Accessible Diversity Services Initiative Limited

We are a community based, non-profit organisation established to promote the principles of multiculturalism, access, equity and social justice and committed to developing strategies for all Australians, especially special needs groups such as refugees, women, youth, children, families, the elderly, the unemployed, the homeless and people with a disability.

Term 2020 ~ 2023

Sarjoh Bah

GAICD, ASW

Chairperson | Non Executive Board Member
Bantal Pulaar Community

Sarjoh was born in Sierra Leone and migrated to Australia in 2001. His commitment to social justice and human rights lead him to work with many refugees and vulnerable communities while in Egypt during his studies at the El Azhar University. Sarjoh is a founding member of the Bantal Pulaar Community Australia Inc, an active member of African communities in Australia and was instrumental in developing the African Workers Network. Sarjoh worked with diverse communities and activly involved in refugee issues. Sarjoh completed Masters of Social Science with UWS and Masters of Social Work with the Charles Sturt University. He is now working with the Department of Human Services and has an Australian Association of Social Workers membership.

Irene Simms

JP

Non Executive Board Member
Individual

Australian born of Dutch parents, Irene has been a member of the local community since moved to Lidcombe in 1977. Her passion to help others saw her elected to the Auburn Council in 1999. During her time as an elected member on the Council, Irene served a term as deputy Mayor, as well as a term as Mayor. As an ex-officio, Irene also served several years representing the Council and the local community interests on the Board of Auburn Diversity Services Inc. Following the amalgamation on Auburn/Holroyd/part of Parramatta Councils, Irene is no longer a Councillor but still has a keen interest in the welfare of her fellow local residents.

Jayaraman Guruswami

JP OAM GAICD

Non Executive Board Member
SRI OM Foundation

Jayraman has years of experience in community engagement and development, with interests in aged care in CALD communities. He holds G.Dip in Health & Aged Care, G.Dip in Health Counselling and G.Dip in Medical Terminology & Counselling. He has presented in various community organisations, including ADSi, SRI OM Foundation, and Hindu Council of Australia. Jayraman is a JP and has received a number of awards, such as Outstanding Services to Older Citizens Award from the Auburn Council (2011), Service to the Indian Community and Seniors by the India Independence & Australia Day Celebration Committee (2010). He was also awarded for his contributions for seniors in Western Sydney by the Minister for Ageing & Disability.

Hamed Turay

ASW

Non Executive Board Member
STARTTS

Originally from Sierra Leone, Hamed arrived in Australia in 2005 and worked in various capacities with the Drug & Alcohol Multicultural Education Centre, Multicultural HIV/AIDS & Hepatitis C Service and now STARTTS as Community Development Team Leader. Hamed holds Master of Social Work (MSW-PQ) from Charles Sturt University, and holds other qualifications from the University of Western Sydney and University of Sierra Leone. His knowledge and skills are in community development, social policy, project management, humanitarian work, training and human rights. Hamed is also an accredited Australian Social Worker.