Project Sunrise has been honoured with an award at the Africa Day Gala for two consecutive years — 2023 and 2024 — in recognition of exceptional service to African Australian communities across Victoria.
The Africa Day Gala is one of Australia’s premier celebrations of African culture, community, and achievement. Held annually in Melbourne, the event brings together diplomats, government representatives, community leaders, and organisations committed to the wellbeing and advancement of African Australians. Being recognised at this event — twice — reflects the impact Project Sunrise has made since its launch.
Two Years of Recognition
The 2023 recognition came as Project Sunrise was firmly establishing itself as a trusted presence across Victoria’s African communities. In its first full year of operation, the program had already supported hundreds of young people with free, culturally safe AOD counselling, case management, and service navigation.
By 2024, Project Sunrise had deepened its partnerships with community organisations, expanded its outreach events, and strengthened cultural competency training for mainstream service providers — contributing to the systemic change that VACAP was designed to create.
What This Recognition Means
Being recognised at the Africa Day Gala carries particular significance. These awards come from within the community itself — from peers who understand the depth of the challenges facing young African Australians and who have witnessed firsthand the difference that culturally grounded, community-led support can make.
- Acknowledgement from African Australian community leaders and peers
- Recognition of two years of sustained, impactful service delivery
- Validation of the Ubuntu Approach — healing through community, not in spite of it
- A platform to raise awareness of free AOD services available to young people
Photo Gallery
“The Ubuntu philosophy teaches us that a person is a person through other people. These awards are not ours alone — they belong to every family, every young person, and every community elder who has trusted us with their story.”
— African Australian Welfare Bureau
About Africa Day
Africa Day is celebrated annually on 25 May to mark the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963. In Australia, the Africa Day Gala has grown into a flagship event that celebrates the richness of African culture, acknowledges community achievement, and advocates for the rights and wellbeing of African Australians.
Project Sunrise is a free, confidential AOD recovery service for young African Australians aged 12–34 across Victoria, funded by the Victorian African Communities Action Plan (VACAP).
