Dr Luka Kuol has performed ministerial roles within the governments of South Sudan and the Republic of the Sudan. As current Dean of Academic Affairs within the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, Dr Kuol manages multiple academic programs while also being an analyst and commentator on governance and issues impacting South Sudan. With areas of expertise in fields including conflict analysis, migration, and post-conflict development Dr Kuol has a great knowledge of institutions and programs related to the welfare of South Sudanese peoples around the world.

Biong Deng Biong is a dedicated advocate for refugee and multicultural community with a passion for social inclusion, justice and equality. Biong has worked in the community sector for over 15 years, including as Executive Officer in a migrant resource centre. He currently advises the Victorian government on multicultural affairs as a member of the Regional Advisory Council, is a community ambassador for Melbourne Victory FC, and member of the South Sudanese Leaders Forum in partnership with Victoria Police.

Alor has worked advising government in the community sector throughout the last decade. He is currently a Community Engagement Officer within government and has worked for 8 years as an African liaison officer in Victorian secondary schools. Alor is working towards: improving cultural knowledge and practices within Youth Justice staff, developing links between government and community organisations, and developing effective policy responses to issues impacting African communities.

Casey holds a Masters in Social Work and is a Graduate in Family Therapy. Casey works from a humanist and trauma informed lens and is passionate about supporting young people to strengthen their relationship with family and community. Casey has a background in working in family therapy models focused on reducing recidivism and preventing entry to Out of Home Care. Currently Casey is working as a child trauma counselor.

Georgia has a background in research into the health needs of marginalised groups and has passionately advocated for seeing marginalised voices heard. Currently Georgia is involved in developing cross cultural media to enhance the agency of CALD communities to overcome the sociological barriers that restrict access to vital health services. This includes developing effective relationships with respected community members, enabling communities to create meaningful solutions complex health problems.

David is involved in peace and reconciliation initiatives in South Sudan and the diaspora in Australia to build trust between groups and facilitate development in South Sudan, co-founding organisations including Peace Palette (2011), the Peace Mobiliser initiative (2013) and the Sport 4 Peace initiative (2016). Currently involved in the Peacebuilding Opportunities Fund, David authored the memoir The Boy Who Wouldn’t Die about his experiences in South Sudan published in 2012.

Achai has been an advocate for the interests of African Australian communities with a history of work within community organisations promoting social cohesion and inclusion. With experience in relationship building and fostering collaboration between government bodies and community organisations, Achai has worked to improve the delivery of services in ways that are relevant to the lived experiences of African Australians.