The program took home a number of awards at the Multicultural Youth Education Awards in Melbourne, after being awarded the Outstanding New Learning Support Program and one of their students, Baraka was named runner-up for the Outstanding Secondary Student in Victoria and Regional Rural Areas.
Two of their volunteers were also recognised at the awards, with Wapa Yungu and Helen Long both receiving awards for running the Women and Young Girls’ Empowerment and Economic Development Program.
The program was also shortlisted for the 2024 My Education Awards in the Outstanding New Learning Support Program category.
Masomo Mbele Foundation and Echo Hope Project founder and director Declo Bisimwa said the awards were a huge win for the program.
“This is not just a win for us, it’s a win for every single person who has supported, volunteered and contributed to the Echo Hope Project,” he said.
“This achievement is a collective victory, and we are proud to continue being the ‘front door’ for change in our communities.”
The Echo Hope Project is part of the Masomo Mbele Foundation, and is designed for young people aged under 24 who are refugees and from diverse backgrounds.
The program aims to connect, develop and empower young people and children to build inclusive communities, inspire them to learn more about themselves and their leadership potential, increase participation in education and improve employment prospects.
It is focused on safety and educational outcomes for children and young people who are experiencing disadvantage, social isolation, exposure to violence and are at risk of becoming involved in youth gangs.
Its current programs include the Homework Club and Digital Competency, Introductory Legal Education and English Classes for Refugees, Declo Global Youth Talks Conferences — Storytelling and Tolerance of Diversity and Skills Building Knowledge and Employment Networks.
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