LINC appoints Vicki Cini as new multicultural worker within Lithgow

The new multicultural worker role, a position funded by the Department of Home Affairs and Multicultural NSW, will work closely with different groups in the community.

According to Ms Cini the role is about 'fostering integration and inclusion' within the Lithgow society.

"I want to promote and strengthen intercultural networks in the region and to encourage community consultation," she said.

Ms Cini said she would like to encourage social participation, to aid in reducing isolation within the community.

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"We have spoken to and had community consultation with two Lithgow TAFE classes (Adult Migrant English Program) who made a list and identified things they would like more help with," she said.

"The main things that came out of that consultation was that they wanted social connection, help getting their driver's licence, job seeking skills and help preparing for the citizenship test.

"I will also help with practising conversational English, and support them to develop knowledge of the community services within town."

Ms Cini said that resume preparation, application support and connecting to local job networks would be important.

"A key aspect of the project will be the development of sustainability and community connectedness beyond this project," she said.

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Starting on Monday, August 5, Ms Cini has organised a once a month multicultural 'Fun Day Monday' for the community.

The event which runs from 1-3pm at LINC is open to everyone within the community to come and meet new friends, share knowledge and learn new skills.

"It's open to everyone because that way it enables us to educate the local community and expose and encourage diversity," she said.

Ms Cini said they will also run mini excursions around the area to learn more about Lithgow, as well as using facilities like the Bowenfels Hub when it is complete.

"We need to be ready to increase community acceptance, engagement and participation for all members of our community," she said.

Ms Cini said by the end of the project in June 2020 she would like to see the group stand alone.

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"I want to be able to identify key members of the group, and allow them to continue to run the group and foster integration and a strong connection to the community," she said.

Ms Cini will be working Monday through to Wednesday every week.

Ms Cini comes from a proud multicultural background; her father is Maltese.

She started in nursing supporting individuals before undertaking volunteer work with the Red Cross in Thailand and Vietnam.

"When this position became available I saw it as a great opportunity to move into a role different from what I've done in the past that also enables me to use the skills I have gained over the years," she said.

"I just really like working with people."