Jahin Tanvir was 2 years old when he and his parents migrated to Australia from Bangladesh. He now champions youth empowerment, healthcare and education for all young people.
This is his story.
When I was 2 years of age, my parents and I arrived in Western Sydney from Dhaka, Bangladesh. I’ve looked ever since to my parents as my inspiration. Their selflessness of leaving established lives behind to give me opportunities in Australia is truly amazing.
So, I have poured my efforts into study at university and participation with organisations such as World Vision, the Red Cross and the United Nations.
My overall aim is to create positive change in my community.
As a first-generation migrant, I want to empower people from a range of backgrounds in decision-making and conversations in Australia.
For me, allowing people to be confident in their distinct identities and celebrate the diversity that surrounds them is at the centre of multiculturalism.
In 2020, despite the challenges set out by the spread of the COVID-19 in the community, I was a guest speaker at Parliament House, at TEDx conferences across the country, and on national radio and television.
Through these opportunities, I have met a myriad of like-minded and forward-thinking young people, which is my greatest joy.
I have launched my career as a writer and have written on youth issues, racism and health, for a range of print and digital publications.
I’m a Board Director of the Adolescent Health Association of Australia and Youth Coalition of the ACT.
I was named a Young Ambassador for UNICEF for 2022 and was a 2022 Young Australian of the Year finalist. I also received the 2021 Young Canberra Citizen of the Year in Individual Community Service.
As for what’s next, I have plans for my healthcare career and continuing to develop roles in advocacy.
I hope that my efforts will inspire other young people to take action in their own communities.