“Helping people is what remains after you’ve gone” | Syed Shah Khan Amin Zada
Stepan Kerkyasharian AO Community Harmony Medal, sponsored by The Commonwealth Bank of Australia
In 2013, Syed Amin Zada returned to Afghanistan for the first time since coming to Australia as a refugee six years earlier.
There, his grandfather shared a piece of wisdom that would stay with him forever: “Helping people is what remains after you’ve gone.”
These words became a guiding principle for Syed. They fuelled his unwavering commitment to supporting new migrants and refugees to adjust to life in Australia.
Syed’s own experience of displacement deepened his empathy for others facing similar challenges.
As a teenager, he arrived in Australia with his mother and three younger siblings. After ten years apart, they were reunited with their father.
His journey is remarkable. Learning English from scratch at Chester Hill Intensive English Centre, becoming a student leader at his high school, and later completing his university studies.
“I understand the struggles of refugees, especially women and young people, as they adapt to their new environment,” Syed said.
“They face numerous challenges. Learning English, finding work, understanding how to navigate essential services like Medicare and Centrelink, learning to drive, and opening a bank account.
“I’m passionate about helping them overcome these barriers and access the opportunities they deserve.”
Syed saw that migrant and refugee families can face challenges navigating the immigration system. So, he recently qualified as a migration lawyer to better serve them.
Beyond providing practical support to new arrivals, Syed has become an advocate for Australia’s multicultural society.
He has organised a variety of initiatives, including multicultural festivals, art shows, and food fairs.
One of Syed’s most impactful projects was the Bridging Cultures: An Interfaith Dialogue Forum.
The event brought together over 150 people from different cultural and religious backgrounds. Attendees had open conversations, challenged stereotypes, and fostered stronger community ties.
Syed’s leadership extends to helping young migrants and refugees find success through mentorship programs.
He draws inspiration from his own experiences with positive role models, such as his father, language school principal, and high school career advisor.
Syed connects young people with mentors who can guide them on education and career paths.
“I hope to empower them to thrive, just as I have,” Syed shared.
“I believe my work gives people hope and strength. I strive to instil in them the belief that no matter the obstacles, they should never lose hope.
“As the saying goes, ‘If you try, you can fly.’ I wholeheartedly believe that with determination, anyone can succeed.”
For his tireless work, Syed Shah Khan Amin Zada was awarded the 2025 Stepan Kerkyasharian AO Community Harmony Medal.
