Seeking fresh voices to strengthen our multicultural community

Two new volunteer Mentee positions with Sunshine Coast Council’s Multicultural Advisory Group (MAG) are open to people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

The roles aim to give emerging leaders the opportunity to share their voice and contribute to community life in the region.

As a Mentee, participants will join bi-monthly MAG meetings, share their lived experience of settlement and inclusion, and receive support from experienced MAG members and Council’s Community Development team.

Help create a welcoming environment

Their insights will help build a clearer picture of the realities, needs and opportunities facing newcomers on the Sunshine Coast.

Mentees will also have the option to help organise the 2026 Welcoming Week Picnic, from co‑designing cultural activities to connecting with new and emerging communities.

Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said the new mentee roles offered a supported pathway for emerging multicultural leaders to step into community life.

“The Sunshine Coast is a vibrant and welcoming place, and these roles are another way to strengthen the voices of our multicultural communities,” Cr Bunnag said.

“We want new arrivals to feel backed, heard, and to see there are genuine opportunities to be part of local leadership.

“Their lived experience is incredibly valuable and can help shape more inclusive services across the region.”

Fresh perspectives needed

Founding MAG member Peppi Bueti said bringing mentees into the Group would add fresh perspectives to its work.

“MAG has always focused on listening to community voices and creating spaces where people feel safe and represented,” Mr Bueti said.

“Having mentees join us means we can learn directly from people who have recently arrived and understand the level of support that helps them settle and thrive.

“It’s a great opportunity for emerging leaders to build skills while contributing to meaningful community work.”

MAG member Silvia Castillo said the mentee experience could help new arrivals form strong local connections.

“When I first joined MAG, I learned so much about how community groups influence local decisions,” Ms Castillo said.

“Through MAG, I’ve seen how creating strong links between Council and multicultural communities helps us feel heard, welcomed and empowered to actively participate in the place we now call home.”

Building stronger connections

“These mentee roles offer that same experience by building confidence, forming connections and creating space for participants to share their stories in a supportive environment.

“It’s a wonderful way for newcomers to feel part of the Sunshine Coast community.”

Expressions of Interest are encouraged from people who have lived on the Sunshine Coast for less than a year, identify as part of a multicultural community, are interested in leadership and inclusion, and can attend MAG meetings.

No previous advisory experience is needed.

Applicants are asked to provide a brief overview of their background, community connections, interest in the role and what they hope to gain from the experience.

The Expression of Interest form is available here.

Applications close 23 March 2026.