On behalf of the Board and everyone at Diaspora Action Australia (DAA), I would like to congratulate our Executive Director, Denise Cauchi on recently being awarded the Order of Australia Medal for her contribution to multiculturalism and human rights. Denise is an extremely passionate, skilled and dedicated professional and individual.  She has a strong understanding of global and social issues and excels in her advocacy work that aims to address injustice and inequality.  

Denise has more than 20 years’ experience as a human rights and social justice advocate, with a particular focus on armed conflict.   It is obvious to many that Denise holds very strong values about global compassion and social justice.   She is highly skilled in organisational development, governance, strategy, management, advocacy, program management, analysis, policy development, facilitation, public speaking, writing and editing.   She has made immensely valuable contributions to human rights, humanitarian protection, diaspora and transnational activism, gender and diversity, community development, journalism and media.   

We at DAA cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award than Denise.

Hala Abdelnour
DAA Chair