On July 22, 2016, Diaspora Action Australia (DAA) participated in the inaugural Australia Diaspora Engagement Forum (ADEF). The forum, hosted by the Australia Zimbabwe Business Council in collaboration with the Australia African Chamber of Commerce and Australia Africa Small Business Association, brought together African Australians running businesses either in Australia or Africa.

Talks centred around ways African refugee and migrant communities can contribute to economic development in African countries through business, as well as health, education and other economic sectors. Matthew Neuhaus, Assistant Secretary at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Africa Branch, delivered the keynote address.

Denise Cauchi, Executive Director of DAA, remarks: “The ADEF was a wonderful opportunity to meet some of the bright stars of African-Australian entrepreneurship, committed to investing in the future of Africa. The discussions were energising, and I will look forward to the next event.”

Highlights from the forum (photo credits: Vanz Banda):

ADEF moderator Christine Makumbe, from AZBC, and Matthew Neuhaus, Assistant Secretary for DFAT, Africa Branch, shake hands.