With pride, Cricket Australia announces the introduction of its Multicultural Ambassador Program, appointing 54 individuals as its first representatives who represent a range of backgrounds and experiences in industry, government, sport, media, and the community.
The Ambassador Program was unveiled as a major initiative of the Australian Cricket Multicultural Action Plan. It brings together distinguished professionals from a range of industries to promote inclusivity and encourage constructive change in the sport and community at large.
Web Desk’s Action Plan22 May 2024
Wasim Akram, a former left-arm fast bowler. — AFP File
Wasim Akram was a former left-arm fast bowler. — A file in AFP
MELBOURNE: Cricket Australia is pleased to announce the commencement of its Multicultural Ambassador Program, designating 54 individuals as the first representatives. These individuals have a range of backgrounds and experiences in industry, government, sport, media, and the community.
The Ambassador Program was unveiled as a major initiative of the Australian Cricket Multicultural Action Plan. It brings together distinguished professionals from a range of industries to promote inclusivity and encourage constructive change in the sport and community at large.
Several prominent figures from the past and present, as well as leaders from the business and community, are on the list of ambassadors. They will promote diversity and help achieve the objectives stated in the Multicultural Action Plan.
Here is the complete list of ambassadors:
The five focal areas of Australian Cricket’s Multicultural Action Plan—Participation, High Performance, People and Representation, Communications and Engagement, and Event and Experience—will be spearheaded by the ambassadors, who come from the government, business, community, media, and cricket.
By concentrating on their areas of expertise, the ambassadors will provide guidance, understanding, and assistance to promote more interconnectivity throughout the Australian cricket scene.
“We are thrilled to welcome such a dynamic and diverse group as Multicultural Ambassadors,” stated Nick Hockley, CEO of Cricket Australia. Their combined enthusiasm, knowledge, and leadership will be crucial in bringing about significant change and developing a more welcoming cricket community.
Cricket Australia’s steadfast dedication to developing a sport that includes people from diverse origins and reflects modern Australian culture is embodied in the Multicultural Ambassador Program. By working together and taking collective action, the program hopes to guarantee that cricket is a friendly and inclusive game for everyone.
“Our objectives are clear: to create more opportunities for multicultural members of the community to engage with cricket, break down barriers, build trust, and drive progress across.”
Usman Khawaja, an Australian player, stated: “I am honored to join Cricket Australia as a Multicultural Ambassador. I see the game as a bridge that unites people from different backgrounds and welcomes all, promoting harmony, understanding, and respect.”
We must go farther as a sport to guarantee that the community is better and more fairly represented. To do this, we must provide opportunities, celebrate our common passion for the game, and encourage players from all walks of life to participate.”
“Being a Cricket Australia Multicultural Ambassador is an incredible honor,” stated Lisa Sthalekar, a former Australian player and cricket commentator. I get to celebrate and advocate for the variety that contributes to our sport’s vibrancy and inclusivity in this capacity.
“Cricket has the power to unite people from all backgrounds, and I am committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome and inspired to be a part of the game.”
The ambassadors, who were appointed for a two-year term, are from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds, including Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Indigenous Australian, Bangladeshi, Nepali, and Afghani communities.
Distinguished public figures, powerful business executives, and community advocates are among the ambassadors. A multidimensional approach to tackling the benefits and difficulties associated with diversity and inclusion in cricket and society at large is ensured by this diversified composition.
