Azmeena Hussain is a busy young professional working as an associate at Maurice Blackburn Lawyers. Despite her hectic schedule, one of her top priorities is making a difference in the lives of others through her role as a multicultural ambassador with North Melbourne.

A proud Muslim, Azmeena is passionate about working to create social cohesion and inclusion for everyone no matter their gender, religion or cultural background. The Huddle asked Azmeena to explain her role and the impact she has had not only for young people through sport, but in other areas such as her career and community.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a lawyer and act for clients who have suffered injury, discrimination or illness arising out of, or in the course of their employment. I am pretty passionate about ensuring every individual has access to justice and quite passionate about working with culturally diverse communities and women in particular.

As well as that, I am on the board of InTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence, Islamic Council of Victoria, Vice President, Office for Women and advisory for Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria.  

How did you become involved as an NMFC multicultural ambassador?

When I first became an ambassador, in all honesty, a couple of friends and colleagues raised an eyebrow. I am not your typical AFL die-hard, but I was keen to be part of a program which was committed to making a difference in our community. The work of NMFC has been real and meaningful and has had a lasting impact on our multicultural communities. So in saying that, how could you not want to be a part of such success story?!

What are some of the responsibilities of your role?

Engaging my community with AFL and with the unique opportunities NMFC provide beyond just the game on-field. I remember at my first induction when we all went around the room and said why we joined this ambassador program, I remember stressing a little in my seat when everyone around me was boasting about their knowledge and experience of the game…I knew very little about the game. I shared that I was quite impressed AFL had identified the vital role they play in actively ensuring communities all felt a sense of belonging. This is what I hope to assist AFL with – being a vehicle of engagement really. I’ve also learnt quite a lot about the game along the way.  

How have you as an ambassador promoted AFL programs in your community or workplace?

A few weeks ago I had the privilege of leading a group of young, Indian AusKickers out onto the MCG at half-time. It was a unique opportunity for the young people and secretly for me as well! It was lovely to sit with the Indian families in a special VIP section and watch the game.  

Through NMFC ‘Good Wheel’ program I had the opportunity to present to a group of young female bike riders on road safety and their rights and the law. This program is quite an impressive initiative co-ordinated by NMFC and I commend them for this initiative.

Last year at Maurice Blackburn I co-ordinated a ‘Respectful Relationships’ event in recognition of White Ribbon Day. AFL were a proud supporter of the event and donated a football which was auctioned on the evening, with proceedings going to the White Ribbon Foundation.

Why are the AFL and North Melbourne’s multicultural programs so important?

Sport is an integral part of Australian life and culture and plays a vital role in multicultural Australia as a tool for social inclusion, empowering many newly-arrived Australians to develop an identity and sense of active belonging.

Aussies respect AFL players for their contribution to the game as opposed to their ethnicity or religious persuasion and is a major social component of Australia. We get on with each other by discussing sport with our colleagues and friends during in the office after spending the weekend cheering for our team.

NMFC has been at the forefront in assisting young people integrate into their local communities through an integral part of Australian life and culture.  I commend NMFC for the work they’re doing in advancing social cohesion and making us all one team, it’s been great to be a part of it.