Nopporn Ganthavee the young Australian who recently shared the honour of Young Citizen of the Year in Boroondara (that's her receiving the award) was introduced by chairman Geoff Dumayne. Born in Malaysia of Thai parents she proceeded to humble us all as she told of her seemingly endless pursuits in various personal endeavours and within action groups (often which she has set up) in support of those less fortunate in our community.
One consistent theme flowed and that is neatly summarised in the title of her address, ie "Sharing the Path". Her efforts starting from a simple excursion to play piano to entertain some home bound residents have all sought to interact with those socially isolated be they the elderly, sick, refugees, or language bound migrants. The goal is always to encourage these people to connect with the broader society.
The opening experience might be some ordinary thing, such as showing one how to observe society through the internet, or tutor someone, or create a forum for people of different backgrounds to mix, or give free legal advice.
Nopporn demonstrated a passion for social justice and inclusion. Elements of a list of her pursuits, a volunteer at St George’s Aged Care Hospital, and Prague House - a residential facility for Boroondara residents who otherwise may be homeless, and Auburn House - an aged psychiatry facility in Hawthorn East are typical.
She has multiple volunteer roles including playing the piano for patients and residents as well as being an integral part of the ‘Broadband for Seniors’ program, helping residents learn and use the internet.
Nopporn is participating in the ‘Boroondara Inner East Primary Care Opening Doors Project’. Her focus is how we can ensure refugees feel valued and included within our community through volunteering.
She has managed all this volunteering while completing her fifth year of Arts/Law at La Trobe University and a Diploma of Language (she speaks English, Mandarin, Malaysian, Thai and Indonesian).
In 2013 she attended the Australia/China Student Forum, exploring strategies and programs on the ageing population.
Nopporn is also an active volunteer with the Commission of Inquiry Now, advocating for policy and legal reform for child abuse victims seeking justice.
She introduced us to "Humans in New York" a web based service which shows how the plight of homeless or troubled youth can relate experiences with others and so grow.
Question time was interesting. When asked of any specific focus for her ambition beyond exploiting her Arts/Law qualifications and ongoing community work, she indicated a inkling for the public service in government departments which matched her passion for enhancing social inclusiveness in society. Quizzed further she told of a dream to become involved in the judicial process as a means to diminish unfairness in communities here and overseas. One can think that with her drive, skill, passion for the underdog, and doubtless accumulated wisdom her dream is very achievable.
