Fijian is First Pacific Islander to Win International Women’s Award
Kesa Dibabale Strieby is the first Pacific Islander to receive Australia’s International Women’s Award.
Born and raised in Suva, she married eventually Swedish man, Markus, and migrated overseas. She now lives in Cairns.
Her first trip to Australia was in 1985 to study Social Work, and Diploma in Community Services and Justice Studies until 1988.
With maternal links from Makadru, Matuku, Lau, Ms Strieby was originally from Nayaulevu, Ului Saivou, Ra.
Before settling in Australia and calling it home for the past 15 years, she lived in 10 different countries due to her husband’s job.
The mother of one was overwhelmed and excited to receive the award, especially since there were 100 nominees, resulting in her she being among the 20 finalists.
The social worker managed a Homeless Programme which was funded by the Australian Government for the last eight years.
She was also the President for Cairns and Region Multicultural Association (CARMA) and was certified Justice of Peace (JP).
CARMA is the umbrella association for more than 50 community groups in Far North Queensland (FNQ).
“I established the Fijian Community Association in FNQ,” Ms Strieby said.
“I am passionate about helping the vulnerable people in community engagement, social cohesion, and clarity.
“FNQ is progressing as we do a slot of youth projects for the four years providing Youth Programmes Mining Drilling Training, Construction certificates and life skills that is how to make lovo, bushwalking, driving license.
“The focus is to bring all Fijians to work together to share, preserve and to promote our Fijian culture in Far North Queensland.
“While I dedicate my achievements to my parents in heaven, they gave me so much love and support to live their legacy as they were an amazing driven couple al- ways supporting each other in everything,” she said.
Apart from all the community help she offers; she plays golf or scuba diving for self-care.
Edited by Losirene Lacanivalu
