Celebrating healthy ageing through multicultural co-design
A vibrant celebration of culture took place in October, as Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) hosted a multicultural community event co-produced with local consumers and community organisations.
The celebration was a collaborative effort between NBMLHD’s Multicultural Health Service, the Multicultural Consumer Reference Group (MCRG), Nepean Multicultural Access, Penrith Women’s Centre, and Services Australia. Together they created a welcoming space where culture, connection and wellbeing were at the heart of every activity.
What made this event truly special was the active involvement of multicultural consumers in shaping the day. From planning the program to selecting speakers and designing health service stalls, their lived experience and insights ensures the event was culturally respectful and inclusive.
“Members of the consumer group played a key role in planning the program, advising on culturally appropriate content, and ensuring the voices of older people from diverse backgrounds were front and centre,” says Vinita, Senior Cross Cultural Development Officer.
Mashreka Sarwar, a member of the consumer group and MC for the day, shared her pride in helping create a space where everyone felt heard and valued.
“Being involved in planning and co-hosting the event gave me the opportunity to connect with people from different cultural backgrounds and share important health messages in an engaging and meaningful way,” says Mashreka.
The event featured:
- Health service stalls offering multilingual resources and culturally tailored advice.
- Community ambassadors sharing personal journeys of ageing well.
- Opportunities for connection, with storytelling, networking, and shared meals fostering a sense of belonging.
“I hope our multicultural communities feel proud, inspired, and more confident to look after their health and support each other beyond our celebration. I want everyone to leave the event feeling more connected, informed, and aware of the health resources available to them,” says Mashreka.
NBMLHD looks forward to continuing this collaborative journey, ensuring multicultural voices remain central in shaping health services that support healthy ageing for all.
Read more about the range of programs and activities NBMLHD provides to support Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities in our region: www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nbmlhd/services/multicultural-health