The Oromo Community in Melbourne Inc.
The Oromo Community in Melbourne Inc. (OCM) is a not-for-profit organization established to provide community support to the Oromo diaspora in Victoria, Australia. It plays a vital role in preserving Oromo culture, history, and language while addressing the social, educational, and settlement needs of its members. Below is a detailed overview of the organization, its mission, vision, values, activities, and leadership:
Overview of Oromo Community in Melbourne Inc. (OCM)
Established: To serve the Oromo community in Victoria, Australia.
Purpose: To provide educational, cultural, and social support to the Oromo community, particularly refugees and immigrants from Oromia, Ethiopia.
Recognition: Recognized both within and outside the Oromo community for its contributions to cultural preservation and community development.
Mission and Vision
Vision: To build a resilient community that cares for the well-being of all its members.
Mission: To strengthen the Oromo community through engagement, consultation, connection, and cooperation within the Oromo and wider Australian communities.
Core Values
Trust, Integrity, and Transparency: Building confidence within the community through honest and open practices.
Respect for All: Valuing diversity and treating everyone with dignity.
Flexibility and Responsiveness: Adapting to community needs and proactively addressing challenges.
Quality and Innovation: Delivering excellent services through continuous improvement and innovation.
Affordability and Sustainability: Ensuring services are accessible and sustainable for the future.
Key Activities and Programs
Cultural and Language Programs:
Teaching Oromo language, history, and culture to children and youth.
Celebrating cultural events such as Irreecha (Thanksgiving Day) and Family Day.
Educational Support:
Providing literacy and numeracy lessons.
Organizing conferences, workshops, and training sessions.
Community Development:
Building youth and women’s associations to empower these groups.
Offering primary health education and health programs.
Refugee Settlement Support:
Assisting new Oromo refugees with settlement through partnerships with organizations like the Migrant Resource Centre.
Collaborating with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) on refugee-related issues.
Human Rights Advocacy:
Educating members about the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Promoting tolerance, peace, and social justice.
Collaboration with Other Organizations:
Working with Oromo and non-Oromo organizations to address issues such as natural disasters and human errors.
Leadership
2019-2020 Executive Committee:
Chairperson: Mr. Alemayehu Kube Warat
Secretary: Mr. Dhabessa Wakjira
Treasurer: Ms. Lensa Dinka
Program Coordinator: Mr. Jalel Gurmessa
Event Coordinator: Mr. Iyas Enoro
Previous Executive Team:
Chairperson: Mr. Mekonon Fayissa
Members: Mr. Fikadu Dinagde,
Mr. Danye Defersha,
Mr. Dereje Fayissa, and
Mr. Kelbessa.
Why OCM Exists
To support the Oromo community in South East Melbourne, particularly refugees and immigrants who fled persecution in Oromia, Ethiopia.
To provide a safe space for Oromo Australians to celebrate their culture, language, and history without fear of persecution.
How OCM Behaves
With integrity and professionalism.
By listening, adapting, and learning from the community.
By respecting community members and their families.
What OCM Does
Creates equal opportunities for Oromo community members to access education, employment, and independence.
Builds partnerships with local, state, and federal governments to establish multipurpose community centres.
Raises awareness about Oromo issues and advocates for the community at various levels.
Contact Information
Advocacy for Oromia 