- Registered Australian Charity · ACNC Certified
Empowering
Communities.
Changing Lives.
Kowanj Australasia connects refugees and migrants with employment, education, and belonging in Australia — because everyone deserves the chance to thrive.
Who We Are
About Kowanj Australasia
Founded in 2014 by Ashoup Atar — a former South Sudanese refugee — Kowanj Australasia was born from lived experience. "Kowanj" means help or assist in the Dinka language, and it is the mission that drives every program we deliver.
We are a registered charity certified by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and Social Traders, delivering employment and education services to African Australian and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities.
In 2012, we were honoured with the Victorian Multicultural Award for Excellence in Education — recognition of the real, measurable impact our work has on communities across Victoria and beyond.
ACNC Registered Charity
Social Traders Certified Social Enterprise
2022 Victorian Multicultural Award — Education
2014
Founded
What We Do
Our Programs
Six tailored programs designed to break down barriers and build pathways to employment, education, and community.
Ready for Work
A pre-employment program equipping long-term unemployed African Australians with the practical skills, confidence, and connections to enter the workforce.
Cultural Awareness Workshops
Interactive workshops that increase cultural understanding, promote inclusion, and build more respectful, productive workplaces for employers and employees alike.
Culturally Sensitive Counselling
Qualified professional counsellors provide mental health support tailored to the cultural backgrounds and lived experiences of CALD communities.
Fresh Start Program
Reintegration support for ex-offenders, providing a structured pathway back into the workforce through skills development, mentoring, and employer partnerships.
Holistic Women's Program
Comprehensive employment pathways for women from disadvantaged CALD backgrounds — addressing barriers holistically through training, support, and community connection.
Employer Required Training
Tailored pre-employment and workplace training delivered to employer specifications — ensuring new hires are job-ready from day one.
By the Numbers
Our Impact in Numbers
A decade of purposeful action — delivering real change for individuals, families, and communities.
Our Community
Who We Serve
Kowanj brings together community participants and the partners who support them.
- Partners & Stakeholders
- Federal, State & Local Government Agencies
- Philanthropic Foundations & Grant Bodies
- Corporate Employers & Industry Partners
- Community Organisations & Peak Bodies
- Training Registered Organisations (RTOs)
- Health & Social Service Providers
- Universities & Educational Institutions
- Community Participants
- Refugees & Humanitarian Entrants
- Migrants & New Australians
- African Australian Community Members
- Women from Disadvantaged CALD Backgrounds
- Young People (CALD Youth 15–24)
- Long-term Unemployed Job Seekers
- Ex-offenders Seeking Reintegration Support
Work With Us
Partner With Us
We connect employers with skilled, work-ready candidates from diverse backgrounds — supported every step of the way. Whether you're seeking your next great hire or looking for your next opportunity, Kowanj is here.
"I have appreciated your teaching and understanding for my peace of learning."
— Catherine Sydone, Student
Trust & Recognition
Our Partners & Certifications
We are proud to work alongside leading government, philanthropic, and community organisations.
ACNC Registered Charity
Social Traders Certified
Victorian Government
Department of Employment
Victoria Police
Multicultural Victoria
Brotherhood of St. Laurence
AMES Australia
Help Us Change More Lives
Your donation supports employment, education, and empowerment for Australia's most vulnerable communities — giving people the chance to build a life they're proud of.
