Sandipan Mitra

Volunteer and advocate for diversity and multiculturalism

2024 ACT Local Hero Nominee

Sandipan Mitra’s journey from a childhood of extreme poverty to community leader is inspiring. A senior bank manager and dedicated father, Sandipan’s volunteer work celebrates diversity and tackles local community issues.  

Among his many initiatives, Sandipan helps children in need by employing low-cost tutors to provide free tuition, and partners with local senior care facilities to provide residents with opportunities for interaction.  

During the COVID lockdowns, Sandipan distributed food and supplies, provided essentials to international students and free meals to healthcare workers, organised online wellbeing seminars, and assisted vulnerable and elderly community members.  

His Stories That Matter event celebrated the lives of Canberra migrants and refugees. Sandipan also stood against the resurgence of racism during lockdowns. 

Sandipan and his team’s barbecues raise money for social causes such as the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Painaustralia and CARE Australia. 

His many contributions foster unity, compassion and inclusivity among the ACT community.