Ayesha Safdar has dedicated herself to helping newly-arrived migrant and refugee women find their place in Australian society.
In 2010, Ayesha founded the Adelaide Pakistani Women’s Association (APWA) to create a safe, inclusive space for Pakistani women adjusting to life in Australia. Today, the association works with women from all backgrounds, helping them to navigate their way through a new culture and acquire language skills, education and employment. Ayesha is empowering women to build their confidence and develop the skills they need to create a new life in Australia.
Under her leadership, the APWA runs cultural events, promotes small businesses run by women and creates education pathways for women by connecting them to training in childcare, nursing and community services.
Ayesha’s tireless work in empowering women and building bridges between communities has been hugely influential in promoting social inclusion in South Australia and beyond.