Our Founder

Roots of Hope founded by Dieudonne Damiens known as Don, who  migrated to Australia from East Africa, Burundi in 2007, seeking better opportunities in life. Don obtained his Victorian Certificate of Education, and went on to complete a Diploma, Bachelors and Master Degree in Social Sciences, and is currently studying a masters in Mental Health and Counselling.

Driven by his own challenges as a migrant, Don wanted to help others going through similar experiences. He dedicated his extra time to giving back, and worked as a youth worker, case manager, and project coordinator at various private and nonprofit organisations.

 

Don’s own journey with mental health taught him the importance of prioritising wellbeing and seeking help when needed. Reflecting on his own experiences and the cultural and social difficulties he faced when he first arrived in Australia, Dieudonne founded Roots of Hope with the aim of providing culturally-specific services to those who most need it.

 

Don’s driving passion is to support young adults, fellow migrants and refugees living in Victoria who are struggling to reach their potential. It is his dream to see them find hope, meaning and purpose in their new lives in Australia.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our Mission:

To empower young adults and migrants to flourish in their new communities through comprehensive support, educational training, and mental health outreach programs. Our goal is to create an inclusive and integrated multi-cultural community where individuals can live their lives to the fullest.

 

Our Vision:

Our vision is for a world where young adults and migrants are valued and have access to the resources necessary for success and well-being. We strive to break down barriers and promote understanding, so that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

 

Our Values:

Hope

We instil hope in young adults; enabling them to envision a brighter future. 

 

Compassion

We foster generous and kind support in our words and actions.

 

 

Empowerment

We empower those most affected by critical social challenges to find creative

ways to resolve their problems and make a positive contribution to society.

 

Inclusion

We embrace and open our hearts to all people without exception.

 

 

 

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Our Team:

 

 

Title: Social Worker & Volunteer Coordinator

Ciara Browns has worked as Forensic Case Manager, Youth and Families Social Worker over 10 years.

Her duties entailed advocating on behalf of clients especially those most vulnerable youth, young adults, and their families.

After studying at University of South Australia and acquired a Bachelor of Social Worker in 2016. Ciara moved to Melbourne and has then been involved in many paid and voluntary community-based organisations such as Roots of Hope.

Ciara is passionate about supporting those less fortunate in our society. She does this through her cross-cultural awareness and communication skills developed through her experience in engaging with clients from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures.