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Violet Roumeliotis
Social entrepreneur and advocate for vulnerable communities
Professional Background
Violet Roumeliotis AM is a distinguished social entrepreneur and an influential advocate for diversity and inclusion in Australia. With an extensive and impressive career, she currently serves as the CEO of Settlement Services International (SSI), a prominent community organization and social enterprise dedicated to supporting newcomers and vulnerable populations across the nation. Under her leadership, SSI has expanded significantly—from a modest Sydney-based organization with only 68 staff members to a robust workforce of over 900 employees, providing life-changing support to more than 37,600 individuals each year. This remarkable growth reflects Violet's unwavering commitment to fostering social justice and equity, while leveraging innovation and collective impact in her approach.
Violet’s career is not only defined by her role at SSI; she is a respected voice on numerous boards and committees that aim to empower diverse communities and promote positive social change. Throughout her tenure, her expertise in community management and social issues has shone through in various appointments, including her participation on the board of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) and the SBS Community Advisory Committee. Violet has also contributed her insights to the Australian Human Rights Commission’s Expert Advisory Group for the 'Racism. It Stops With Me' campaign, showcasing her dedication to combating racism and advocating for inclusivity at all levels of society.
Education and Achievements
Violet's academic achievements lay the foundation for her successful career in social entrepreneurship. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and History from the University of New South Wales, which provides her with a critical understanding of social dynamics and historical contexts. Moreover, she has honed her leadership skills through several prestigious programs, including a Master's in Management, Community Management at the University of Technology, Sydney, and the Graduate Company Directors Course at the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the community, Violet was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2020, a prestigious honor awarded in acknowledgment of her outstanding service. Additionally, in 2017, she was celebrated as the Telstra Business Woman of the Year, further solidifying her status as a leader in the social enterprise sector. In 2018, Violet was named one of the Australian Financial Review’s Top 100 Women of Influence, as well as the 2018 InStyle Women of Style Community Champion, highlights that underscore her significant impact on the community and her relentless pursuit of equity and inclusion.
Notable Contributions
Violet's outstanding career also includes numerous significant contributions to various councils and committees aimed at enhancing the welfare of underrepresented groups. She has been actively involved with the Leadership Council on Cultural Diversity, the NSW government’s joint partnership working group overseeing refugee resettlement, and the UTS Business MBA Advisory Group, among others. Each of these roles showcases her dedication to integrating voices from diverse backgrounds into the decision-making processes, thereby enhancing collective outcomes for marginalized communities.
Furthermore, as a former Chairperson of Settlement Services International and Executive Director at Metro Assist, Violet has played a pivotal role in shaping policies and programs designed to improve the lives of thousands across Australia. Her tenure as Co-Chair at the NSW Joint Partnership Working Group for Refugee Resettlement is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights her commitment to advancing refugee rights and facilitating successful resettlement processes for individuals seeking a new life in Australia.
Violet's extensive involvement also includes serving on the International Steering Committee for The International Metropolis Project, a platform dedicated to sharing best practices and fostering collaboration among cities worldwide to effectively manage migration. Her experience positions her as a critical thought leader in shaping Australia’s approach to migration and social justice.
Conclusion
Violet Roumeliotis AM stands as a remarkable figure in the social enterprise and community services sector, widely recognized for her leadership, passion, and dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion. With a strong educational background and a wealth of experience gained from her various board roles and initiative-driven projects, Violet continues to inspire those around her. Her achievements are a testament to her commitment to creating equitable opportunities for all members of society. As both a strategist and a compassionate leader, Violet exemplifies the power of community engagement and collaboration in driving sustainable social change.