International humanitarian agency, Act for Peace, has appointed Springfield resident and 2019 Australian of Year QLD Hero Award winner Elijah Buol OAM to the role of Chief Executive Officer.
As a former refugee with extensive experience in human services, advocacy, people management and not-for-profit leadership, and a member of the Anglican Church, Mr Buol is well positioned to lead the organisation as it enters its 75th year of empowering people displaced by conflict and disasters across the globe.
Mr Buol’s journey inspires his humanitarian work in advocating for the unprecedented and growing numbers of displaced people around the globe (currently 114 million*).
“People who are displaced are not just numbers. They are real people with dreams, hopes and aspirations that can be realised,” he said.
“It’s up to us, to create meaningful impact by holding people’s hands – to provide safety so they can explore opportunities to realise their dreams and potential.”
A leader with a vision for change
Mr Buol came to Australia when he was 16 and went on to achieve university qualifications including a Master of Law, Master of Justice in Intelligence, a Bachelor of Human Services and is currently completing a Juris Doctor of Law at the Australian National University.
Throughout his career, Mr. Buol has undertaken numerous leadership roles, such as Acting CEO with the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland, Executive Director of the Refugee Communities Association of Australia, and, most recently, serving as the Queensland State Manager of Migration Support Programs for the Australian Red Cross.
Chair of Act for Peace, Leigh Cleave, is excited to have someone on board with experience and passion.
“His extensive experience in strategic management and policy transformation combined with a genuine passion for our cause and his refugee background, makes Elijah an excellent CEO for Act for Peace,” she said
“We’re delighted to welcome him aboard and look forward to working together to further our work in empowering displaced people to rebuild their lives through locally-led protection policy, advocacy and programs.”
For more information or to donate visit actforpeace.org.au
