List of ambassadors includes several players and industry and community leaders, who will support goals outlined in Multicultural Action Plan
MELBOURNE: Cricket Australia proudly launched its Multicultural Ambassador Program, appointing 54 individuals from diverse backgrounds, spanning government, business, sport, media, and community sectors as inaugural representatives.
The Ambassador Program, a key initiative from the Australian Cricket Multicultural Action Plan, unites esteemed leaders to advocate for inclusivity and drive positive change in cricket and the wider community.
Among the ambassadors are past and present players, industry and community leaders, who will champion diversity and support the goals of the Multicultural Action Plan.
Inaugural ambassadors include Usman Khawaja, Mel Jones, Wasim Akram, Ravi Shastri, Lisa Sthalekar, Kishwar Chowdhury, Alana King, Peter Varghese, Swati Dave, and Fawad Ahmed. The full list of ambassadors can be found on Cricket Australia’s website.
These ambassadors will focus on five key areas of the Multicultural Action Plan: Participation, High Performance, People and Representation, Communications and Engagement, and Event and Experience. They will offer leadership and support to foster greater connectivity across Australian cricket.
Cricket Australia CEO, Nick Hockley, expressed enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to welcome such a dynamic and diverse group as Multicultural Ambassadors. Their leadership and passion will be crucial in fostering a more inclusive cricketing community.”
“The Multicultural Ambassador Program underscores Cricket Australia’s commitment to reflecting contemporary Australian society and embracing individuals from all backgrounds. Through collaboration, the program aims to ensure cricket remains a welcoming sport for all.”
Usman Khawaja stated: “I am proud to be one of Cricket Australia’s Multicultural Ambassadors. Cricket connects communities and fosters understanding, respect, and unity. We need greater representation of the community in the sport by creating opportunities and celebrating our shared love for the game.”
Former player and commentator Lisa Sthalekar added: “Being a Multicultural Ambassador is an incredible honor. Cricket unites people from all backgrounds, and I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome.”
The ambassadors, engaged for an initial two-year period, reflect a broad spectrum of cultural backgrounds, including Indian, Sri Lankan, Pakistani, Indigenous Australian, Bangladeshi, Nepali, and Afghani communities. This diverse composition ensures a comprehensive approach to addressing diversity and inclusion challenges in cricket and society.
