Volunteer: Dulith, WA
Meet Dulith.
Dulith is one of our valued volunteers. He says, “I enjoy volunteering for an organisation that provides directives not to work for but to work with our respected First Nations communities in WA and Australia. It’s been fantastic to work with and support these great community organisations so far.”
In the short Q&A below, you will learn more about Dulith’s journey as a volunteer with our organisation.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I was happily born and bred in Sri Lanka. I moved to Australia when I was 19. I studied Corporate Finance at Curtin University and worked as an Accountant, where I completed my CPA. Afterwards, I went to Law School, where I completed a Bachelor of Laws, and recently passed the Bar to be admitted as a Lawyer in the State of Western Australia. I have enjoyed volunteering for about two and a half years with Community First Development.
What motivated you to become a volunteer with Community First Development?
I was told about Community First Development by a Tibetan Buddhist Monk at the temple I attend. He informed me of an organisation that has an intention to create a pathway in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to close the gap, and a fair go for all.
What has been your most significant learning while volunteering alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities?
I have learned to mediate effectively with the City of Armadale, National Disability Insurance Agency, the State of Western Australia, and the Federal Government in conjunction with other First Nations and non-First Nations stakeholders on the Organisation's portfolio.
Tell us a bit about some of the projects you were involved with?
Indigenous business development, strategic planning, corporate governance, accounting and administrative reviews, auditing current policies and procedures including out of date and new policies purchased, collaborated in the re-writing of past policies that better reflect the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander corporations current purpose and provided directions along with scaffoldings to write new policies and processes.
How did your volunteering fill a gap?
My academic and practice background in business, finance and law provided the skills and competencies required to assist First Nations organisations and communities reach their true potential, thereby assisting community members to develop and build their capacity.