Rishi Prabhakar Launches Brinbeal Ward Campaign with Strong Message of Inclusivity and Community Empowerment in Wyndham Council
"Together, we can make Wyndham a place where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to make a difference. Let's get together to build a better Wyndham, for ourselves and future generations."
On a crisp spring-like morning in Wyndham City, Rishi Prabhakar a candidate for the ‘Brinbeal Ward’ in the upcoming Wyndham City Council elections came to meet the wider community and answer questions about his campaign.
To everyone’s surprise, the event held at the Feronia Avenue Park in Tarneit attracted a large gathering of local community leaders, supporters, and residents who came to hear the inspirational story of a man who has dedicated his time to community service.
A Journey of Resilience and Commitment
Rishi Prabhakar’s story is a remarkable one, highlighting the resilience and determination of a multicultural community member who has risen to the challenge of building a successful life in Australia.
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Arriving in 2003 as an international student, Rishi faced the typical struggles of a newcomer, working long hours in minimal-wage jobs, including stints in a restaurant and as a security guard. Despite the hardships, he remained focused on his goals and, in 2005, became a Permanent Resident of Australia.
“From the very beginning, it was always my passion to assist others so they don’t have to go through the same challenges I faced,” Rishi shared with the crowd, his voice filled with sincerity.
“I wanted to create a path where everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to the community.”
Rishi’s journey from an international student to a respected community leader is a testament to his unwavering commitment to giving back. Now a married man with two young children, he juggles his family responsibilities, professional work, and extensive community service seven days a week.
His professional background in accounting has been instrumental in his work, but Rishi decided to shift his focus entirely toward community service in 2016, believing that true change comes from active involvement rather than mere complaints.
“In 2016 and again in 2020, I gained invaluable experience and learned important lessons about the power of grassroots involvement,”Rishi said.
“Instead of complaining, I realised it was time to take action and be the change I wanted to see in my community.”
A Leader During the Pandemic
Rishi’s leadership and dedication to the community became particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognising the struggles faced by international students, newly arrived migrants, and residents, he established an international helpline and a student support line to assist those in need.
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His efforts extended further when he became part of the initiative called the “Wyn Bus Service” for residents of a new estate in Wyndham, addressing the lack of local transportation options.
“The pandemic was a challenging time for all of us,” Rishi reflected.
“But it was also a time when we saw the importance of community and the impact that one person can make by stepping up and offering help. I’m proud of what we accomplished together during those difficult months, and it solidified my belief in the power of community-led initiatives.”
Campaign Message: “Let’s Get Together to Build a Better Wyndham”
The central theme of Rishi’s campaign is encapsulated in his message: “Let’s get together to build a better Wyndham.” This message resonates with many in the community who have seen the positive changes that inclusive and collaborative leadership can bring.
Rishi’s vision for Wyndham is one where every resident, regardless of their background, has a voice and can contribute to the city’s growth and development
Community leaders and supporters took to the stage to share their thoughts on the importance of multicultural representation in local government.
Community Leaders Voice Their Support
Biren Joshi one of the most prominent names working within the Wyndham community said, “Today’s event was more than just a community meet and suggestions session”
“It was a celebration of the diverse and vibrant community that makes up Wyndham City.
A notable aspect of the event was the inclusion of support messages delivered in various languages, reflecting the multicultural fabric of Wyndham City. Leaders spoke in Telugu, Gujarati, Rajasthani, and Haryanavi languages ensuring that the message of inclusivity reached as many community members as possible.
Vibrant Gujarati community leaders Champaksinh Ravalji, Chiketan Patel, Chetan Patel, Pragnesh Shah, Jaydipsinh Vachhani and Jayrajsinh Jadeja extended their support to Rishi’s campaign.
“Rishi Prabhakar is not just a candidate; he is one of us,” said Pragnesh Shah, a local community leader who addressed the gathering in Gujarati.
“He understands our struggles, our dreams, and our hopes. His leadership during the pandemic proved that he is a man of action, not just words. We need someone like him who can represent our voices in the council.”
Speaking in Telugu, Laxmi and Venkat Nookala, echoed similar sentiments: “Rishi’s journey from an international student to a community leader is something we all admire.”
“He is committed to making Wyndham a place where everyone can thrive, no matter where they come from.”
Vara Ammina giving the message in Telugu
In Rajasthani (Marwari), Jitendra Sharma, emphasised the need for inclusive representation: “For too long, our communities have been under-represented. With Rishi, we have someone who understands our needs and is ready to fight for them.”
He has my full support, and I urge all of you to stand with him.”
Finally, From the Haryanavi Australian Community Pardeep Redhu, Raj Sahu, Dinesh Sahu, Parmod Tomor, Rishi Manna and Dr Sachin Dahiya were present.
Pradeep Radu highlighted Rishi’s dedication to education and youth: “Rishi knows the importance of education and the challenges our youth face. He has been a mentor to many, and his vision for a better Wyndham includes better opportunities for our children.”
A Strong Vision for Wyndham’s Future
As the event drew to a close, Rishi Prabhakar addressed the crowd with a heartfelt message of unity and hope.
“Wyndham is a city of diverse cultures, ideas, and dreams,” he said.
“Together, we can build a community where everyone has a place, where every voice is heard, and where we all work together for the common good.”
“My commitment is to ensure that our council reflects the diversity of our city and that our policies and decisions are made with the input of all residents,” he added.
Rishi’s campaign promises to focus on key issues such as improving local infrastructure, increasing access to essential services, supporting small businesses, and enhancing educational opportunities for youth. He also plans to continue his work in community outreach, ensuring that the needs of all residents are addressed, particularly those in marginalised and under-represented groups.
The Road Ahead
As Rishi Prabhakar embarks on his campaign for the Brinbeal Ward, the support he has garnered from the community is a clear indication of his impact as a leader and his potential to bring about positive change in Wyndham City. His story of resilience, commitment, and service resonates with many, making him a strong contender in the upcoming council elections.
In his closing remarks, Rishi urged the community to join him in his mission to build a better Wyndham.
“This is not just my campaign; it’s our campaign,”he said.
“Together, we can make Wyndham a place where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to make a difference. Let’s get together to build a better Wyndham, for ourselves and future generations.”
With the campaign officially underway, all eyes are on Rishi Prabhakar as he continues to inspire and mobilise the community toward a brighter future for Wyndham City.
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