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Kowanj Australasia Limited
Who are we?
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Our Story
“Kowanj” means “help” or “assist” in Dinka, a South Sudanese language — and this word captures the heart of everything we do.
Founded by Ashoup Atar, a passionate advocate and former refugee, Kowanj was born from lived experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities in Australia. In recognition of her impact, Ash was named one of Australia’s Top 100 Women in 2021
With over 8 years of experience, our founder Ash has dedicated her career to supporting migrants and refugees on their journey toward stability and success. As CALD jobseekers often face systemic barriers and under-representation in the workforce, Kowanj was created to bridge that gap — promoting cultural competence and opening pathways to long-term employment.
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Our Vision
Support disadvantaged communities through economic empowerment.
Promote sustainability, development, and independence for overall well-being.
Our Mission
Advocate for the social, employment, and educational needs of African refugees and emerging communities.
Empower women and youth through a series of targeted leadership programs.
Strengthen communities through physical, emotional, financial, and interpersonal development.
Enable community growth, efficiency, civic engagment and social cohesion.
Our Impact
Our efforts have witnessed transformative outcomes for individuals and communities alike.
From securing stable employment for refugees to fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment, our initiatives have made a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.
Empowering Women and Youth
Fostering Social Inclusion
Creating Inclusive Workplaces
Increasing Economic Participation
Promoting Sustainability and Independence
