Abiola Akinbiyi is a healthcare professional and community advocate who is the founder of Changepreneurs, an organisation that aims to help women of diverse backgrounds reach their full potential. She speaks with Jaidyn Kennedy
Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do?
My name is Abiola, but many people call me Abi, a mum to two beautiful young ladies. I am a community advocate and health professional with over 20 years of experience in the health sector, contributing extensively to CALD communities and not-for-profit organisations across Australia. From 2021 to 2023, I had the privilege of serving as a commissioner with the Victorian Multicultural Commission. As a registered nurse, non-executive director, and entrepreneur, my journey has been fuelled by an unwavering passion for improving the healthcare system, community development and social justice. Healthcare management and advocating for multicultural communities, aged care, women, and youth is at the heart of my work. I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve on many boards where I dedicate and volunteer my time and skills to enhancing healthcare and promoting social cohesion.
What is your connection to Wyndham?
I’ve called Wyndham home for nearly 17 years, raising my two daughters, both of whom attended local schools. I run an event planning business and work in Wyndham, cherishing its vibrant multicultural atmosphere. I’ve collaborated with locals, organisations, and multicultural groups on empowering initiatives and campaigns. I’ve also spoken at many Wyndham events that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Wyndham, for me, reflects my passion for social cohesion.
What about Wyndham do you most like?
My favourite thing about Wyndham is its people – it has a wonderfully multicultural community that feels like home, unlike many suburbs in Australia. I also love Wyndham’s many parks, open spaces, and walking tracks. Whether exploring a new park or taking a peaceful walk along rivers or lakes, there’s always a place to connect with nature and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of this diverse suburb.
Where are some of your favourite places in Wyndham?
It’s hard to pick just one favourite place in Wyndham, but if I had to, it would be Sanctuary Lakes for its relaxing views of water, greenery, and nature. I also love the vibrancy of Watton Street, the convenience of Pacific Werribee as an alternative to Highpoint, and the excitement of Werribee Open Range Zoo. In my opinion, each spot offers something unique and special, making Wyndham a genuinely wonderful place to live and explore.
Can you explain how Changepreneurs came to be?
Changepreneurs is a female-led not-for-profit organisation dedicated to mentoring and empowering African Australian female youth and CALD women to reach their full potential through education, training, and networking. I started it as a self-funded passion project to guide young women in navigating career pathways and providing leadership opportunities. Now, an incorporated organisation that provides programs and networking events for youth and CALD women, it has been a rewarding journey because we’ve had many success stories.
What, if anything, would you change about Wyndham
If I could change anything about Wyndham, the top priority would be improving the public transport system. Currently, commuting just 15 minutes can require both a train and a bus, taking up to an hour and sometimes even a long walk. Additionally, I would focus on securing more funding for local schools and enhancing healthcare access for residents to better serve the community’s needs.
