Community Impact Award 2026 – Presented by the Premier of NSW Chris Minns MP
Indian-Australian Philanthropy: A Legacy of Giving and Community Impact
You’ve heard of Indian entrepreneurs. But did you know they’re also feeding the homeless, funding hospitals, and many more?
The Indian-Australian community has long been celebrated for its entrepreneurial spirit, cultural richness, and economic impact. But alongside business success stories is a quieter force that has been reshaping lives and communities across the country: philanthropy. Whether in the form of disaster relief, arts funding, educational scholarships, or social justice programs, Indian-Australians are making their mark through compassion and action.
Champions of Change
Amar Singh – Founder, Turbans 4 Australia
Born in India and migrating to Australia as a teenager, Amar Singh turned personal experiences of racial abuse into a powerful mission of community service. In 2015, he founded Turbans 4 Australia, which now delivers food hampers, disaster relief, and emergency aid across New South Wales and beyond. The organisation has become a lifeline during national crises like the bushfires and COVID-19 lockdowns. Amar’s approach is not just charitable, it’s educational, fostering understanding of Sikh identity through service. In recognition of his impact, he was awarded Australia’s Local Hero in 2023.
Lucky Singh – Co-founder, Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchenette Sydney
Lucky Singh co-founded GNFKS with her husband Balbir Singh in 2012, drawing inspiration from Sikh teachings on equality and community service. Each week, their team prepares and serves hot vegetarian meals to homeless individuals at Martin Place in Sydney. But GNFKS offers more than food—it offers dignity, consistency, and hope. With volunteers from diverse faiths and backgrounds, the initiative stands as a multicultural model of selfless service in action.
Philip Wollen OAM – Philanthropist and Animal Rights Advocate
Once a senior executive at Citibank, Philip Wollen changed course after witnessing cruelty and injustice firsthand. Today, his Winsome Constance Kindness Trust supports over 500 humanitarian and environmental projects in more than 40 countries. Wollen champions the philosophy that “kindness is the mark of a civilised society,” funding shelters, schools, and animal rescue operations worldwide. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia and continues to be a global ambassador for compassionate living.
Preeti Kansal – Women’s Rights Advocate
Preeti Kansal chose to break free from traditional expectations and channel her energy into women’s empowerment within the Indian-Australian community. Through education initiatives, peer support groups, and leadership development programs, she provides migrant women with opportunities to build confidence, gain skills, and grow into self-sufficient community leaders. Her efforts reflect a strong commitment to equity and cultural sensitivity, especially for women navigating new lives in Australia.
Basil Sellers AM – Businessman and Cultural Patron
An Indian-born Australian businessman, Basil Sellers migrated in 1948 and went on to leave a lasting legacy in sport and the arts. He founded the Basil Sellers Art Prize, which celebrates works that explore the intersection of art and sport. Beyond the arts, he has supported cricket development, Olympic athletes, and Indigenous programs. His philanthropy is underpinned by a vision of inclusivity, fairness, and cultural elevation. Sellers was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his contributions.
Organisations like Turbans 4 Australia and GNFKS began as small volunteer-led initiatives and evolved into highly respected operations. During the pandemic and in the wake of climate disasters, they filled critical service gaps. More importantly, they’ve become symbols of how multicultural values can align with practical action. Their efforts go beyond charity, they build social trust.
A report by the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation underscores how the Indian diaspora contributes to infrastructure and healthcare, not only in India but also in regional Australia. But there’s a shift underway: many diaspora donors are increasingly prioritising local causes such as youth development, education equity, and Indigenous inclusion. This reflects a maturing identity, rooted in heritage, yet grounded in Australian social values.
Vinita Baravkar – Founder, Bhumi Organic Cotton
Vinita Baravkar is a trailblazer in sustainable fashion. Through her company Bhumi Organic Cotton, she’s disrupting fast fashion by offering ethical, Fairtrade, and toxin-free textiles. Her supply chain supports organic farmers and environmentally conscious manufacturing. Vinita’s business is not just about product, it’s about creating a fairer, healthier industry that respects both the planet and its people.
Manpreet Sekhon – Restaurateur & Mentor
Known for her flair in modern Indian cuisine, Manpreet owns acclaimed Melbourne restaurants including Elchi, Masti, and Eastern Spice. But beyond cooking, she mentors migrant women entering hospitality. Her work provides employment pathways, business training, and role modelling in an industry that can be tough for newcomers. She’s become a respected voice for culinary excellence and women’s empowerment.
Sara Singh Tak – Founder, Humans of Australia
Sara launched Humans of Australia to spotlight the untold stories of everyday Australians. Her interviews highlight diverse migrant experiences, from heartbreak and hope to perseverance and success. What started as a social media project has now become a storytelling movement, building empathy in a time when division is often louder than connection.
Sheba Nandkeolyar – Multicultural Media Advocate
Sheba Nandkeolyar is President of the International Advertising Association Australia and CEO of MultiConnexions, one of the country’s leading multicultural marketing firms. She’s dedicated her career to making Australian media more representative of the communities it serves. From advising government campaigns to mentoring South Asian creatives, Sheba is rewriting the rules on who gets seen—and how.
The Bhati Family, led by economist Dr U.N. Bhati in Canberra, has supported bilateral initiatives between Australia and India, especially through academic institutions like the Australian National University (ANU). Their philanthropic efforts strengthen ties in areas like agricultural policy, public health, and international development.
Meanwhile, the Australia India Institute (AII) at the University of Melbourne continues to study the evolving role of diaspora philanthropy, contributing to public policy and cultural understanding through detailed case research.
Recognition and Legacy
Several Indian-Australian philanthropists have been formally recognised for their service:
- Ratan Tata received the Order of Australia (AO) for his contribution to humanitarian work and bilateral relations
- Amar Singh was named 2023 Australia’s Local Hero
- Philip Wollen received the Medal of the Order of Australia
- Basil Sellers was appointed Member of the Order of Australia (AM)
These honours are not just accolades, they are reflections of lives lived with purpose and generosity.
Indian-Australian philanthropy is no longer in the shadows. It is central to the country’s evolving multicultural identity. From refugee relief to climate initiatives, arts funding to storytelling platforms, this growing network of givers is challenging the notion that success stops at self.
In their quiet, determined way, these philanthropists are asking: If not us, then who?
