Curtin University’s Diversity and Equity Senior Advisor, Sheldon Smith, has been awarded the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA’s (CCIWA) Individual Change Maker Award for his exceptional efforts in fostering inclusive and equitable workplaces.
The award recognises outstanding leadership, innovation and commitment to creating exemplary workplace environments where people from all backgrounds feel valued, empowered and able to contribute their unique perspectives.
Curtin Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne said Mr Smith is a dedicated leader and highly regarded mentor whose efforts have helped expand the University’s diversity and inclusion initiatives.
“Sheldon embodies the spirit of this award through his more than decade-long mission to cultivate inclusive environments at Curtin and beyond, creating connections and nurturing a sense of belonging,” Professor Hayne said.
“He has worked tirelessly to progress, educate and champion a wide array of activities and initiatives with a particular focus on the inclusion of people of diverse sex, sexualities and gender as well as women.
“Curtin is immensely proud of Sheldon’s contributions and his well-deserved recognition. His work continues to make a significant impact on both the University and the broader community.”
Mr Smith plays a key role in University employee onboarding, he leads Curtin’s LGBTIQA+ Ally training program and is a key facilitator of the MATE Bystander intervention program.
His advocacy through awareness-raising and empowerment in everyday allyship has informed several impactful policies and practices, including:
- Inclusion of paid Gender Affirmation Leave in Curtin’s Enterprise Bargaining Agreement
- Development of an Inclusive Language Guide for the University
- The establishment of a Trans Family Network
- Diversification of gender options on the HR system
- Delivery of training to schools and community organisations
Mr Smith said he was honoured to receive the CCIWA Individual Change Maker Award.
“This has been a deeply personal and rewarding journey. Harnessing my lived experiences to educate and empower others is a privilege,” Mr Smith said.
“The entire community benefits when awareness and understanding of the challenges and barriers faced by historically marginalised people is shared and I am grateful for the opportunity to drive meaningful change.
“Doing this work has a ripple effect beyond the University and this recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of everyone at Curtin who is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment.”
CCIWA Chief Executive, Chris Rodwell, said the CCIWA Diversity and Inclusion Awards were a chance to recognise the West Australian businesses and organisations that were going above and beyond to make WA a more equitable place to live, work and do business.
“The high calibre of nominees for the awards shows how seriously WA businesses are taking diversity and inclusion,” Mr Rodwell said.
“In recognising their achievements, we hope to inspire others to pursue their own journeys to build workplaces where every person can thrive and contribute meaningfully to advance WA.”
