Councillor recognised for contribution to women’s health and wellbeing

Balga Ward Councillor and Chief Executive Officer of Ishar Multicultural Women’s Health Service, Andrea Creado has been honoured with an achievement award for her project to support older refugee and migrant women facing severe social isolation and loneliness.

Minister for Finance, Commerce and Women’s Interests Hon Sue Ellery MLC presented the award to Councillor Creado at the recent Soroptimist International of Western Australia 70th Charter Dinner.

The award is related to Councillor Creado’s leadership of Ishar’s Connected Community Program, which aims to foster social integration and address the growing issue of isolation amongst one of the most vulnerable cohorts of CaLD women in Mirrabooka, Cannington and surrounding suburbs.

Soroptimist International WA – the award sponsor – is a global volunteer network of around 70,000 members in 121 countries, advocating for human rights and gender equality in line with Ishar’s vision.

Mayor Mark Irwin said Ishar had been a crucial service operating in the local community for decades, so it was no surprise to see Councillor Creado recognised for her leadership of Ishar.

“For three decades, Ishar has been dedicated to supporting vulnerable women and families from refugee and migrant backgrounds,” he said.

“Ishar's impact is profound; they provide services to over 2,500 women from over 80 ethnicities each year, delivering over 80,000 contacts.

“In the area of women’s health alone, Ishar provides reproductive health and antenatal care, mental health services and specialised services across pregnancy, childbirth, perinatal support, education and Well Women’s checks.

“We are extremely proud to have someone of Councillor Creado's talent, passion, knowledge and dedication to the community on our diverse and high-performing Council.”

Chair of the Soroptimist International WA Selection Committee, Dr Rosemary Cant, said that the field was outstanding and all nominees more than met the selection criteria in terms of their achievements and level of community engagement.

“Andrea’s contribution to women’s wellbeing and to the community in her professional life and as a volunteer is exceptional,” she said.

“An immigrant herself, she began volunteering at Ishar Multicultural Women’s Health Services in 2001 and in 2006 she was appointed Chief Executive Officer. In that role she has overseen a 500 per cent increase in core services and she was instrumental in establishing the Centre for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing and also the Naala Djookan Healing Centre.”