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Our People
Commitment Compassion
Naseema Mustapha
Founder & Director
Naseema Mustapha – Founder
Welcome to Global Community Development Initiatives, an organisation I established in 2001 in Australia, with outreach across Africa and other regions.
My name is Naseema Mustapha. Originally from South Africa, I have lived in Australia since 1977, and my journey across both contexts has shaped my commitment to community development and inclusive practice.
With a Bachelor of Business, a Master of International Tourism, and as a current PhD researcher in community development, my work is grounded in supporting strong, sustainable, and connected communities. I am passionate about working alongside communities to create practical solutions that respond to real needs and aspirations.
My involvement in mental health advocacy, social justice, and First Nations engagement reflects a deep commitment to building understanding, strengthening relationships, and creating spaces where communities can thrive together.
I have been grateful to receive recognition along the way, however, this work has always been a shared effort - made possible through collaboration, partnerships, and the collective contributions of many people.
Whether you are an individual, organisation, or community, I warmly invite you to join us in working together towards a more inclusive, connected, and sustainable future.
Awards & Recognition
We are grateful to have our work recognised by a number of organisations and communities. These acknowledgements reflect the collective efforts of everyone who has supported, partnered with, and contributed to the work of Global Community Development Initiatives over the years.
Selected recognitions include:
Queensland Mental Health Achievement Awards – Culturally & Linguistically Diverse
Mental Health Advocate (Open Minds & Queensland Government)
Community Service Award (Islamic Council of Queensland)
Zonta International Women in Business Scholarship Awarded on International Women’s Day by Zonta International, a global organisation dedicated to empowering women through service and advocacy.
Griffith University Global Community Service Award
Women Acknowledging Women Award (Victorian Multicultural Association)**
Commonwealth Games 2018
Community Ambassador – South Africa (GOLDOC 2018 Commonwealth Games)
Outstanding Volunteer Award
(Queensland Government – Department of Multicultural Affairs)
Women Acknowledging Women Award (Baasila Women Empowerment)
Griffith University Vice Chancellor’s Awards: * Excellence in Professional and Support Staff Service * A Remarkable Contribution * Excellence in Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Queensland African Communities Council: Women In Leadership & Empowerment
Australian of the Year – Nomination (National Australia Day Council)
We share these recognitions with appreciation and humility. They are a reflection not only of our work, but of the communities, partners, and supporters who make this work possible.
🌿 Other Involvement
We are grateful for opportunities to contribute to broader community, advisory, and sector initiatives. Participation in these spaces allows us to share learning, support collaboration, and strengthen outcomes across communities.
Involvement includes:
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NAIDOC Committee Member
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Queensland African Communities Council Member
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Federation of Ethnic Communities Council – Multicultural Adviser
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National Multicultural Health Collaborative – Adviser
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Australian Multicultural Women’s Alliance – Adviser
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Embrace Multicultural Mental Health – Lived Experience Adviser
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Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group
These roles reflect a shared commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and continuous learning across communities, sectors, and systems.