What’s happening?
Settlement Services International (SSI) and the Usman Khawaja Foundation (UKF) have launched a powerful partnership to connect and empower multicultural youth through cricket. The initiative kicked off on 22 April 2025 at Woodridge North State School with a cricket clinic led by Usman Khawaja himself.
Why it matters
This collaboration bridges sport and social inclusion by offering children from migrant and refugee backgrounds an opportunity to thrive through cricket, mentorship, and community engagement. It supports young people’s wellbeing, resilience, and sense of belonging.
“Sport has always been a powerful way to bring people together,” said SSI CEO Violet Roumeliotis.
“Cricket is not just a game — it’s a bridge to new beginnings,” added Usman Khawaja.
Local Impact
Redlands and surrounding areas could benefit from future clinics and community events as the program expands across Queensland, NSW, and Victoria. The initiative builds on SSI’s existing sports inclusion programs already active in the Logan region.
By the Numbers
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Over 20% of youth in QLD identify as from migrant or refugee backgrounds.
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Cricket remains one of Australia’s top 3 most-played organised sports.
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SSI’s Multicultural Sports Club has reached thousands of participants since its inception in Logan.
Zoom In
The first clinic at Woodridge saw students experience cricket for the first time under the guidance of professional coaches and Khawaja himself. Students wore green and gold as they learned the basics of batting, bowling, and fielding — building confidence through active participation.
Zoom Out
This collaboration aligns with national efforts to use sport as a tool for integration, community building, and mental health support for newcomers. It also reflects a wider trend toward grassroots-led inclusion strategies.
What to look for next
The program will grow to include Multicultural Cups, youth mentoring, and an innovation hub co-designed by young people from refugee backgrounds.
“I’m thrilled to be part of a partnership that not only inspires children to play cricket but gives them confidence, resilience, and hope for the future,” said Khawaja.
