From International Student to OAM Recipient: Sam Athukorala’s Journey of Community Leadership

For more than 26 years, Sam Athukorala has dedicated his life in Australia to strengthening communities and advocating for multicultural inclusion. Recently honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), his journey spans grassroots community work, leadership across cultural, sporting and welfare organisations, and his current role as CEO of the Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District. In this interview, Sam reflects on the meaning of the national honour, his experiences working with diverse multicultural communities in regional Australia, and his perspective on migration at a time of growing public debate. The conversation highlights a life shaped by service, resilience and a deep commitment to social cohesion.

Sam Atukorala OAM, CEO of the Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District Inc, recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours for his outstanding service to the multicultural community. Source: Supplied

Awards and Recognition received by Sam Atukorala

• Inductee, Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll, 2022
• AFL Community Ambassador of the Month, Australian Football League, June 2020
• Citizen of the Year, Greater Shepparton, 2019
• Citizen of the Year, Shepparton, 2019
• Police Community Exemplary Award, Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence, 2018
• Community Ambassador of the Year, Cricket Australia, 2018
• Volunteer Champions Award for Service, Victorian Premier, 2017
• Community Ambassador of the Year, Cricket Victoria, 2017-2018
• Diversity Community Ambassador Play Fair Award, Australian Football League, 2017
• Ambassador Award, Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence, 2016
• Male Volunteer of the Year, Greater Shepparton, 2016
• Gold Award, Serendib Awards, Sri Lankan Community in Australia, 2016
• Multicultural Ambassador, Regional, Australian Football League, 2015

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