The South Sudanese Christian Welfare Association (SSCWA) is a nonprofit organisation committed to empowering children, young people, and families within disadvantaged communities. Based in Australia, our focus is on providing meaningful support that helps individuals thrive socially, educationally, and culturally, with a special emphasis on the South Sudanese community.
At SSCWA, we believe in the power of education and family. Our mission is to offer parental guidance and educational programmes to families whose children may be at risk of disengagement or anti-social behaviour. By doing so, we aim to equip young people with the tools they need to succeed, while fostering a sense of community belonging and cultural pride.
We work to bridge the gap between traditional African values and Australian society, promoting cultural preservation while helping our community integrate and flourish. Through engaging activities such as music, sports, cultural events, and mental health programmes, SSCWA provides a positive outlet for young people, encouraging their active participation and personal growth.
Our work is made possible through meaningful partnerships with local councils, schools, and government representatives, including the Maroondah City Council, Melton City Council, Melton West Primary School, and Members of Parliament such as Steven McGhee. These collaborations have allowed us to implement impactful initiatives like:
Sporting Activities: Encouraging physical health and teamwork.
Homework Clubs: Providing academic support in mathematics and science.
Saturday Dinka Language School: Teaching children the Dinka language, alphabet, and cultural heritage.
A key part of our mission is addressing the challenges faced by at-risk youth, including those involved in anti-social behaviour or the justice system. SSCWA actively collaborates with Youth Justice Programmes to facilitate reintegration into the community. Our outreach includes prison visits, public engagement, and counselling sessions aimed at guiding young people toward a more positive path. By building strong relationships with law enforcement, we work to reduce the over-representation of South Sudanese youth in the justice system.
SSCWA envisions a safe, inclusive, and supportive community where young people are empowered to become responsible, contributing members of Australian society. Through our dedication to education, cultural enrichment, and family support, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future—one where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Together, we can build a stronger community and create opportunities for the next generation. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to hear from you!