Open To Work
Mengistu Hailu
Heathwood,Australia
Work Preference
Summary
I am an experienced community services leader with a strong commitment to social justice, human rights and supporting vulnerable individuals. Through my work at the Romero Centre and across New Zealand and Australia, I have developed deep insight into the challenges faced by refugees, asylum seekers and disadvantaged community members, particularly those experiencing trauma, mental health concerns, family violence and civil conflict. Arriving in New Zealand as a refugee/asylum seeker shaped my resilience, empathy and holistic approach to care. I have built a career grounded in advocacy, cultural humility and a dedication to improving the wellbeing and dignity of people facing hardship. With extensive experience as Manager of the Romero Centre, Support Facilitator and Case Coordinator, I have led multicultural teams, managed complex and culturally sensitive cases, and strengthened service delivery across diverse community settings. My practice is informed by strong critical thinking, active listening and a deep commitment to empowering individuals and communities.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Manager
Romero Centre
04.2022 - Current
- Developing and implementing strategies to strengthen service delivery, improve operational efficiency, and align programs with the mission of the Romero Centre.
- Overseeing long-term planning to ensure financial sustainability and responsiveness to community needs.
- Leading a multidisciplinary team and providing supervision, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to enhance team performance and collaboration.
- Promoting human dignity and social justice by advocating for the rights and needs of refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable individuals.
- Building strong partnerships with external stakeholders to amplify support and resources.
- Managing the day-to-day operations of the centre, including budgeting, expense tracking, and resource allocation.
- Ensuring compliance with organizational policies and maintained smooth service delivery for clients and families.
- Under the Archdiocese Ministries, before transition under Mercy Community Services
Case Coordinator
Romero Centre
10.2016 - 04.2021
- Stepped into the role of Acting Manager multiple times, led a team of social workers and psychologists in the absence of the manager.
- Created a healthy and supportive environment for participants by respecting privacy, confidentiality, cultural values, sexual orientation, and other sensitive matters.
- Conducted initial and comprehensive assessments, identifying needs and connecting participants with appropriate services.
- Offered emotional support to participants facing challenges such as mental health, grief, trauma, financial stress, homelessness, visa issues, and relationship problems.
- Provided comprehensive support to individuals by addressing diverse needs, including financial assistance, access to pantry items and vouchers, employment guidance, housing support, English as a Second Language (ESL) services, and other essential resources.
Support Facilitator
Harmony Place Multicultural Mental Health and Wellbeing
10.2013 - 10.2016
- Provided direct client support by assisting with housing, employment, financial challenges, health services, and other practical needs.
- Facilitate peer and family engagement through support groups, partnerships with schools and services, and community connections that foster resilience.
- Conduct assessments and manage caseloads, including intake, triage, risk evaluations, and coordination of multidisciplinary supports for complex needs.
- Advocate for clients within health, education, and social service systems while ensuring privacy, dignity, and trauma-informed, client-centre care.
- Maintain professional standards by keeping accurate documentation, promoting independence, and encouraging long-term well-being through recovery-focused strategies.
Access Community Services Ltd
05.2013 - 10.2013
- Assisted refugees and migrants, to access housing, employment, education, and health services.
- Conducted culturally sensitive needs assessments and developing tailored support plans.
- Linked participants to essential services such as banks, Medicare, tax file registration, and local orientation.
- Coordinated services by connecting clients with community organisations, government agencies, and specialist providers.
- Supported capacity building by helping clients develop skills, confidence, and independence to thrive in their new communities.
- Maintaining accurate case notes, progress reports, and ensuring compliance with organisational standards.
Social Worker
Anglican Trust for Women and Children
01.2013 - 03.2013
- Built respectful, trusting relationships with children and families.
- Supported students with poor attendance, low engagement, and social or behavioural challenges.
- Assisted families facing financial hardship, overcrowding, and gambling-related issues impacting student well-being.
- Planned and delivered group programs for children and families, linking them to community resources.
- Advocated for children within schools, prioritizing safety and holistic support.
- Collaborated with families, schools, and services to address needs effectively.
- Maintained accurate records and submitted reports promptly.
Education
Mental Health Support Work
Manukau Institute of Technology
New Zealand01-2007
Level 4 National Certificate - Mental Health Support Work
Manukau Institute of Technology
New Zealand01-2007
Skills
- Demonstrated leadership abilities, including adaptability, decision-making, negotiation, creativity, conflict resolution, and task delegation
- Proficient project management skills
- Strong assessment and intervention capabilities
- In-depth understanding of mental health recovery
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Proficiency in using MS Office, Excel, PowerPoint, and Microsoft Teams application
Accomplishments
- Secured auspice and successfully led the Romero Centre’s service transition from Mercy Community Services to Archdiocese Ministries during March–July 2024.
- Run successful community events such as Welcome Walk and Award Nights
- Received Career Friendly Business Awards from Careers QLD in 2019.
- Finalist in the Open Minds CALD Mental Health Award as a team at RC in 2019.
- Winner of the 2019 Multicultural Queensland Community Awards as a team at RC.
- Finalist for the 2015 Mental Health award as a team at Harmony Place.
- Recognized as a "Local Agent of Peace" by the UQ Rotary Peace Centre in 2018 as a team.
Residence Status
- Australian Citizen
- QLD Full Driver’s License (Manual and Auto)
- First Aid Certificate
- Blue Card
- National Police Certificate
Section name
Reference can be given upon request as I am currently on duty.
Timeline
Manager
Romero Centre
04.2022 - Current
Case Coordinator
Romero Centre
10.2016 - 04.2021
Support Facilitator
Harmony Place Multicultural Mental Health and Wellbeing
10.2013 - 10.2016
Access Community Services Ltd
05.2013 - 10.2013
Social Worker
Anglican Trust for Women and Children
01.2013 - 03.2013
Mental Health Support Work
Manukau Institute of Technology
Level 4 National Certificate - Mental Health Support Work
Manukau Institute of Technology