Essendon's Multicultural Development Officer, Salim Mahazi, has been awarded the “Community service Award” from the Australian Federal Police, for his outstanding contribution to local youth.

Salim has been involved with the Unity Cup for the last four years and contributed significantly to the growth of the event.  This year Essendon fielded three teams – two in the men’s division- a Pakistani and Indian team – and one female Indian team.  In previous years, EFC has also been represented by an Indigenous team.

The “Unity Cup” is a nine-a-side Aussie Rules competition that includes teams from local Muslim, Jewish, African, Indian, Pakistani and Indigenous communities.  It is proudly hosted by the AFP, the AFL Multicultural Program and the Essendon, Western Bulldogs, Hawthorn and North Melbourne football clubs. 

The Unity Cup brings together almost 200 young people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, with male and female teams competing in a friendly round robin competition throughout the day.  Essendon is a founding partner and major organiser of the event.

Salim has been rewarded for his service to community and support of the Unity Cup.  He was recognised for his attention to detail, rapport with multicultural groups in the North West and drive to make this a successful event.