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Tags: What is Real Wellbeing? AUWI20 Wellbeing Index

Elleni Bereded-Samuel

Elleni Bereded-Samuel, Executive Manager of Diversity and Capability Development at Australian Unity, says the way we connect with people is critical to our wellbeing.

From an Ethiopian background, Elleni believes the relationship between individual wellbeing, family and community is particularly pronounced in her culture: “We can’t separate family from the individual. The individual is controlled and guided by the community. That’s how we grow up.”

Elleni says she was welcomed when she arrived in Australia, but she still felt lonely.

Her own family was growing, but she was missing a sense of community—so she built a community around her.

“We joined the local Baptist Church and felt part of that community. They were lovely people and we still are in touch with them after 25 years.”

Elleni has continued on her quest to build community in her work with Australians including people from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

In 2019, she was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of her outstanding service to the community.

 

Danielle Blaschuk

Danielle’s story: finding Real Wellbeing

For Danielle, discovering the feeling of wellbeing came in a surprising way. Read more

Kevin Young

Kevin’s story: the value of relationships

Find out why Kevin now puts a much higher premium on his personal relationships. Read more

Peter Sirriani

Peter’s story: looking back on a life well-lived

Looking back on his life, Peter Sirianni understands why our sense of wellbeing improves as we age. Read more

Luke Benedictus

Luke’s story: the power of parenthood

“Has becoming a dad made me happier?” For Luke Benedictus that’s a surprisingly tricky question to answer. Read more

Michaela Reiss

Michaela’s story: finding a gentler pace

Find out what Michaela Reiss discovered when she moved to regional Victoria from Melbourne in search of a better work-life balance. Read more

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