Ranielson Santana’s journey from Recife, Brazil to Australia exemplifies resilience and dedication. Arriving in 2018 as an international student with English as his third language, Ranielson faced significant challenges. Leveraging his background in Economics and Accounting, he navigated various industries, demonstrating remarkable versatility and determination.
His personal experiences have ignited a strong passion for supporting CALD communities, driven by a commitment to social justice and empowerment. Currently engaged with MCCSA, Ranielson works to foster inclusive environments for all. His commitment is also evident in his roles as former Chairperson of ABRISA (Vic) and current member of BASA (SA), where he actively supports Brazilian community organizations in Australia. His volunteer work with various organizations underscores his commitment to community service.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Ranielson received the “Treasurer of the Year – Not for Profit Organisation” award from Our Community in 2022. He has also supported international students during COVID-19 raised more than $12k, helped new arrivals with settlement processes, and is a strong advocate for LGBT+ rights and Indigenous reconciliation. His own experiences overcoming barriers fuel his passion for assisting others in integrating into Australian society.