As we kick off National Volunteer Week, and celebrate our thousands of volunteers across CFA, one of our volunteers stands out for his contribution to building a more inclusive, diverse, and safe organisation.
Since becoming Captain of the Malmsbury Brigade, Tony Stephens has been a force to be reckoned with in his support and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Tony has transformed the brigade’s membership with 60% of its operational members now under the age of 54, and 36% female.
Tony’s commitment to diversity comes from his strong belief that to appropriately service the community, the brigade must reflect the community.
“By breaking down the barriers, truly engaging with our community, and identifying their needs and requirements, we not only build a healthier and more resilient community, but we also open the doors to a more diverse and inclusive brigade membership.
One of his many achievements has been the development of the brigade’s Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan 2018, the only known plan of its kind in the North West Region. Through this plan, he aims to ensure the brigade and the community embraces differences and offers opportunities to everyone.
As a strong advocate for mental health awareness and well-being, Tony has implemented a number of initiatives at the brigade to provide members with the information and resources they need to keep them healthy on the inside.
“We’ve launched annual Mental Health and Wellbeing session as well as Peer Support sessions, it’s all about being healthy and we often forget that mental health is a major part of our overall health.
Tony has achieved these outstanding results for his brigade and his community by being an inspirational leader, breaking down barriers and gaining people’s trust by treating everyone with respect and fairness.
Today, we congratulate Tony Stephens for being a worth Spirit of CFA Inclusion and Fairness Award Winner.
Tony Stephens
Author: CFA News and Media