Australia
Well-known Australian refugees who have made a difference
From the arts to sport, here’s how well-known Australians with refugee background have shaped society through resilience, talent and leadership.
Australia
Asif Sultani runs the Sydney Marathon to support refugees
UNHCR High Profile Supporter Asif Sultani took on the 42km challenge to raise funds and awareness for the 123 million people forced to flee their homes.
When Asif Sultani crossed the finish line of the 2025 Sydney Marathon, it marked more than just the end of a 42-kilometre race. It was a powerful statement of resilience and hope for himself and the millions of people around the world displaced by conflict, disaster and persecution.
From displacement to belonging
Asif’s motivation comes from his own experience as a Hazara refugee from Afghanistan. At seven, he was forced to flee his home. At 16, he embarked on a dangerous journey before finally reaching safety in Australia.
“When we arrived, the first thing I did was touch the ground,” Asif recalls. “I felt safe for the first time in my life.”
That sense of safety was later reinforced by the warm welcome he received in Maitland, New South Wales.
Asif is a martial artist who trains and competes in Heatherbrae close to his home in Maitland, NSW.
“The community in Maitland were really involved in helping refugees, hearing our story and listening to us,” says Asif. “They welcomed us, and we instantly connected with them and felt safe.”
Running for refugees
The marathon wasn’t just a personal challenge for Asif. It was an opportunity to give back and represent the refugee community on a global stage.
Running for Australia for UNHCR, Asif dedicated every step to supporting refugees, raising nearly $11,000 to provide life-saving aid.
“I’m honoured to run for refugees and represent UNHCR,” says Asif. “It’s a privilege to stand for those whose lives have been on hold and whose futures remain uncertain.
“As refugees, we experience trauma, loss and grief. But now that I have that safety and belonging, I would love to give back to the refugee community and to the younger version of myself.”
Asif sees his journey not as a setback, but as a source of strength and resilience. Through his run, he showed Australians what refugees can achieve when given the opportunity.
“As refugees, we may have lost everything we once knew but we have not lost our ability to achieve greatness,” says Asif.
The power of community fundraising
Asif’s story highlights the important role that communities and individuals can play in supporting refugees. He believes that everyday Australians can make a difference through empathy, connection and action.
“As a human being and as a community, it’s so important to hear and connect with refugees,” says Asif. “Over the past decades, I was able to share my story with so many people, and they kindly welcomed me and gave me a sense of belonging and safety.”
He encourages people who want to help refugees to get involved with community fundraising.
“You never know how much someone wants to help until you give them the chance. A lot of people want to help but don’t know how. Fundraising gives them a platform to get involved. Just start by talking to your friends or family. Step out of your comfort zone.”
With UNHCR facing a devastating funding crisis, community-led initiatives like Asif’s are more important than ever.
You can fundraise like Asif and provide displaced people with essential resources and much-needed hope.
