A local volunteer who has made a profound impact on the lives of domestic violence victims and their children has been named Parramatta’s 2025 Citizen of the Year.
Through her work with Temple of Humanity Inc, Bhumika Mayur Mhatre empowers domestic violence survivors to rebuild their lives by providing workshops on financial literacy, self-advocacy and job readiness to support resilience and healing while creating a more inclusive and compassionate community in Parramatta.
Mhatre said that being named Citizen of the Year was an incredible honour and recognition of the values she holds dear – compassion, inclusiveness and service.
“To me, this is about shining a light on the importance of bringing people together, regardless of their backgrounds, faiths or beliefs and to inspire others to contribute in their own way toward building a stronger, more connected community,” Mhatre said.
“This award is a recognition of my efforts in fostering unity, cultural harmony and community support through the Temple of Humanity Inc., which isn’t just a personal achievement but a shared victory for everyone who has supported this journey. It inspires me to keep striving for greater impact and reminds us all that acts of kindness, big or small, truly shape our community.”
Bhumika was honoured during a heartfelt Australia Day eve ceremony at PARKROYAL Parramatta, alongside fellow volunteer Fulin Yan, who was awarded Young Citizen of the Year for his dedication to mental health advocacy and youth empowerment and driving initiatives that address community mental health needs that foster support and resilience.
Yan said this recognition was deeply humbling and acknowledged the community that has shaped and supported him.
“As someone from a culturally and linguistically diverse background who has grown up in Rydalmere and proudly called Parramatta home, this award celebrates the power of civic engagement and giving back to a community that has given me so much,” Yan said.
“I hope it inspires others to know that every contribution, no matter how small, can ripple out and make a difference.”
Philip Marsh, dedicated Meals on Wheels Driver and Recreation Support Volunteer supporting people with disabilities was named the Senior Citizen of the Year, while The Parramatta Mission Volunteer Team took out the Community Group Award.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Martin Zaiter said it was an honour to present the 2025 recipients with their awards and congratulated them on their extraordinary contributions to the community.
“These awards celebrate the heart and soul of Parramatta — our amazing community members who go above and beyond to make our City stronger, kinder and more inclusive,” Zaiter said.
“Bhumika, Fulin, Phil and The Parramatta Mission Volunteer Team are shining examples of the kindness, leadership, and dedication that define Parramatta.
“Congratulations to all the winners. Thank you for inspiring us all and strengthening our community. You make us proud.”
This post was produced by our newsroom.