Narre
A NARRE Warren policewoman is encouraging people of all religious and cultural backgrounds to follow their dreams, after realising her own more than two years ago.
Constable Maha Sukkar came to Australia from Lebanon more than five years ago and in 2004 she became the first policewoman in Australia to wear a traditional Muslim hijab as part of her official police uniform.
Since graduating, Constable Sukkar has dedicated much of her work and personal time to promoting understanding between Australians and the Muslim community, while encouraging young people of all backgrounds to pursue their goals and ambitions.
Earlier this year Constable Sukkar was presented with a Department of Families, Community and Indigenous Affairs (FACSIA) Award in recognition of her positive contribution to Australian Muslims regarding social integration.
She was one of 20 individuals selected from 200 nominees to receive the award.
Aside from her operational police work, Constable Sukkar regularly gives motivational speeches to students at local and Muslim schools and has also addressed other community organisations, such as the Rotary Club of Narre Warren, about the need for more cultural and religious understanding in the community.
“I always thought it would be easier to help others if I was working inside an organisation such as Victoria Police and if I had a formal position. That is one of the reasons why I became a policewoman and now I love it. It’s the best thing I ever did,” she said.
In addition to her traditional headdress, Constable Sukkar always has her arms covered with long sleeves and wears trousers to coincide with her religious beliefs. She said her uniform often sparked attention and questions from members of the public.
“When I walk through the shopping centre or down the street in my uniform I am easily recognisable. People come up and talk to me about where I work and what I am wearing.
“Some people ask if I am bald or cold, I joke back and say I am really sun smart,” she said.
“People from the Muslim community also come up to me a lot and I talk to them about my role in Victoria Police and act as a bit of a mentor for them.
“I also explain to people that just because I dress differently I still do the same work as everyone else,” she said.
Constable Sukkar said she was delighted with the award and was keen to continue her work in the community.
Casey District Inspector Bob Hill congratulated Constable Sukkar and said it was only fitting that Victoria Police should have members from different cultural and religious backgrounds working in its organisation.
“I believe Constable Sukkar is a leading example of this and I commend her for all of the great work she does both in the City of Casey and among the Muslim community to encourage an understanding of our diversity and encourage people from all backgrounds to achieve their goals.”
