As Australia heads to the polls on 3 May, conversations around diversity, equity, and inclusion feel more urgent than ever. In a world where progress often hangs in the balance, community leaders who uplift marginalised voices play a critical role.

At G’day India, we sat down with one such changemaker—Tasneem Chopra OAM.

A passionate advocate for cultural and gender equity, Tasneem was appointed the inaugural Ambassador for Women of Colour Australia and named an Anti-Racism Champion by the Australian Human Rights Commission in 2018. Her outstanding contributions to cultural inclusion were recognised with an Order of Australia Medal.
Born in Kenya, Tasneem is a fifth-generation East African of Indian descent who grew up in Bendigo, Victoria—a childhood she describes as being the "brown pea in a white pod." Her lived experience laid the foundation for a life’s work dismantling systemic inequities.

Through her consultancy, The Culture Lens, she helps organisations embed intersectional approaches to leadership, communication, and workplace culture—championing inclusion as a catalyst for innovation and success.

Over the past two decades, Tasneem has led initiatives for government and non-profit organisations, crafted inclusive policies, and served on influential boards including the Victorian Public Service Commission, Fire Rescue Victoria, ACMI, and Ambulance Victoria. Her advisory work spans states, from co-chairing the NSW Legal Aid External Anti-Racism and Inclusion Committee to serving on the Collingwood Football Club’s Expert Panel on Anti-Racism.

A Distinguished Alumna of La Trobe University, Tasneem holds degrees in psychology, sociology, and a master’s in international development. She is a TEDx Melbourne presenter, published author, and sought-after media voice across platforms such as ABC, BBC, The Project, Q&A, The Drum, and Compass.
She currently co-hosts the podcast Colour Outside the Lines with actor Leah Vandenberg, where issues of identity, equity, and representation take centre stage.

As Australia prepares to cast its vote, Tasneem offers a powerful reminder: leadership must move beyond performative inclusion to drive real, lasting change.

"We need leadership anchored in compassion, not convenience."
Q: As we approach the election, what are your hopes for Australia's leadership?
A: That our leadership rediscovers its moral compass—anchored in international law and human dignity. We must move away from the politics of division, where fear is weaponised, and minorities are demonised.
We need leaders who take climate change seriously, act with integrity, and repeal harmful policies targeting refugees and asylum seekers. It is time for compassion—not convenience—to shape our national conscience.

"Diversity is our greatest strength."
Q: Assimilation remains a challenge for new migrants. How do we shift this narrative?
A: First, we must change our mindset—cultural diversity is not a liability; it is a strength. We must stop asking people to leave parts of themselves at the door and instead invite their full identities to the table.
Australia’s multicultural identity should be a point of pride, not apology.

"We owe the next generation more."
Q: What is your hope for future generations in an evolving global landscape?
A: "That we think beyond short-term gain and focus on long-term consequences. Whether in climate, equity, or governance, the decisions we make now will shape the world our children inherit.
My hope is for a future led by empathy, responsibility, and foresight."

"Representation must be real, not symbolic."
Q: What changes are most needed, and who will drive them?
A: We need leadership that genuinely reflects the communities it serves—across government, business, and civil society.
It is not enough to tick diversity boxes. We must hold leaders accountable not just for their intentions, but for their impact.
"This is only the beginning."
Q: What is next for you?
A: I am continuing to expand The Culture Lens and my work as a keynote speaker, MC, and event moderator—both nationally and internationally.
I am also thrilled about the launch of Colour Outside the Lines, my new podcast with Leah Vandenberg. Together, we are unpacking identity, resilience, and exclusion from a minority perspective—with heart and humour.

In a political climate where inclusion is too often reduced to buzzwords, Tasneem Chopra is a force for genuine, systemic change.
Her work challenges us to listen more deeply, lead more inclusively, and act more boldly.
As Australians prepare to vote, voices like Tasneem’s are not just welcome—they are essential. Because it is not only about who we elect, but about the kind of nation we choose to become.

By Nandita Chakraborty