Community Awards 2025: Person of the Year - Thi Mai Tran
Mai uses her voice and connections with her community to fight for better outcomes for residents in Yarra – and that’s why she’s the 2025 Person of the Year.
Mai is a respected community leader at the Richmond Public Housing Estate, supporting residents after the government’s plan to demolish public housing towers.
She’s worked tirelessly to keep neighbours informed, united, and aware of their rights, especially older Vietnamese residents, by sharing updates in English and Vietnamese.
Being in her 80’s doesn’t hold her back from being a strong advocate for her community. She has helped to reduce fear, strengthen community ties, and encourage resilience during a time of upheaval.
The nominees for Person of the Year
Bhanuka (BB) Bodaragama
Christina Lai
Fiona Ross
Ha Nguyen
Hoa Tran
Kadija Tukow
Katarina Radonic
Khanh Lam
Korlu Zarwue
Mukhtar Mohamed – Saeed
Phil Robertson
Richard DeKleyn
Dr Robert Buttery
San Tran
Thanks to all our nominees for your contributions to life in Yarra.