Ms Nirekha De Silva

I am an experienced and driven researcher, clinical practitioner and program specialist with a strong focus on cultural diversity, migration, and the wellbeing of vulnerable communities. With over 20 years of experience in research and project implementation across various countries, I have honed my skills in the fields of addiction, rehabilitation, human rights, and social research. My educational background includes a PhD in Law, a Masters in Human Rights, a BA in Sociology, as well as Diplomas in Psychology and Counselling, along with specialized training in Forced Migration.

My journey in social research and supporting marginalized communities began during my school days in Sri Lanka (SL), where I actively participated in Girl Guides Association and St. John's Ambulance Brigade. After completing high school, I volunteered at the Family Rehabilitation Centre. In 1999, I seized the opportunity to pursue a BA in Sociology in Canada as an International Student and successfully completed my degree with honors and academic recognition, while juggling two part-time jobs.

Upon my return to SL in 2002, I embarked on various social research positions, laying the foundation for my career. From 2007 to 2010, I served as Research and Grants Specialist for Save the Children, working on projects to support vulnerable children. In 2010, I was appointed for a Diplomatic position as a Research Officer for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Cultural Centre. The work interested me to embarked on my PhD journey, focusing on traditional knowledge, traditional cultural practices, healing and wellbeing and legal regulations.

Following the completion of my PhD in Australia, I returned to Sri Lanka and worked as a research consultant for organizations such as UNFPA, UNWomen, and the National Child Protection Authority. During this time, I also had the privilege of working on a SAARC Cultural Research Fellowship focusing on the Unani Healing System. From 2017 to 2022, I held the position of Officiating Director/ Senior Programme Officer in the Colombo Plan, an Inter-Government organization working with 27 Member Countries, further broadening my experience and expertise. I implemented projects in Afghanistan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Nepal, Sri Lanka and organized Conferences and Training for representatives of all 27 Member Countries.

I migrated to Australia in 2022 and joined Odyssey House as an AOD Research Officer and Counsellor. In my role at the Odyssey Multicultural Programme, I provide AOD counseling to culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and offers case support to asylum seeker, refugee and ex-prison clients. This experience has given me firsthand insight into the specific treatment needs and challenges faced by CALD communities. Additionally, my contributions extend beyond direct service provision. As an Adjunct Associate Lecturer of the National Alcohol Drug Research Centre, I am engaged in AOD Treatment research and evaluations.

In my career, I have made significant contributions that have influenced policies and practices in various domains. Notable achievements include the impact of my research on Transitional Justice and Women Combatants, that led to the implementation of a rehabilitation program for ex-women combatants. I have also influenced prison reforms in SL through research and development of an action plan for prisons. In terms of international endeavors, I initiated many projects in South Asia to understand and promote cultural diversity and protect minority rights. I also influenced changing the legal and institutional system in Afghanistan to protect victims of gender-based violence and trafficking.