ROSANNA BARBERO

Kylie Kwong celebrates the individuals helping to grow a stronger community. This month, we meet Rosanna Barbero, chief executive of Sydney’s Addison Road Community Organisation.

- GEORGIE MEREDITH (MAIN) & KYLIE KWONG (INTRO)

For me, the best part of this recent Sydney lockdown has been connecting with trailblazer and local community hero, Rosanna Barbero.

I have been volunteering with the inspirational Addison Road Community Organisation during this time and have been so moved by the tireless efforts and compassionate work that the team offers, day-in-day-out. It is an absolute privilege to be a part of this grassroots community that makes such an effort to truly understand the specific needs of each of this city’s multicultural communities. - KYLIE KWONG

Rosanna Barbero describes herself as a realistic optimist. The chief executive of Sydney’s Addison Road Community Organisation has been working in community development for nearly 30 years, and believes each of us has a vital part to play in building a just world to live in.

“I’m 56 and I still believe in change and the power of humanity. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t do what I do,” she says. “I witness that power on a daily basis. There are always wins and gains that give you energy.”

Barbero, who grew up in south-western Sydney, became engaged with the world of activism through an early passion for animal rights. Her first act of devotion, when she was just seven years old, was to become a vegetarian.