Meet Noble Park Community Head Chef Suraj Parajuli who is unwavering in his commitment to championing cultural diversity. 

He has been recognised in Parliament for his incredible work in fostering the rich Nepalese culture he is so proud of. 

Nepal-born Suraj was invited to Canberra by his local MP Cassandra Fernando (Federal Member for Holt).  There he was congratulated in person by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino for being one of the founders of the Nepalese language school Cranbourne Gyan Jyoti Pathsala situated in Cranbourne West. 

The school was established two years ago and around 66 children attend on Saturday mornings to learn more about their traditional language and culture.  Suraj is the Foundation Secretary and a member of management committee of the school and both his children attend. 

Now Suraj plans on arranging for the school children to visit Uniting AgeWell’s Noble Park Community and perform a cultural dance for the residents.  Suraj describes Noble Park as a “home from home” – his wife Saru Adhikari also works there as a PCW. 

The devout Hindu also relishes the opportunity to don his traditional Nepalese costume and cook traditional dishes for the residents for Nepalese cultural celebrations.  

Noble Park RSM Nancy Carganilla says Suraj is a team player and very willing to help at other sites.   He also volunteers at the Midsumma Festivals. 

Suraj started out at Uniting AgeWell as a FSA, first working at Tanderra and then Strathdon before moving to Noble Park in 2020.   

“Uniting AgeWell has been very good to me,” says Suraj.  “My supervisor Lee Morabito  recognised my talent in the kitchen when I was an FSA and mentored and encouraged me to become a chef.” 

He loves his role.  “I take great pride in cooking wonderful meals for the residents,” he says.  “They give me great feedback, which is always great to hear.”