Champion of the people Venietta Slama-Powell nominated for Pride of Australia awards

SPEAKING up for the "voiceless" in Surry Hills has made Venietta Slama-Powell a champion in her community.

Pride Aust - Venietta Slama-Powell

SPEAKING up for the "voiceless" in Surry Hills has made Venietta Slama-Powell a champion in her community.

Like other locals, Ms Slama-Powell was shocked to learn of the government's plans for a tramway through her suburb.

Residents and businesses were angry the proposed South East Light Rail route from Central Station to Randwick Station could compromise their homes, public parks and safety.

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The first they heard about it was in December last year through the media, Ms Slama-Powell, 40, said.

"There was an enormous amount of anxiety with what I consider a 'voiceless' community. We're a multicultural society with some members not fluent in English so, without government consultation, we needed action," she said. Ms Slama-Powell decided to do something about it and formed People Unite Surry Hills (PUSH), which meets twice a week.

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"We've come together to hold the government accountable," Ms Slama-Powell said.

Her work has earned Ms Slama-Powell a nomination for the Pride of Australia Award Community Spirit Medal.

Neighbour David Siebert said he was proud and amazed by her efforts: "She's a powerhouse. She created and runs her own Facebook page for PUSH and writes letters to the community to get them involved and attend meetings."

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Ms Slama-Powell said anyone could do the same thing: "I'm not sure I'm worthy. The reason I do what I do is a desire to inspire people to get involved in the community."

Her work has shone a light on the threat to homes and she has gained the ear of Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian and the attention of Lord Mayor Clover Moore.

Nominations will be accepted until Tuesday, July 16.

TO SEE ALL THE CATEGORIES AND NOMINATIONS, GO TO WWW.PRIDEOFAUSTRALIA.COM.AU