Special Recognition
Jacob Thang Appreciation Day
Honouring a community leader, social entrepreneur and former refugee who has dedicated his life to supporting, training, mentoring and employing migrant and refugee communities in Victoria.
Profile
Jacob Thang (Cung Hlei Thang)
Australian community leader, social entrepreneur and former refugee from Myanmar
Jacob Thang, also known as Cung Hlei Thang, is a prominent Australian community leader and social entrepreneur. A former refugee from Myanmar, he has dedicated himself to supporting, training, mentoring and employing migrant and refugee communities across Victoria — particularly members of the persecuted Chin ethnic community.
Through his organisations and initiatives, Jacob has created lasting pathways for newcomers to build skills, find meaningful employment and contribute to their new communities in Australia.
Background and Journey
From Myanmar to Melbourne
Chin Community Roots
Jacob Thang belongs to Myanmar's predominantly Christian Chin community.
Forced to Flee
Due to military persecution, he was forced to flee Myanmar in 2005.
Years in India
He spent several difficult years living in India before being resettled in Melbourne in 2012 through Australia's humanitarian program.
A New Beginning
He arrived with a young family and limited English skills.
Entering the Workforce
Through landscaping and garden training, he successfully entered the Australian workforce and later created employment pathways for others.
Community Leadership
Organisations and Social Enterprises
Through a range of organisations and initiatives, Jacob has built a comprehensive ecosystem of support for migrant and refugee communities in Victoria.
Chin-Myanmar Community Care
Provides settlement assistance, advocacy, language support, training, and employment programs for migrant and refugee communities.
AusChin Group
A social enterprise specialising in commercial landscaping and grounds maintenance while creating employment opportunities for refugees, migrants, and culturally diverse communities.
AusChin Foundation
Provides emergency relief, community assistance, and sustainable development support locally and internationally.
Community Collaborations and Employment Initiatives
Jacob's community collaborations and employment initiatives include projects that provide meaningful work for members of the Chin community, supporting their settlement and integration in Victoria.
Gallery
Jacob Thang Appreciation Day — Photos
Moments from the appreciation day recognising Jacob Thang's contributions to the community.
Awards and Recognition
Notable Achievements
Jacob Thang's contributions have been recognised with numerous awards celebrating his leadership, entrepreneurship and community service.
Brimbank Citizen of the Year
International Chin Community People's Choice Award — Entrepreneur of the Year
Victorian Refugee Award — Leadership Award
Wyndham Multicultural Entrepreneur of the Year
Celebrating Community Leaders
Jacob Thang Appreciation Day recognises the vital contributions of former refugees and community leaders who build brighter futures for migrant and refugee communities across Australia.