Ilim College principal and community leader Zeynep Sertel has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her service to the Islamic community of Victoria.
Ms Sertel has dedicated more than two decades to education, youth development and community leadership, with a strong focus on supporting young women and the Islamic community.
In recognition of her commitment to young people, Ms Sertel received the Australian Federal Police Inspiring Youth Award in 2012.
Since 2016, she has served as principal of Ilim College’s Secondary Girls Campus in Dallas, where she plays a key role in educating girls both in academics and Islamic faith.
Ms Sertel has held a range of leadership roles at Ilim College acting as both curriculum coordinator and deputy principal since she joined the school 16 years ago.
Beyond the college, Ms Sertel has made significant contributions to the broader education sector with her expertise in English, humanities and Quran studies.
She worked as a language instructor at La Trobe University and as a lecturer at Prince Sultan University, and is currently a board member and director at Garden College.
Ms Sertel has also been deeply involved in Islamic community organisations.
She co-founded Sareera Sisters at the Islamic Community Milli Gorus, Meadow Heights Mosque. She has served as the president for eight years, working for and through the female Muslim youth in Australia.
Ms Sertel assisted people of Muslim faith battling addiction as vice president of Green Crescent Australia.
She has also acted as treasurer of Muslim Mental Health Professionals, and is the former vice president and board member of the Islamic Council of Victoria.
