Protais Muhirwa

By Achiever Media

Protais Muhirwa: Redefining Refugee and Vulnerable People Support Through Innovation and Compassion.

The vision was grand—a future where every individual, regardless of their past struggles, could stand tall with dignity, purpose, and a sense of belonging. It was not just about finding employment but about restoring pride, breaking cycles of dependency, and empowering people to reclaim their place in society.

At the heart of this mission stands Protais Muhirwa, a leader whose wealth lies not in material riches but in his unwavering love for disadvantaged people and his relentless pursuit of change. Like a king devoted to his kingdom, he has built ARMIA (Active Refugee and Migrant Integration in Australia – currently ARMIA Healing the Incurables) into a beacon of hope, a sanctuary where refugees, migrants, people with disability, seniors, and those at risk of long-term unemployment are given the tools to rise, thrive, and contribute.

Under his leadership, ARMIA has become more than just an organization—it is a Multicultural Family Support Hub, where education, training, and career pathways are forged with care, ensuring that those who have long struggled with integration find not just jobs, but purpose, ensuring that people with disability and the elderly live a normal life with their families. His vision is one of transformation, where individuals once burdened by uncertainty step into their strength, no longer defined by their past, but by the limitless future before them.

A Visionary Leader in Community Empowerment and Social Integration

In an increasingly interconnected yet complex and careless world, Protais Muhirwa stands as a distinguished leader in community development, cultural awareness, and refugee and migrant integration. As the Founding Director of ARMIA (Active Refugee & Migrant Integration in Australia), now known as ARMIA Healing the Incurables, he has dedicated over two decades to transforming lives and fostering sustainable inclusion for marginalized communities. His mission is deeply rooted in the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to transition from dependency to dignity, contributing meaningfully to society.

A Strong Foundation in Leadership & Expertise

With a Master of Science degree from Tashkent University, along with advanced qualifications in Human Resource Management and International Issues in Community Development from the University of Queensland (UQ), Protais possesses extensive expertise in change management, team motivation, strategic development, business planning, and policy implementation. His approach combines visionary leadership with practical holistic solutions dealing with real root causes, ensuring that individuals not only receive support but also develop the skills and confidence to sustainably integrate into society successfully. He likes and implements the Chinese proverb, “don’t give a man fish, teach them to fish”.

Before founding ARMIA, Protais led the Misericordia International Centre in South Africa, a transformative organization that empowered thousands of refugees and migrants to integrate into their new environments. Through education and skill development, he helped individuals from diverse backgrounds become successful medical professionals, lawyers, business leaders, academics, and politicians, many of whom now thrive in Australia, Africa, Europe, and America.

The Birth of ARMIA

Inspired by the profound human transformations he witnessed, Protais established ARMIA on January 26, 2015 (Australia Day) in Sunnybank, Queensland. Recognizing the challenges faced by refugees and migrants beyond their initial five-year settlement support, he created an organization that provides holistic solutions to chronic unemployment, underemployment, social isolation, and cultural adaptation barriers. Since 2018 ARMIA supports all disadvantaged Australians, including mainstream and indigenous persons, which is also a practical way to promote multicultural interactions and rapid integration.

Under his leadership, ARMIA has grown into a vital Multicultural Family Support Hub, backed by a dedicated team of 70 highly qualified volunteers and multicultural professionals. By collaborating with business leaders, community supporters, and stakeholder agencies, ARMIA delivers transformative programs that help individuals find stable employment, build meaningful connections, and reduce long-term welfare dependency.

A Vision for Inclusive and Sustainable Integration

Protais is deeply committed to breaking the cycle of underemployment among skilled refugees and migrants, ensuring that capable individuals are not left on the margins of society. He envisions a future where economic participation, entrepreneurship, and empowerment replace dependency, fostering self-sufficiency and personal pride.

Expanding its mission, ARMIA has extended its services beyond refugee and migrant communities to support mainstream disadvantaged Australians and Indigenous communities since 2018. This inclusive approach reflects Protais’s vision of building a cohesive society where diversity is acknowledged, valued, and celebrated. ARMIA also proudly supports people with disability and the elderly to live a normal life with their families.

A Legacy of Leadership and Transformation

Guided by St. Mary MacKillop’s motto, “Never see a need without doing something about it,” Protais continues to inspire change, create opportunities, and uplift communities. His unwavering commitment to social inclusion, education, and workforce participation has solidified ARMIA’s role as a beacon of hope, helping thousands navigate the path to integration, resilience, and success in Australia.

Empowering Communities, Transforming Lives

ARMIA (Active Refugee & Migrant Integration in Australia), now ARMIA Healing the Incurables, is a Multicultural Family Support Hub in Southeast Queensland, dedicated to holistically empowering New Australians—refugees and migrants who have moved beyond the Australian Government’s settlement program. ARMIA’s mission is to bridge the gap between settlement and full socio-economic participation, ensuring that individuals find and retain employment, integrate into the business community, and become valued contributors to Australian society.

A Holistic Approach to Integration & Community Empowerment

ARMIA’s comprehensive model focuses on education, training, counselling, and employment outcomes, addressing the root causes of unemployment, social isolation, and cultural barriers. Since 2018/19, ARMIA has expanded its support to mainstream disadvantaged Australians, Indigenous communities, people with disabilities (NDIS), the elderly (In-Home Care), and social enterprises like L’ Oasis Café Bar and Restaurant, a community café designed to combat chronic unemployment and social isolation.

Operating from ARMIA House at 140 Mains Road, Sunnybank, in collaboration with the Sunnybank OLOL Parish and the Brisbane Catholic Archdiocese, the organization has thrived despite being relatively young, successfully trialling its Community Development Model with minimal external funding. Through the dedication of volunteers, benefactors, and social enterprise initiatives, ARMIA has become a trusted and impactful force in the community.

A Bridge to Opportunity & Inclusion

Post-settlement refugees and migrants often struggle to integrate into the workforce and broader Australian society, facing barriers that limit their ability to secure a prosperous future. There is an Australian saying re access to employment and other opportunities that “it’s not what you know but who you know”; unfortunately refugees don’t know anyone to show them the way. ARMIA serves as an active bridge between New Australians, government agencies, and stakeholders, facilitating meaningful connections, cultural adaptation, and long-term independence.

Symbolized as a welcoming Tree, ARMIA embraces individuals with diverse and complex needs. Over the past ten years, ARMIA House has provided weekly support to 100–150 clients, offering free short-term assistance and creating a safe, inclusive space for empowerment and integration. Guided by the Chinese proverb, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime,” ARMIA’s approach is deeply rooted in fostering self-sufficiency and long-term success.

Programs Designed for Lasting Impact

ARMIA’s fully integrated organizational structure is designed to support refugees, migrants, and others at risk of long-term unemployment. The goal is to address unemployment at its core, reduce barriers, and support continued workforce participation to prevent long-term welfare dependency.

ARMIA operates as a drop-in center with a holistic model that integrates individual, family, and community needs. The organization works closely with employers and CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) employees for up to six months, addressing language and cultural challenges to ensure sustainable employment and mutual satisfaction.

ARMIA’s structured programs focus on five key areas:

1. Community Engagement – Strengthening social connections and cultural integration.

2. Life Skills Training – Providing practical skills, including financial literacy and digital literacy.

3. Health & Wellbeing – Offering culturally appropriate mental health support and wellness programs.

4. Education & Employment – Supporting career development, resume building, business language training, and further education pathways.

5. Entrepreneurship & Business Initiatives – Encouraging small business development and self-sufficiency through professional training and mentorship.

Addressing Critical Gaps in Society

A significant portion of ARMIA’s focus is directed toward individuals who remain socially isolated or unemployed despite completing the five-year government resettlement program. This includes elderly CALD individuals who face difficulties in navigating daily tasks or accessing mainstream aged care services, as well as those struggling with financial insecurity, cultural adaptation, and workplace discrimination.

The consequences of unemployment and underemployment extend beyond financial hardship, often contributing to mental health issues, domestic violence, substance abuse, youth homelessness, and crime. By addressing these challenges through targeted, sustainable interventions, ARMIA actively prevents the long-term marginalization of vulnerable communities.

A Vision for the Future

ARMIA is more than just an organization; it is a movement dedicated to empowering individuals to transition from welfare dependency to economic self-sufficiency. Through its holistic, community-driven approach, ARMIA strives to reshape the future for refugees, migrants, and other vulnerable Australians, ensuring they have the tools, support, and opportunities needed to dream and thrive in their new home.

A Catalyst for Empowerment, Integration, and Community Growth

ARMIA (Active Refugee & Migrant Integration in Australia), now ARMIA Healing the Incurables, is more than a support organization—it is a beacon of hope and transformation for refugees, migrants, and disadvantaged individuals in Southeast Queensland. As a Multicultural Family Support Hub, ARMIA is dedicated to holistically empowering New Australians by providing the resources and guidance necessary to achieve self-reliance, workforce participation, and successful integration into Australian society.

Comprehensive, Holistic Support Model

ARMIA offers a wide array of services tailored to address the social, cultural, economic, and emotional needs of its clients. Its multifaceted approach goes beyond immediate welfare assistance, focusing instead on long-term empowerment and sustainable success. Key services include:

• Counselling & Mental Health Support – Offering culturally sensitive counselling to break stigmas and promote emotional well-being.

• Education & Vocational Training – Providing pathways for skill development, including English language proficiency, computer literacy, and career readiness programs.

• Employment & Entrepreneurship Support – Bridging the gap between job seekers and employers while fostering business development for self-sufficiency.

• Community Engagement & Social Inclusion – Strengthening connections among CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) communities, government agencies, and service providers.

• Housing Assistance & Support for Vulnerable Groups – Helping single mothers, widows, elderly migrants, and people with disabilities (NDIS) find stable housing and essential services.

• Social Enterprise Development – Encouraging entrepreneurship as a means of financial independence and community growth.

Advocating for Inclusion and Excellence

Protais is deeply committed to advocating for individuals with disabilities and the elderly, ensuring they have access to essential services and opportunities for a better quality of life. His dedication is reflected in ARMIA’s status as a registered charity and not-for-profit organization, holding key certifications that reinforce its commitment to accountability, transparency, and excellence in service delivery.

Leadership, Strategy, and Professional Expertise

ARMIA’s impact is driven by a dedicated Management Committee, which meets monthly to assess and refine strategic initiatives. Additionally, an Advisory Committee provides long-term vision and oversight, ensuring that ARMIA remains responsive to community needs.

ARMIA’s multidisciplinary and multicultural team includes psychologists, counsellors, social workers, educators, and business professionals, as well as a robust network of volunteers. This expertise allows the organization to deliver comprehensive and culturally attuned support services that deeply resonate with those it serves.

Driving Inclusion, Empowerment, and Lasting Change

Through his visionary leadership and deep compassion, Protais continues to empower individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and marginalized communities, ensuring they have the support, opportunities, and dignity they deserve. His work at ARMIA is not just about providing services—it’s about building lasting resilience, fostering inclusion, and creating a future where everyone can thrive.

Shaping the Future of Community Integration & Empowerment

ARMIA is more than an organization—it is a movement dedicated to empowering individuals, fostering resilience, and creating lasting change. Its unique blend of professional expertise, cultural sensitivity, and holistic services positions it as a leader in refugee and migrant support. Through deep community connections, strategic collaborations, and innovative programs, ARMIA continues to break barriers and build a future where every individual, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive.

A Tree of Strength, Inclusivity, and Empowerment

At its core, ARMIA Healing the Incurables operates as a symbolic Tree—deeply rooted in strength, inclusivity, and adaptability. Welcoming individuals with diverse and complex needs, the organization envisions itself as a 24/7 support system, ensuring that no one is left behind. As future funding allows, ARMIA is committed to expanding its capacity, reinforcing its mission to provide flexible, holistic, and person-centered assistance to those navigating the challenges of post-settlement integration.

A Dedicated & Skilled Workforce

Despite the lack of committed funding, ARMIA’s success is driven by a team of highly skilled professionals who work as volunteers, part-time, full-time, casual, and sub-contracting employees. Recognizing that staff well-being is key to sustaining high-quality service delivery, the organization has plans to implement comprehensive training and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) as financial resources grow. By fostering a supportive and development-focused work environment, ARMIA ensures the long-term stability of its workforce—a critical factor in delivering consistent and effective services to clients with complex and multifaceted needs.

A Model for Sustainable Growth & Lasting Impact

ARMIA’s vision extends beyond immediate assistance—it is building a resilient, long-term integration model that not only addresses present challenges but also equips individuals with the tools for independence, dignity, and self-sufficiency. Through a holistic approach, strategic partnerships, and social enterprise initiatives, ARMIA is redefining post-settlement services, ensuring that refugees and migrants are not just supported but empowered to rebuild their lives with purpose and hope.

Poised for Transformational Change

With a strong foundation in community connections, cultural awareness, and innovative service delivery, ARMIA is on a clear trajectory toward sustainable growth and national impact. As funding opportunities expand, the organization is poised to become a transformative force, bridging gaps in refugee and migrant support, assisting least advantaged persons, across the region and beyond.