How alum Selba-Gondoza Luka is empowering lives through care and connection

Selba-Gondoza Luka’s journey is one defined by resilience, service and a deep commitment to community.

From arriving in Australia as an international student at Swinburne University of Technology to becoming a mental health clinician and founder of a thriving community organisation, Selba-Gondoza’s story continues to evolve, shaped by ambition, purpose and a drive to lead positive change, through mentoring young people and women.

A journey shaped by challenge and determination

Selba-Gondoza began her Australian education at Swinburne, enrolling in a Certificate IV in Nursing before progressing to a Bachelor of Nursing. The path was far from easy. During her studies, Selba-Gondoza experienced a profound personal loss – a moment that tested her strength at a time when many students are focused simply on academic survival.

Despite these challenges, Selba-Gondoza persevered. After graduating from Swinburne, she continued her studies, achieving high distinctions at Victoria University. Later, she pursued her nursing studies at the University of Melbourne. Her academic success reflected not only intellectual ability but also extraordinary determination and resilience.

Originally trained as a cartographer in her home country, Selba-Gondoza found it difficult to secure work in that field in Australia. Nursing, while physically demanding, offered something more meaningful. “Caring for others gave me fulfilment,” Selba-Gondoza says, “but I also knew I wanted to continue my education.”

Finding purpose in mental health care

After completing postgraduate studies in clinical mental health nursing, Selba-Gondoza worked across a wide range of healthcare settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, psychiatric facilities, and community mental health services. Some of the most impactful experiences came from working in custodial environments such as Melbourne Custodial Centre, Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, and Thomas Embling Hospital.

Shared experiences enabled Selba-Gondoza to connect with patients, particularly women left to raise children alone.

“I understood what it meant to feel isolated,” Selba-Gondoza explains. “That understanding shaped how I approached care, advocacy and community support.”

Building Afri-Aus Care: care beyond the clinic

In 2015, Selba-Gondoza founded Afri-Aus Care a community organisation to support African Australian families facing complex challenges. What began as a response to visible gaps in support has grown into a multifaceted organisation delivering programs across education, justice, health and wellbeing.

Recognising the critical role of parents, Afri-Aus Care established a mother’s group to address trauma, acculturation challenges and family breakdown. Over three years, nearly 280 women were supported through English language education, employment pathways and community connection, contributing to stronger family relationships and improved outcomes for children.

Education remains a cornerstone of the organisation’s work. Afri-Aus Care runs a weekly homework club and partners with the Children’s University Swinburne, supporting young people to engage with learning and celebrate academic achievement. Several participants have graduated from the Children’s University program and begun exploring university pathways, supported by connections with Swinburne staff and leadership.

Co-Founding Black Rhinos Basketball and Soccer: a platform for crime prevention

Selba-Gondoza also co-founded the Black Rhinos Basketball in 2017 as a proactive crime prevention initiative, aimed at supporting young people at risk of disengagement and involvement in the justice system.

The program provides structured sporting opportunities, positive role modelling and meaningful engagement that strengthens family connections and promotes pro-social behaviour. Through consistent mentorship and community involvement, participants are supported to lead purposeful and constructive lives.

Building on the success of the basketball program, Black Rhinos Soccer was founded in 2023. Since its inception, participation has grown steadily, with teams expanding each year and strong community engagement across all age groups.

This has led to increased engagement, improved behavioural outcomes, and stronger pathways into education, employment and community participation for the young people involved.

Importantly, the impact of Black Rhinos extends beyond sport. Several former players have transitioned into employment with Afri-Aus Care as lived experience mentors, working both in the community and within the Parkville Youth Justice Precinct. In these roles, they provide culturally responsive mentoring and practical support to young people who are in contact with the justice system.

Empowering women and nurturing wellbeing

Beyond education and justice, Afri-Aus Care places a strong emphasis on women’s empowerment and wellbeing. The organisation continues to provide English classes for women who previously could not read or write, opening doors to employment, independence and stronger family connections.

More recently, the community has explored natural wellbeing practices, including the use of natural oils and hair products, encouraging self-care, confidence and creativity. These initiatives align with broader conversations around balance, wellbeing and women’s leadership – themes that take on added significance in the lead-up to International Women’s Day.

“At its heart, it’s about helping women uplift themselves. When women are supported, families and communities thrive.”

A lifelong connection to Swinburne

Reflecting on her journey and time at Swinburne, Selba-Gondoza credits supportive teachers and a diverse student community for laying strong foundations and the Swinburne alumni community in helping her remain connected and inspired.

“Swinburne doesn’t end when you finish your degree,” Selba-Gondoza said. “The alumni community keeps you connected and reminds you what’s possible.”