I am Isaiah Lahai, a public speaker and humanitarian advocate dedicated to promoting multiculturalism, social inclusion, and resilience. Through storytelling and real-life experiences, I inspire change and empower communities to embrace diversity.
Growing up in my native Sierra Leone, I never imagined I could reach a country like Australia. Even though life was not completely perfect, I was, however, comfortable with what my parents had at that time. However, my joy ended one unforgettable day (23 March 1991), when a civil war entered my country of birth, Sierra Leone. For 14 horrible years…
Currently, our charity, “Salt of Hope Foundation” – https://saltofhope.org/ is sponsoring school projects in Sierra Leone.
We have built one primary school and also sponsoring others with learning materials. I believe if we are to achieve a positive change in this world, the change should start with us. Moreover, I also believe public speaking is unique platform for me to reach out to the community. Thus, I hope to do my little best to help change lives in Australia.
As a People of Australia Ambassador, I am honored to promote multiculturalism by sharing my journey and advocating for inclusivity. Our stories as former refugees who turned Australian citizens highlight the strength of diversity and the importance of a cohesive society.
Multiculturalism goes beyond diversity—it recognizes, respects, and values all cultural groups, fostering inclusion and empowerment for all. Watch the video to hear my story and those of others who now call Australia home.
During the ceremony for the Citizen of the Year, the Lord Mayor of Hobart gave the following speech:
“From the time of his arrival in Australia Fayia Isaiah Lahai has been a deeply committed and very active member in the Sierra Leonean, broader African and wider Australian community and contributed significantly to a cohesive Tasmanian society and has provided great support for the UTAS migrant support program.
Australia’s Race Discrimination Commissioner, Dr. Tim Soutphommasane, and Isaiah Lahai visited Hobart at the Migrant Resource Centre.
The 23 June 2012 WALK TOGETHER event in Hobart Tasmania was one of a kind I would love to see happening every season in our state. I was privileged and honoured to be part of such a great venture. I gave a remarkable speech during this event and I am very hopeful 2013 will be very great.
When Mr. Fayia Isaiah Lahai visited Rokeby Primary School, he spoke to our Grade 5 and 6 students about the challenges he has faced and the power of resilience. His story of overcoming adversity through self-belief, hard work, and a positive mindset deeply resonated with the students, encouraging them to set high expectations for themselves. Isaiah’s journey—from hardship to university and fatherhood—served as a powerful example of perseverance and success. His honesty, humor, and willingness to share his experiences inspired empathy and self-reflection among the students. The impact of his presentation was evident in the meaningful discussions that followed, leaving a lasting impression on both students and staff. We highly recommend other schools take the time to listen to Isaiah’s powerful story of courage, hope, and action.
Mr. Fayia Isaiah Lahai, known simply as Isaiah, visited our school on the last day of Term 2, delivering an inspirational talk to our Grade 3-6 students. Coming from an economically disadvantaged area with a 33% unemployment rate, many of our students face significant challenges at home. Isaiah’s story of overcoming extreme adversity and rebuilding his life in Tasmania was both moving and empowering. His ability to rise above hardship, pursue higher education, become a devoted father, and dedicate himself to helping others left a profound impact on our students. They saw in him a living example of resilience and choice—proof that despite their circumstances, they too have the power to shape their future. Isaiah encouraged our students to dream big, reminding them that they could become the next Premiers, Doctors, Nurses, and Teachers of Tasmania. Months later, they still talk about his visit, inspired by his unwavering message of hope. His impact on our community is immeasurable, and we strongly encourage other schools and organizations to hear his story—it is truly life-changing.
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