Western Sydney University PhD candidate Jinal Shashin Parmar has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to improving health outcomes for culturally and linguistically diverse communities, receiving the 2026 Western Sydney University Unsung Hero Award.

Presented as part of the annual ZEST Awards, the honour recognises emerging leaders whose work is making a lasting impact across Greater Western Sydney.

Based at the University’s Campbelltown campus, Jinal is completing a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health through the Health Equity across the Lifecourse (HEAL) Research Lab while also teaching as a Sessional Academic in the School of Health Sciences.

“My PhD research addresses health equity for culturally and linguistically diverse communities — focusing on health literacy, medication adherence, and chronic disease management, areas where language and cultural barriers often prevent people from getting the care they need,” Jinal said.

Working alongside multicultural health services across Western Sydney, Nepean Blue Mountains and South Western Sydney, Jinal’s research and community engagement focus on improving access to healthcare.

She has also contributed to oral health promotion programs in local preschools and peer support initiatives that help university students build connection and wellbeing.

Jinal said the award recognised the important work that often happens behind the scenes.

“Winning this award means a great deal to me, as it recognises the kind of work that often happens quietly, behind the scenes — the conversations with community members, the slow process of building trust, and the peer support work that doesn’t always show up in a CV line,” she said.

After completing her Master of Public Health at Western Sydney University, Jinal returned in 2021 to pursue her PhD, drawn by the University’s commitment to research that delivers real benefits for the community.

“The University’s focus on real-world impact, and on serving the Western Sydney region rather than simply studying it, was a big part of what drew me to choose Western again,” she said.

The Unsung Hero Award is supported by Western Sydney University Chancellor Professor Jennifer Westacott AC, who will provide mentoring and financial support to Jinal as she continues her leadership journey.

This year, the award was presented to Jinal by Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Western Sydney and External Engagement, Professor Geoff Lee.