Building better workplace culture

Amita Krautloher is championing interfaith and intercultural exchange.

Amita Krautloher has played a key role in strengthening inclusion and belonging at Charles Sturt’s Port Macquarie campus. Her work reflects a practical and sustained commitment to reducing inequalities and supporting a more cohesive, culturally inclusive campus and regional community.

Recognising the need for structured support for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) staff, Amita established the Port Macquarie Diverse Faiths and Cultures Group (PMDFCG). The group meets monthly and provides a consistent space for CALD staff to connect, share experiences and participate in culturally safe dialogue. Under her coordination, the group has linked with the University’s Diverse Faiths and Cultures network and worked alongside the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) team to ensure CALD staff perspectives inform inclusion practices.

Amita has facilitated regular cultural gatherings and festival celebrations over the past two years, bringing together 25-30 staff to encourage cross-cultural understanding and a sense of community on campus. Her commitment also extends to broader regional engagement, initiating Hindu-Christian dialogue in Port Macquarie and contributing to discussions with Port Macquarie Hastings Council on its Cultural and Community Inclusion Plan. Additional partnerships with the local library and Regional Development Australia further support awareness building and intercultural exchange. In recognition of this work Amita was awarded a Charles Sturt Excellence Award in 2025.

Amita’s steady, collaborative leadership demonstrates how staff-led initiatives can enrich workplace culture and contribute to inclusive, resilient regional communities.