Kenyan-Australian Emily Korir Receives OAM for Advocacy in Disability and Multicultural Communities

Source @Emily Korir

This past weekend in Adelaide, the community came together in celebration as Emily Korir, a Kenyan-Australian changemaker, was awarded the prestigious Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). The honour recognises her exceptional service to people living with disabilities and her contributions to multicultural inclusion across South Australia.

Korir, who has long championed empowerment through accessibility, co-founded BET Group, a thriving disability support agency born out of personal struggle. After experiencing significant barriers in finding accessible housing, she and her partner took bold steps to create solutions—not only for themselves but for others navigating similar challenges. Today, BET Group helps clients across the state live with dignity, independence, and community connection.

The award also acknowledges Emily's ongoing commitment to global impact. She is currently working toward establishing the first accessible respite home for children with disabilities in Kenya—a project that speaks to both her heritage and her unwavering belief in equity, regardless of geography.

In a city that continues to pride itself on multicultural harmony, Emily Korir’s story is a shining example of resilience, vision, and community-led change.