In a world where integration and inclusion remain complex challenges, true change often begins with a single, determined vision. For Protais Muhirwa, that vision was born from firsthand experience witnessing the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities. Protais is a distinguished community development leader, cultural awareness expertProtais Muhirwa and visionary founder of ARMIA (Active Refugee & Migrant Integration in Australia), now known as ARMIA Healing the Incurables. His journey in community development spans over two decades, driven by a steadfast belief that empowerment and opportunity can transform lives.
Protais, a Master of Science graduate from Tashkent University, furthered his expertise in Human Resource Management and International Community Development at the University of Queensland. He previously led the Misericordia International Centre in South Africa, empowering thousands of refugees and migrants to thrive in various professions worldwide.
Inspired by these transformations, he founded ARMIA on January 26, 2015 (Australia Day) in Sunnybank, Queensland, to combat unemployment, underemployment, and social isolation among refugees in Australia. With a team of 70 skilled volunteers and multicultural professionals, ARMIA drives socio-economic participation and personal empowerment.
Protais’s leadership stems from his ability to see both the structural and personal barriers faced by marginalized communities. He is committed to breaking the cycle where capable individuals remain dependent on welfare, often leading to mental health issues, family conflict, and social challenges. Under his guidance, ARMIA empowers individuals to transition from dependency to pride, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to Australian society. Protais’s unwavering dedication to fostering inclusion and empowerment continues to drive positive change, proving that true transformation begins with understanding and the courage to act.
Compassionate and Inclusive Aged Care
Under the leadership of Protais Muhirwa, ARMIA stands as a multiculturally competent aged care provider, delivering holistic support and quality in-home care to eligible members of the community across South-East Queensland. Protais’s vision has shaped ARMIA into a trusted organization that works with individuals and their families from diverse and vulnerable backgrounds, helping them enhance their quality of life through personalized care and support.
ARMIA offers a comprehensive range of aged/in-home care services, designed to meet the unique needs of each individual while providing guidance and assistance throughout their aged care journey. Whether someone is seeking support for themselves or looking for a reliable care provider for a loved one, ARMIA remains committed to making care a priority. Under Protais’s guidance, ARMIA continues to provide compassionate, culturally sensitive care that empowers individuals and strengthens communities. At ARMIA they believe that supporting Seniors is not favour but a must to show the love and gratitude the society owe them for their long hard work building the infrastructures and services we enjoy today.
How Protais and His Team Can Assist
Under the leadership of Protais Muhirwa, ARMIA offers comprehensive In-Home Aged Care Packages (HCP), providing government-subsidized services for older individuals who have been assessed and approved by the ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team). These packages are designed to support senior Australians with complex needs who wish to continue living independently in their own homes for as long as possible. ARMIA’s tailored services are available at various levels (Level 1 to 4) to ensure that each individual’s unique needs are met with care and professionalism.
Eligibility
Home Care Packages are available to individuals over 65 years of age (or over 50 years for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders) who need support with their aged care journey. Eligibility may apply if the individual has:
- Experienced a change in their physical or cognitive abilities
- Been diagnosed with a medical condition or reduced mobility
- Experienced a change in family care arrangements
- Recently had a fall or been admitted to the hospital
Aged Care Services Provided by ARMIA
Protais and his team at ARMIA offer a wide range of aged care services, including:
- Assistance with home maintenance
- Transport support
- Meal preparation
- Personal care
- Home modifications
- Social support and community access
- Nursing and allied health services
- Respite care
- 24/7 care and support
No Hidden Fees
Under Protais’s guidance, ARMIA is committed to providing accessible and affordable care. ARMIA does not charge the following fees:
- Establishment fees
- Basic daily fees
- Consultation fees
- Income-tested care fees for full pensioners
- Interpreter fees (through the TIS service)
Protais and his team at ARMIA are dedicated to delivering compassionate, culturally sensitive care that empowers individuals to maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.
Your Ally in Disability Support and Care
Under the leadership of Protais, ARMIA stands as a multiculturally competent NDIS provider dedicated to serving and empowering the community. Protais and his team are committed to providing inclusive, culturally sensitive care, with staff who speak a wide range of languages, including English, French, Arabic, Swahili, Kirundi, Kinyarwanda, Tamil, Singhalese, Mandarin, Burmese, and many more. They also have government funded TIS (Translating and Interpreting Service), a very reliable telephone translation resource. This diversity enables ARMIA to communicate effectively and build trust with clients from various cultural backgrounds.
Beyond language diversity, Protais has built a team with broad expertise, including psychologists, social workers, support coordinators, and plan managers. The team carefully assesses each individual’s needs and makes thoughtful referrals to ensure the best possible support and care.
ARMIA’s office reflects the rich diversity of the community it serves, reinforcing Protais’s commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all clients. Under his guidance, ARMIA continues to provide personalized support, empowering individuals to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
Support Services by Protais and His Team at ARMIA
Under the leadership of Protais, ARMIA offers a range of dedicated services designed to holistically empower individuals and enhance their quality of life. With a strong focus on personalized care, Protais and his team work to provide tailored support that meets each individual’s unique needs.
Support Coordination
Protais’s team assists individuals in implementing their NDIS plans, helping to build their confidence and skills while connecting them with all needed service providers, to ensure they receive comprehensive support, and live the normal life they deserve.
Plan Management
ARMIA provides expert guidance in managing NDIS funding, ensuring individuals maximize their resources effectively. The team helps manage payments on behalf of clients, giving them greater flexibility and choice in selecting service providers.
Multicultural Team
ARMIA’s diverse and experienced team is a cornerstone of its success. With years of expertise in the disability sector, the team’s commitment to person-centered support sets ARMIA apart as a trusted service provider.
Additional Services Provided by ARMIA:
- Personal Care
- Accommodation & Tenancy Support
- Health & Community Engagement
- Well-being Programs
- Meal Preparation
- Life Skills Development
Employment Support
One of ARMIA’s major objectives in their Vision is to holistically combat unemployment and/or underemployment, contributing to removing fit men and women from endless welfare dependency. “Don’t give a man fish, teach them to fish”. They currently run uniquely designed Work Ready Program to horizontally empower men and women, ensuring every participant that needs a job gets one at the end of training. They also run SQW (Skilling Queenslanders for Work”, funded by the Queensland government where they achieve the highest KPIs starting from recruitment to employment outcomes.
By providing comprehensive care and thoughtful guidance, Protais and his team at ARMIA empower individuals to live with greater independence, confidence, and dignity. Their dedication to inclusivity and personalized care continues to make a lasting impact on the communities they serve. ARMIA always strive to provide the best person-centered services often beyond Participants and Consumers expectations.
