BCE staff light up LUMINOUS 2026

As lanterns lit up the South Bank skyline, Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) staff joined more than 13,000 people in celebrating the rich cultural diversity that helps communities across Queensland thrive at LUMINOUS 2026 (Friday 31 July).

As a proud sponsor of the event BCE staff, family members, and supporters walked alongside multicultural communities from across the state, carrying lanterns that symbolised hope, connection, and shared humanity.

BCE Work and Welcome Coordinator Susie Anderson said the evening was a powerful reminder of the importance of coming together to celebrate diversity and foster inclusion.

"It was wonderful to see so many BCE staff members turn up to walk together at LUMINOUS," she said.

"Events like this remind us that our strength lies in our diversity and in our willingness to welcome one another with open hearts.

"The lantern parade was a beautiful expression of belonging, connection, and hope. It was inspiring to stand alongside communities from so many different cultures and backgrounds, and celebrate what unites us."

The event also highlighted BCE’s long-standing partnership with Multicultural Australia’s Work & Welcome Program, an initiative that creates meaningful employment opportunities for refugees and people seeking asylum as they build new lives in Australia. Through the partnership participants gain valuable workplace experience across BCE’s 146 schools and 8 offices, develop professional skills, and confidence, and establish a sense of belonging within their new communities. 

Susie adds the values celebrated through LUMINOUS closely align with BCE’s mission.

"At BCE we are called to welcome the stranger and to recognise the dignity of every person,” she said.

“Our partnership with Multicultural Australia through the Work & Welcome Program allows us to live those values in a practical and meaningful way.

"The program creates opportunities for people rebuilding their lives after displacement, while also enriching our own workplaces and communities through the gifts, talents, and experiences they bring."

The Work & Welcome Program is funded through the generosity of BCE staff and continues to have a lasting impact on participants and host communities alike. 

Image caption: BCE staff light up LUMINOUS 2026. Image credit: Multicultural Australia (used with permission).