A victim-survivor of family violence and child sexual abuse, and a bloody funny comic, Malika Rees has been named Wollongong’s Citizen of the Year for 2025. Photo: Zoe Cartwright.
Comedic talent, outspoken advocate and prolific creative Malika Elizabeth Rees has been named Wollongong’s Citizen of the Year.
On Thursday (6 February) Malika was recognised at the City of Wollongong Awards for her years of stepping up and speaking out.
She has drawn on her passion for music, storytelling and education to support victim-survivors of domestic violence speak out against child predators and spark hard conversations.
Usually at home on stage as a musician or comedian, Malika said when her name was called on Thursday night she was “gobsmacked”.
“I had no idea or I would have prepared a speech,” she said.
“In the end I sang my acceptance speech. I’m still processing it.
“It was so affirming and wonderful, and I’ll take this platform wherever it will lead me.”
Malika moved to Wollongong to attend university in 1990 and fell in love with the warm sense of community.
She threw herself wholeheartedly into everything the region had to offer.
She played a key role in the inaugural Australian Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Recovery and Healing Conference in Wollongong and has worked extensively with the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre and Women Illawarra.
Compassion and education are at the heart of her other creative pursuits including her ensemble show ‘Church of the Clitori’ that featured on the Adelaide and Sydney Fringe Festival stages, and her work in progress ‘A Gentle Talk About Death for Little Ones’ through the MerrigongX Artists program.
Malika is also a funeral celebrant and leader of the Tender Funerals Community Choir that has performed at events such as Voices for Gaza and National Reconciliation Week.
She has shared her experiences of child sexual abuse, family violence and throwing herself in front of a car to save her child – all to support other women.
“When I was younger I was really numb and disconnected from what happened to me,” she said.
“I didn’t have a voice to speak for myself, but others spoke out for me when I couldn’t.
“To be able to use my voice now for others is wonderful, and if I can help others find their voice it’s a huge honour.”
Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said Malika’s many passionate endeavours warranted the city’s highest recognition.
“Malika’s desire to utilise her many creative talents in the service of social advocacy and community service makes her a special individual, and worthy recipient of this honour,” Cr Brown said.
“Her tireless efforts in supporting and empowering victim-survivors of violence is to be truly admired, as is her passion for her many artistic endeavours and contribution to the Wollongong arts community.”
In other awards, Jack Brown was named Young Citizen of the Year for his work with mental health and suicide prevention charity Talk2mebro.
Need a Feed was named Community Group of the Year.
Clifton School of Arts received the Arts and Cultural Achievement Award.
Kirsty Thomas was awarded the Diversity and Inclusion Award.
Karlie Zec was recognised with the Environmental Achievement Award.
Robofit received the Innovation Achievement Award.
Jurni Young was given the Rising Star Award.
Rod Broad received the Sports Achievement Award.
Hysata was recognised for bringing Wollongong to the World.
Sarah Rowan received the Lord Mayor Award.
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