Founder – Shilpa Sharlene Kumar
Shilpa Sharlene Kumar is the Founder of Australian Integrated Marketing and Merchandise Services (AIMMS), a not-for-profit initiative created to promote inclusion, confidence-building, and community participation for people with disabilities, unpaid carers, and seniors.
Shilpa was born with cerebral palsy and has faced ongoing challenges in accessing equal opportunities, particularly within the modelling and creative industries. Despite completing her Diploma in Modelling, she experienced firsthand the barriers that many individuals with disabilities encounter when trying to pursue their passions and be recognised for their talents.
These lived experiences inspired Shilpa to create AIMMS — a platform where individuals who may feel overlooked or excluded can come together in a supportive and inclusive environment to build confidence, express themselves, and feel connected to their community.
AIMMS is not an employment program, but rather a voluntary initiative that focuses on social inclusion, skill development, and creative engagement. Through AIMMS, Shilpa aims to provide opportunities for individuals to participate in community-based activities at their own pace, without pressure or expectation.
Recognition & Achievements
Shilpa has been widely recognised for her dedication to advocating for people with disabilities and promoting inclusion within the community.
She was honoured as the Young Citizen of the Year 2023 by the Melton City Council — a testament to her passion, leadership, and commitment to creating meaningful change.
Through her advocacy, Shilpa continues to inspire others by demonstrating resilience, determination, and a strong belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to be seen, valued, and included.
Her Vision
Shilpa’s vision for AIMMS is to create a safe and welcoming space where individuals of all abilities can:
- Build confidence and self-expression
- Engage in creative and community-based activities
- Develop social connections
- Feel a sense of belonging and purpose
Her mission is simple:
To ensure that no one feels excluded from opportunities to participate, connect, and grow within their community.
AIMMS is a voluntary, not-for-profit initiative and does not provide employment or paid work opportunities. Participation is focused on inclusion, wellbeing, and personal development.
Shilpa Sharlene Kumar is the founder of the Australian Integrated Marketing and Merchandise Services. She is the winner of the Young Citizen of the Year 2023 by the Melton City Council. She has achieved many recognition and award for being a strong advocate for people with disability. Through AIMMS she is trying to create employment opportunities for people with disability to get into some form of employment through her business and feel connected with the community.
Below are some of the recognition and awards that Shilpa as the founder of AIMMS has received for her outstanding contribution as an advocate for people with disability in the community,