IwanSunito is the founder and chairman of Sydney Christian Worship Centre, a
multicultural contemporary church based in Sydney. The church is actively
involved in organizing up to 30 events every month across Sydney ranging from
spiritual forums to business leadership dinners. Iwan is also a local and
international speaker, having spoken at many churches and business leadership
conferences over the years.
During
his early years, Iwan struggled in his education, but this did not stand in his
way of achieving his dream. His success has given him the passion to share the
Gospel message, encouraging people to keep their trust in Jesus because in Him,
there is victory. He is especially passionate about helping others realize their
spiritual calling and living balanced lives so that they can have an impact in
the marketplace.
Background
Iwan
was born in Indonesia, in the city of Surabaya in 1966. He was brought up in
Pangkalan Bun for 12 years, where he got his elementary education. He then
began his high school education, but Iwan knew that he needed more focus in
order to succeed. When he was 18, and with the blessing of his parents, he
migrated to Sydney, where he knew he would be under great pressure not to fail.
It is in Sydney that he completed his high school education and later joined
the University of New South Wales.
Iwan
always struggled in his educational performance even in university. His
performance during his first years in college was not satisfactory, but he did
not lose his motivation. In 1992, he graduated with his Bachelor of
Architecture degree and then completed his Master of Construction Management
degree the following year. Once his education was complete, Iwan chose to work
in Australia rather than move back to Indonesia. He recognized the great
opportunity that Sydney had, especially since he intended to become an
entrepreneur.
Career
Although
he worked for Cox Richardson Architects after college, Iwan’s desire to run his
own business caused him to quit after 6 months. He started his own
architectural firm, Joshua International Architects. His debut project entailed
building 55 housing units in the Bondi Junction area - a project he carried out
with his friend, Paul Sathio.
In
1996, just 4 years after his graduation, Iwan and Paul founded Crown
International Holdings Group. The company has since grown to become one of
Australia’s most active property development companies. Very few people in
Indonesia and the world at large have experienced the kind of success that Iwan
boasts, and he has become an inspiration for many.
Other Activities
Iwan
is actively involved in different humanitarian efforts both in Australia and in
his home country, Indonesia. He was the chairman of the Indonesia Tsunami
Corporate Appeal following the historic Asian Tsunami of 2006. He has also been
involved in raising funds for charity organizations such as the John Fawcett
Eye Foundation in Bali and other orphanages.
Iwan
is married to Liana, who holds a Diploma of Accounting and Bachelor of
Mathematics from Newcastle University. The couple has three children, with whom
they live in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs.
