Mr Dini has built a strong reputation for his ability to build bridges between different communities and encourage participation in community events and sport by young African-Australians in Moonee Valley.

At a ceremony on Wednesday night, he will also find out if he has won the Australian Local Hero Award to be announced in Canberra.

Mr Dini said his ambassadorial role was an exciting prospect.

"Basically I'll find out more about what it involves in Canberra on February 27, but I'll be going around Melbourne to various events and speaking on behalf of the Australian Multicultural Council.

''It's a great honour."

Maribyrnong MP Bill Shorten said Mr Dini had been recognised for the impact he was having on people's lives.

"Despite his young age, Mr Dini is a prominent leader in Australia's Somali community and is playing a crucial role in supporting migrant families and advocating for his community.

"Good work deserves to be championed and I am pleased that Ahmed Dini has been recognised on a national level."

The Ambassador program is a key initiative of the federal government's multicultural policy.

Mr Dini will be asked to provide advice to the government and the Australian Multicultural Council.

His contribution will help strengthen the government's multicultural policies.

The 2012 ambassadors' term starts this week and ends on December 30.