continued on

Recommendations to minimise COVID-19 transmissions in mosques

Dr Habib Bhurawala Dr Asif Raza.

The Australian Islamic Medical Association in collaboration Quakers Hills Masjid brought together health professionals and imams on Friday 8 October 2021 to discuss COVID-19 infection and transmission risk in mosques and Islamic centres and measures to reduce the risks as the mosques are allowed to re-open in NSW.

The online event moderated by Shaykh Youssef Hassan was attended by AIMA members Dr Fariha Dib, general practitioner, Dr Asif Raza, intensive care specialist, Dr Imran Haque, respiratory specialist, Dr Mohamed Assoum, infectious disease epidemiologist and public health researcher and Dr Habib Bhurawala, Paediatrician.

Dr Wajdi Hadi and Dr Naim Islam, members of AIMA, also attended this session.

Grand Mufti of Australia Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamed, Shaykh Ahmed Abdo from Australian National Imam’s council (ANIC), Shaykh Abu Hurairah, Imam of St Marys mosque, Shaykh Dr Shabbir Ahmed, Imam of Masjid Qubaa and other scholars, masjid committee members and a large number of community members including representa-

Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamed. Shaykh Ahmed Abdo. Dr Fariha Dib. Dr Habib Bhurawala.

tives and office bearers of various community organisations spoke at the event.

The programme commenced with the welcome from Shaykh Youssef Hassan provideing an overview of the current situation regarding mosque re-opening and the need for such a session. Then he invited Dr Ibrahim Abu-Mohamed, Grand Mufti, who spoke about the importance of consultation with health experts to minimise risk to the worshippers when masjids re-open and quoted from Islamic history about the contribution of Muslim surgeons and physicians in the field of Medicine.

Shaykh Ahmed Abdo summarised and reiterated Grand Mufti’s message.

Dr Asif Raza, Sydney based intensive care specialist, NSW co-ordinator and central executive committee member of AIMA, welcomed everyone and provided a brief update on the event’s purpose, especially the imminent re-opening strategy for NSW and needs to have appropriate plans and processes in place for mosques and Islamic centres in NSW.

Dr Asif Raza further explained that the objective and purpose of AIMA is to unite and inspire Muslim health professionals in Australia. In addition, he stated that AIMA members wish to serve and contribute towards the welfare of Muslims and the broader Australian community.

Dr Mohamed Assoum and Dr Imran Haque gave a short presentation followed by an interactive Q&A session where Dr Fariha Dib, Dr Asif Raza, Dr Habib Bhurawala and Dr Wajdi Hadi contributed.

They pointed out the precautions that would be recommended using available published research, protocols and information from national and international sources in both mosque and church settings.

They have also discussed at-risk populations and other preventive measures that can be taken to minimise harm. This session generated significant interest from the participants.

The seminar program concluded with a vote of thanks by Shaykh Youssef Hassan.

Recording of this session and details of other activities conducted by the Australian Islamic Medical association is available on the website: www.aimamed.com.au

Read the recommendations on page 32.

Dr Habib Bhurawala (MBBS MD FRACP DCH) is a consultant general paediatrician currently working at Nepean & Blue Mountains hospitals in Sydney. He has a strong interest in community work, especially health education/promotion.

Zia Ahmad recognised with Lifetime Achievement Award “

Warmest congratulations.

Wonderful your work has been recognised. “- Lee Rhiannon, Former Greens Senator for NSW “

Dear Zia, Congratulations on receipt of this Lifetime Multicultural communications award in recognition of a lifetime of outstanding work for your community . You work has brought many communities closer together. Well done to you and the AMUST Team, most deserving.

“- Peter O’Meara, CEO, Catholic Cemeteries & Crematoria

Congratulations on your well-deserved Life Time

Achievement Award.

May Allah (swt) give you more strength, with long and healthy life to continue to serve the community. “- Dr Nakadar, USA “

Hi Zia, I wish you a very warm congratulations on your lifetime achievement award. Your ongoing contribution to our multicultural community is significant and much appreciated. Regards, David.

Continued from page 1 Zia Ahmad’s Dedicated Service

Over the past five decades, Zia has established multiple community organisations and initiatives that has served the multicultural and interfaith community. It is a testament to his legacy as he continues to provide a servant leadership style to the multiple management and influential positions he has held and currently holds.

The 68 year old’s vision of strengthening and excelling the Australian Muslim Community, Zia has continuously provided opportunity and inspiration to those who meet him.

With his open minded approach, Zia has developed a trusted and beloved reputation with an extensively wide network including community leaders, religious leaders, advocacy organisations, businesses, mainstream and multicultural media, government officials and police.

His passion for actively getting involved, showcasing his life experience and making sure his voice is heard has led to making effective change and has played a significant impact to the pivotal and successful growth of Muslims in Australia.

“We are a dawah family. I have committed my life and involved my loving family into inviting all to see how grateful I am of the opportunity Australia has provided us with. We have benefitted with freedom of religion, freedom of establishing Muslim communities and freedom to ensure our voices are heard,” Zia said.

He has personally won a number of awards including the Premier’s Multicultural Communications Award 2019 (PMCA 2019) in the category of Best Print Report of the year, Interfaith Dialogue Award 2018, Excellence Award 2018, Multicultural Communities Council of NSW, Premier’s Multicultural Media Awards 2016, in the category of Best Editorial/Commentary of the Year; AMU Alumni of Australia Award 2016 and University of Sydney LS Medal in 1998. He is an Ambassador of Peace appointed by the Universal Peace Federation. He was the SBS Lifetime Community Service Medal Finalist at the 2020 Premier’s Multicultural Community Medals. munications Awards (PMCAs) recognise excellence in the multicultural media and marketing industry.

The PMCAs recognise the valuable contribution multicultural media and marketing make to Australian society in NSW by connecting people to their culture, identity, and language.

These awards celebrate and recognise the important role journalists, editors and publishers in text, radio, television and digital media play. They also honour innovative and creative marketing campaigns that inspire social cohesion and community harmony.

Stories of survival in the face of persecution and investigative reports about scams targeting diverse communities are among the winners of the 2021 Premier’s Multicultural Communications Awards.

“These awards recognise the vital role our multicultural communicators play in delivering critical information and connecting with our diverse communities,” Mrs Ward said.

“Our multicultural media professionals have been tireless in sharing crucial health messages throughout the pandemic and have been instrumental in helping keep our community safe.”

“I commend this year’s winners and finalists and would like to thank them for their ongoing support in communicating with diverse audiences across NSW.”

Mrs Ward said the winning media and marketing entries were recognised across categories including Best Audio-Visual Report, the Public Interest Award and Business Campaign of the Year.

“Unfortunately due to COVID-19 restrictions, an in-person event to announce this year’s winners can’t take place, but that of course doesn’t take away from the importance of their work in our community,” Mrs Ward said.

“We look forward to celebrating the outstanding achievements of our winners at the Premier’s Harmony Dinner next year.

“I sincerely congratulate our outstanding winners and finalists for bringing an important voice to topics such as racism, migrant exploitation and the impact of COVID on our diverse communities.”

“I am delighted that the NSW Government is the only state in Australia to recognise multicultural communicators with a stand-alone awards program.”

Heartiest congratulations

Zia Bhai. You rightly deserved this. - Prof Javed Jamil, India“ “

Dear Zia Bhai, Mobinah and the wonderful team at AMUST, I hope you’re doing really well. I am writing to you with my warmest congratulations on receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Premiers Multicultural Communications Awards, in recognition of your invaluable service to the community. Thanks for all the work you do for the community. “- Dr Mehreen Faruqi, Greens Senator for NSW

Alhamdullilah Brother Zia as I feel so privileged to have known and worked with you. Your thoroughness and devotion, and the radiating smile over lips and face, eyes and the forehead have ben an inspiration for many across cultural and religious divides. May Allah accept your good deeds and enable to do even more in the service of the community. Good on.

AMUST Media

As NSW government announced lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, South Asian Muslim Association of Australia Inc (SAMAA) held the last session of the popular lockdown Zoom series for seniors on Sunday 10 Oct 2021.

The programs commenced with the recitation of Hamd or Naat by local Naat Khwans including Shagufta Zia, Kashifa Khan, Faiza Khan, Zimam Thanvi and Abdur Rahman.

Maulana Nazeer ul Hassan Thanvi recited from Quran, gave a religious sermon and answered questions from the audience on important religious matters and made supplications to conclude the programs.

Apart from many other services, SAMAA organises regular get togethers including picnics, cruises, information sessions and social entertainment to alleviate social isolation of seniors.

As COVID-19 pandemic spread like wild fire in March 2020, seniors faced fear and isolation. They were unable to meet their children as family gatherings were disallowed. Other social interactions, including SAMAA events, could not be held and most of the seniors had to confine themselves to their homes in isolation.

SAMAA therefore decided to hold regular zoom events which continued for one and half year with a short break early in the year when cases reduced to minimal in Australia and lockdown was lifted. However as delta variant surged, SAMAA resumed the online sessions.

A total of 20 zoom events were held which were well attended and recordings of the programs were circulated among hundreds of seniors, volunteers and community groups.

The programs included important information sessions by the community doctors, health professionals and aged care providers who spoke about COVID-19 disease, the

ways to stay fit to minimise the risks and important health guidelines for seniors during the pandemic. Over the past few months important sessions were held about vaccination and related concerns were addressed. Other health matters of seniors were also included. Psychiatrists and psychologists gave presentations on how to overcome related stress to uplift the spirits and ways to stay relaxed.

Salman Gilani

Half Page Ad_OL.pdf 1 25/10/2021 12:55 PM

Niyazi Brothers Qawwal.

Fasting by seniors during the month of Ramadan is a challenge and therefore related medical aspects were also addressed.

The eminent speakers at SAMAA Zoom series included Dr Faizia Ahmad, Dr Soofia Khan, Dr Aejaz Sheriff of Melbourne, Dr Jalal Khan, Dr Nisa Sheriff, SAMAA senior Dr Noorjahan, a retired Psychiatrist, Anju Mathur, the dementia consultant, Dr Asif Saber, the geriatetician, Dr Raiz Ismail, the

Sheikh Yaqub Dahelvi.

psychiatrist, Ms Shehzi Yusuf, Sydney Psychologist, Sr Galila Abdel Salam, Director IWAA.

Seniors actively participated during question and answer sessions, seeking clarifications on many health issues.

All zoom events included entertainment sessions. In 2020, local poets and singers entertained the seniors while in 2021, overseas guests were invited including famous Urdu poets Dr Nadim Shad, Popular Merruthi, AM Turaz of India and Dr Mohammad Izhar ul Haq and Syed Salman Gilani of Pakistan.

A renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Yaqub Dahelvi gave spiritual sermons during the month of Ramadan. Famous qawwali group Niyazi Brothers of Rampur gave a special performance to mark Eid ul Fitr in May 2021.

SAMAA seniors also presented items including poetry, their own stories and jokes. A number of political leaders also attended special events including Federal Minister for Seniors and Aged Care Richard Colbeck, Geoff Lee MP and Julia Finn MP.

Mr Zahid Jamil, on behalf of SAMAA, welcomed the seniors and other attendees during all sessions. He spoke about various SAMAA services and initiatives and urged the community seniors and their families to contact SAMAA coordinator Mrs Kaukab Saulat for all their needs.

You can watch the recording of zoom events here https://mega.nz/folder/IopkBIrZ#epmk0stw6RIVgsAa-NIkqA

SAMAA, a Public Benevolent Institution, has been providing various services to the South Asian Muslim seniors of metropolitan Sydney and regional NSW for past twelve years.

SAMAA’s Services include developing innovative and effective Service Modules to facilitate the provision of culturally specific needs of South Asian Muslim seniors. For more details, please visit SAMAA website: www.samaa.org.au

Dr Faroque Amin

Islamic Practice and Dawah Circle (IPDC) held its Annual General Meeting on Saturday 2 October 2021 with the opening session joined by a large number of politicians, community leaders and well-wishers from all over Australia, numbering to over 530 participants, a record for a Zoom online meeting.

IPDC is an Australia wide Islamic community organisation that has been serving the community for more than two decades. This year’s AGM of this organisation demonstrated its growth and social contribution and indicated its most significant role in the Australian society.

The online meeting was commenced at 10 am AEST with the Qur’an recitation, by Shaikh Akram Buksh, Imam of Slacks Creek Masjid Brisbane, with several verses from the Surah Qaf that describe the creation of this world and the human journey towards a life in the hereafter.

The Grand Mufti of Australia, Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamed, honoured the opening session.

During his inauguration speech, the Central President of IPDC, Dr Rafiqul Islam, said that although the current pandemic is a global crisis, this might also be a reminder to renew humanity’s struggle for sustainable living through better environmental and climate-related changes worldwide.

“This crisis also presents an opportunity to understand the value of family and community and religious and spiritual resources can make an outstanding contribution in overcoming the current crisis,” he said.

The President of the IPDC thanked all participants for joining the inaugural session of the IPDC AGM.

A short video presentation about the establishment of IPDC as a community organisation, its historical development and current projects and activities in various cities around Australia was showcased for the audience during the inaugural session.

Several Australian political, religious and community leaders addressed the AGM attendees during this opening session.

The federal and state political leaders who addressed the AGM participants included The Hon Tony Burke MP, Manager of Opposition Business in the House (Australia), Mr Andrew Giles MP, Member for Scullin, Victoria and Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs in Victoria, Senator Janet Rice, Senator for Victoria, Mr Christopher John Minns MP, Leader of the Opposition in NSW, Mr David Shoebridge, MLC, Member of the Legislative Council in NSW, Ms Natalie Suleyman MP, State Member for St Albans in Victoria, Ms Sarah Connolly MP, Labor Member for Tarneit in Victoria and Ms Lee Rhiannon, former Senator of Australia.

Hon Andrew Giles MP represented Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Leader of the Opposition (Australia) and the leader of the Australian Labor Party, and Ms Natalie Suleyman MP represented Hon Ros Spence MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Community Sport and Youth in Victoria.

Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Hon Daniel Andrews MP, Premier of Victoria, Mr Jihad Dib MP, Member for Lakemba in NSW, and Adj Clin Prof Brett Sutton, Chief Health Officer of Victoria also sent their written messages.

The notable religious and community leaders who addressed the AGM included Shaikh Shady Alsuleiman, President of the Australian National Imams Council, Mr Adel Salman, President of Islamic Council Victoria and Shaikh Muhammad Nawaj who was representing Shaikh Isse Abdo Musse, President of the Board of Imams Victoria.

During his speech, Hon Tony Burke MP appreciated the contribution of community organisations like IPDC in providing support to the people and families in need. In his view, this cooperation represents the ‘best of Australia’ and he thanked the IPDC workers for their selfless work.

Hon Andrew Giles MP, representing Hon Anthony Albanese MP also, asked the audience to reflect on multiculturalism and its challenges to create a better society. He suggested that various challenges such as Islamophobia still exist in our society, and everyone should come forward to overcome those challenges.

Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamed, the Grand Mufti of Australia, said that this organisation is a true reflection of the contribution of Islam and Muslims in this great country. At this time of racism, extremism and violence, such organisations will make a great difference and authentic religious practice is essential to remove misconceptions from the public mind.

Senator Janet Rice emphasised the importance of acknowledgement and rights of the First Nation people in Australia, which can lead to a thriving multicultural country. She praised the social supports provided by the IPDC to many people around the country and expressed her hope for peace, a better environment and justice in a better world through bringing people together.

Mr Christopher Minns MP appreciated how IPDC started humbly more than 20 years ago in NSW and expanded continuously around the country, providing valuable support to the community members. According to him, such organisations are essential in explaining faith in an Australian context, providing space for people to practise their faith and celebrate their culture.

Mr David Shoebridge MLC said that this is the time when we are in most need of peace and unity in Australia and worldwide. When the crisis was severe and the situation was fragile, the multicultural segments of Australia stepped up and worked in the forefront, he acknowledged.

Ms Natalie Suleyman MP, representing Hon Ros Spence MP said, the more we learn about the culture and tradition of others, the better we understand one another. This understanding reflects the core values of Islam: respect, compassion, gratitude and generosity.

Ms Sarah Connolly MP described her experience of visiting the local mosque and Islamic community centre in her constituency and its contributions to society by providing educational and spiritual support.

Ms Lee Rhiannon emphasised the need for support for organisations like IPDC in creating a cohesive and multicultural society tackling racism and other challenges. She talked about the importance of respect and cooperation instead of authoritarianism for a better and equal economic future.

Shaikh Shady Alsuleiman said that Prophet Muhammad (s) was the best model for us to learn how to remain optimistic during the toughest and harshest of times. According to him, organisations like IPDC can serve the community and serve Islam more in difficult times.

Mr Adel Salman commended the partnership and cooperation between various community organisations, including the IPDC and their significant roles in fighting Islamophobia in the Australian society by creating awareness in the larger society about this hateful narrative.

Shaikh Muhammad Nawaj, representing Shaikh Isse Abdo Musse, also expressed his thank to the IPDC for its growth through hard work and dedication of its members and its valuable contribution in building productive younger generations.

A short video presentation on the education and sports activities of the younger generations of the IPDC members called ‘Next-G’ was presented during the meeting.

Among the participants from all states and various cities of Australia included Zia Ahmad, Editor-in-Chief of Australasian Muslim Times AMUST, Khodr Saleh, former Councillor of Canterbury-Bankstown City Council, Mainul Hoque, former President of Canberra Muslim Community, Dr Naim Islam, Chairman of Charity Right Australia, Abdullah Yousuf Shamim, Editor-in-Chief of Suprovat Sydney, Feroze Ahmed and Kamran Ahmed from Al-Ehsan Centre, Shaikh Abu Huraira, Imam of St Marys Masjid, Rashed Khan and Ibrahim Khalil Masud.

Mohammad Moniruzzaman, Secretary-General of the IPDC, moderated this opening session of this year’s AGM. The extraordinary and inspiring meeting was concluded with the Vote of Thanks by Monir Hossain, Central Deputy President of the IPDC.

On behalf of the IPDC, he expressed sincere gratitude to all the guests, IPDC organisers and workers, including the IT team and Next-G team members, and all speakers at the event.

Dr Faroque Amin works with Suprovat Sydney, a Bengali community newspaper published from Sydney, Australia.

Muslim school hosts Australian Citizenship Ceremony in Brisbane

Janeth Deen

One hundred new Australians received their citizenship in the main hall at the Islamic College of Brisbane on 16 October 2021 in a ceremony hosted by the year 10 students from the College dressed in their school uniform and attended by 250 people.

The students set up the stage for the officials which included a member of the three levels of government and welcomed the invited guests and conferees to their seats, ensuring that the overheads for the National Anthem and the pledges were projected for the audience.

The highlight of the event was when the ICB primary choir performed the National Anthem and We Are Australian. They also sang the final song by inviting the children from the audience to join them.

The presiding officer, Dr Jim Chalmers joined the students at the end of the ceremony and congratulated them for an excellent effort.

Sumptuous afternoon tea was provided and served to the guests by the year students After the ceremony.

The event was enjoyed by all and the school received many congratulatory comments praising the students of the school for their excellent efforts in community work.

The Australian Home Affairs Officials who attended the ceremony also took photographs for their own publications. The entire event was live-streamed by Academy Alive. Janeth Deen is a descendant of the first five Muslim families to settle in Brisbane. She is a retired secondary teacher and is a voluntary community worker. She is the Director of the Muslim Charitable Foundation, Trustee of the Holland Park Mosque, President of The QLD Multicultural Council, co-founder and President of the QLD Muslim Historical Society. Curator of the QLD Muslim Museum and Board Director of the Islamic College of Brisbane.

JMI Alumni Victoria celebrates Jamia Foundation Day

AMUST Media

Members of Jamia Millia Islamia Alumni from Victoria and NSW held a virtual celebration on Saturday 30 October 2021 to commemorate the post-centennial first anniversary of Jamia Millia Islamia, an iconic New Delhi based University in India.

The Zoom event hosted by JMI Alumni Association, Victoria, Australia was attended by around 30 participants from Australia and India including members of the Victorian AMU Alumni community.

The session opened with the recitation of Quran by master Ismaeel after Dr Vikrant Kishore, Vice-President of the association and MC for the event welcomed the participants including the three invited guests.

A minute silence was observed in memory of those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr Syed Asif Hasan, President of the association, after welcoming the guests and alumni members spoke eloquently and passionately about Jamia’s history and its contribution to the nation. Mr Hasan introduced his office bearers and informed about the alumni’s future plans and activities.

Amongst the distinguished guests who addressed the gathering included Mr Zia Ahmad, Editor-in-Chief of AMUST, Prof Mohammad Ibrahim from Jamia Millia Islamia who has been involved with Sir Syed Coaching Centre and taught and led research in the area of Engineering, Chemistry and Materials and Prof Farhat Bashir Khan, renowned author, media practitioner, communication strategist and media & communication design innovator who has been associated with the prestigious AJK MCRC in Jamia Millia Islamia.

Mr Zia Ahmad was recognised recently with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Premier’s Multicultural Communications Awards 2021 from the government of NSW in October this year.

Mr Ahmad, Prof Ibrahim and Prof Khan reflected on an amazingly personal highly successful journey from Jamia Millia Islamia and recounted their experiences and special memories as well as the Jamia’s contribution to the millions of students who have built up successful careers in their lives.

These presentations were most interesting and received very well by the audience.

Reports were presented by Ms Yasmin Siddiqui, Mr Saad Ahmed, Mr Shoaib Alam about various activities of the association. Mr Fahad Ahmad provided an overview of the Alumni website development work being undertaken. Mr Gaurav Ghai introduced the new members of the association.

Mr Akhtar Shamim conducted an interesting and enjoyable Trivia related to Jamia Millia Islamia which was participated by all. Mr Shamim announced the winners of the Trivia, topped by Dr Vikrant Kishore, who will be awarded at the next in person meeting of the alumni.

After an open house with members reflecting on the memories of their time at Jamia, a recorded video of Jamia’s Tarana was played which happened to be directed by Prof Khan.

Dr Kishore and Mr Hasan closed the session thanking all participants, particularly, Prof Ibrahim, Prof Khan and Mr Ahmad.

JMI Alumni Association, Victoria, Australia Incorporated is a registered body under Section 8 of Association Reform Act 2012. The Association was formally registered with Consumer Affairs Victoria in May 2021; however, the alumni group has been working informally for some time to promote engagement in various social and community activities.

The Association is an enlightened, resourceful and dynamic group of individuals residing in the state of Victoria who share a common vision of promoting the values of their institution.

Members of the Association dearly uphold the principles of universal education, sharing knowledge and skills, supporting and caring for each other, responding to the needs of the broader community with empathy and compassion; both at a local level as well as overseas, particularly during unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances affecting fellow humans in anyway.

Association members fully embrace the spirit of giving back to the community in various capacities as well as promoting and preserving human rights globally.

The Association maintains a strong ongoing connection with Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi to exchange common interests and work on areas of mutual co-operation. Website: https://jmialumnivic.com.au

Inauguration of MWA Community Centre in Western Sydney

Mr Mohammad Ashraf, Consul General Pakistan in Sydney

The Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of New South Wales

Zia Ahmad

The inauguration ceremony of the newly completed Muhammadi Welfare Association (MWA) Community Centre in Kemps Creek, was held on Saturday 23 October 2021.

MWA is a not-for-profit organisation serving the large community in Sydney since 1989.

In 2013, a 22-acre block of land located at 81-89 Clifton Avenue, Kemps Creek NSW 2178 was acquired in order to construct a centre to cater for the growing needs of the community.

The event was attended by a large number of invited guests including politicians, community and interfaith leaders, business community and a number of diplomats.

The chief guest was The Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of New South Wales who cut the ribbon to inaugurate the centre and addressed the guest present at the event.

Other eminent guests who joined the inauguration included: • Clr Karen McKeown, Mayor Penrith City

Council • Mr Paul Gerard Lynch, MP • Mr Shaoquett Moselmane, MP • Mr Stephen Louis BALI, MP • Mr Philip Ruddock, Mayor Hornsby Shire

Council • Mr Mohammad Ashraf, Consul General Pakistan in Sydney

On behalf of the hosts MWA office bearers addressed the audience including Dr Syed Haider Abbas Naqvi, President, Syed Abul Hassan Jafri General Secretary and Mir Hani Hussain Treasurer.

The program started with the recitation of Quran and Naat, speeches by guests and hosts followed by the ribbon cutting ceremony and a guided tour of the centre.

AIMA conducts Lifesavers program nationwide

UN World Refugee Day: Every action counts

Brisbane, QLD.

Dr Muhammad Ashraf

Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) conducted Lifesavers programs at Mosques and Islamic centres across different Australian states and territories, both physical where possible and virtual in states with COVID-19 lockdown.

On Saturday, 25 September 2021, AIMA conducted a Lifesavers program in Queensland (Brisbane, Mackay and Townsville) Adelaide, South Australia and on Saturday 2 October 2021, in Perth Western Australia.

Lifesaving skills such as hands-on experience with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), management of choking, recovery position and use of Automated Electrical Defibrillator(AED) were taught.

Between 15 to 40 community members, including men, women, and children, attended this program at each site. We had excellent feedback from the attendees and a suggestion to conduct these programs regularly.

AIMA ACT team (Canberra) refused to bow down to COVID restrictions, conducting an online lifesavers program, where 30 people attended this online session.

This tells us that “where there is a will, there is a way.”

Once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, AIMA aims to run these lifesavers programs in every Masjid and Islamic Centre across Australian States and Territories.

The lifesavers program was started in the UK by British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA) in 2014 as the ‘BLS Mosque Project’, teaching life-saving skills in three Mosques in London.

The project has expanded each consecutive year through the immense efforts of the team, in 2019, over 840 volunteers came together to teach BLS to over 4000 members of the public in 114 Mosques nationwide.

Lifesavers is a unique project which aims to unite healthcare professionals, inspire one another & serve their local communities through teaching essential life-saving skills in Mosques around the World!

Lifesaver program was so successful that it was co-opted by the Federation of Islamic medical association (FIMA), and now it runs across all the continents in multiple countries.

This project led to increased attendance of both Muslim men and women to the mosques, including some mosques opening up their doors to Muslim women worshippers.

Details of other activities conducted by the Australian Islamic Medical Association is available on the website: www.aimamed.com.au

Muhammad Ashraf is a general surgeon in regional Queensland and General Secretary of Australian Islamic Medical association

Perth, WA. Adelaide, SA. Aishah Jacobs

On World Refugee Day 2021, Advocates for Dignity (AFD) along with partnering organisation Talent Beyond Boundaries hosted an online webinar on Friday 6 August 2021 to discuss skilled stream migration for refugees in Australia.

The Panelists included Sathya Gnanakaran, Australia and New Zealand director for Talent Beyond Boundaries and joined by two of the program participants, Fadi and Derar.

The robust discussion was moderated by Assala Sayara, a social justice worker and activist both locally and globally.

Rabia Ceylan welcomed all viewers to the webinar on behalf of the partnering organisations Advocates for Dignity and Talent Beyond Boundaries.

World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees globally and its falls on 20 “June every year. Each day across the world thousands of families are forced to leave their homes and leave everything behind in search of a better life and future for themselves.

Today, there are over 80 million displaced people and over 25 million refugees across the world. These aren’t just numbers but real people with real stories and these numbers are simply not good enough. There’s no doubt that we’re in a global refugee crisis and the question shouldn’t be IF we should act but rather WHAT we should do.

Talent Beyond Boundaries is the first organisation in the world to focus on pioneering labor mobility as a complementary solution to traditional humanitarian resettlement. Already, others have begun to implement aspects of their model. They’re committed to sharing resources and supporting governments and other organisations to replicate and expand on this critical work.

A collaborative approach is the fastest and best route to a more equitable system; one that extends life-changing work and migration opportunities to displaced people everywhere.

Refugees are doctors, engineers, skilled trade workers, software developers, and more. Many refugees have marketable skills, yet find themselves in countries where they don’t have the right to work locally and are locked out of international skilled migration systems.

By engaging governments, refugee-serving organisations, the business sector, and local communities, TBB is creating safe, legal pathways that enable displaced people

to move for work, resume their careers, and rebuild their lives with dignity. In the panel Sathya mentions that she “has always wanted to do something with skills and experience in order to make a bigger impact”. The work of TBB reflects this goal perfectly. Derar and Fadi shared moving stories about their own involvement with the TBB program. Fadi tells us that “In 2017 I was a stateless person with no kind of legal identification at all, I had no direct connections to Lebanon… I made a decision that I’m not going to die as a stateless person in Lebanon…TBB was different because they asked me about my skills and languages – for the first time someone was asking me not about my weaknesses but about my strengths”. Fadi now works as a management consultant at Accenture. Derar tell us “I had been in Jordan for 6 years, knocked on many doors looking for an opportunity to improve my life for myself and my family. When I saw TBB, I thought it would be similar to many things I already tried but Refugees are doctors, I got a call within a few days of registering and then we started an interesting journey over 2 engineers, years until I reached Australia…I still remember the day I skilled trade workers, was told I got the job offer – it was one of the most exciting moments of my life.” software Derar now works at internationally recognised financial developers, technology company, Iress. The key message we were and more. “ left with was that refugees have hopes and dreams like the rest of us and only need the opportunity to thrive just as much as anyone else. Fadi says, “They (the general public) are under the assumption that refugees are just people that want to survive, but we are people who have ambitions and dreams, we want to have a chance at life. People don’t take that into consideration, we will give you some shelter and food and live a happy life because that’s all you want as a refugee. That is what sets TBB apart from all the other organisations. No one else allows us to have a life and keep our dignity”. The program was officially closed by Mr Mehmet Saral, President of the Advocates for Dignity, who thanks TBB for joining AFD in making this event possible. He also thanked each of the speakers and particularly the success story of Fadi and Derar in informing our viewers of their inspirational journey to Australia as refugees. Mehmet mentioned of the Turkish refugees currently living in Greece, who could also jump on the TBB program to migrate as skilled resources to democratic nations such as Australia, England, USA and others where TBB has an office. Link to the webinar: https://tinyurl.com/2zydwt92

AIMA webinar: The Digital transformation of Health

Dr Habib Bhurawala

Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) organised an online seminar and Q&A session for medical and health professionals and the community on “The Digital transformation of Health” on Saturday 16 October 2021. Professor Shafi Ahmed, a professor of Surgery, futurist, health technology innovator and entrepreneur from St Bartholomew’s and Royal London Hospital, was the guest speaker at this event.

The online event was attended by medical and other health professionals from different Australian states, internationally, and many Australians from diverse backgrounds, including representatives and office bearers of various community organisations.

The programme commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Ali Kashif, followed by a welcoming address by Dr Muhammed Afzal Kahloon, Canberra based Urologist and President of the Australian Islamic Medical Association.

The host for the event Dr Zeina Merhi, Senior obstetrics and Gynaecology registrar introduced Dr Saleh Khwaja, President of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) branch of AIMA.

Dr Khwaja said that the objective and purpose of AIMA was to unite and inspire Muslim health professionals in Australia where

Professor Shafi Ahmed. Using Virtual Reality, Professor Ahmed hopes to improve healthcare and access to surgery worldwide, especially to those in developing countries.

AIMA members wish to serve and contribute towards the welfare of Muslims and the broader Australian community.

He provided a brief overview of AIMA activities, including blood donation drive, CPR training sessions in Islamic centres and Mosques for community members and more recently, community and school awareness sessions on COVID-19 and vaccines.

Dr Naim Islam, Sydney based senior general practitioner and member of the AIMA NSW executive committee, welcomed and introduced the guest speaker Professor Shafi Ahmed.

Professor Ahmed trained in the UK as a colo-rectal and cancer surgeon. He is a multi-award-winning cancer surgeon that has changed the face of medical education. He has been recognised as the world’s mostwatched surgeon, with his video reaching 140 countries and 4.6 million people on Twitter.

Professor Ahmed has delivered over 250 keynote presentations in more than 30 countries. He is an acclaimed academic with numerous publications in reputed international journals, authors of books and editor of professional journals. He has won multiple awards and was interviewed by numerous international media and TV channels.

Professor Ahmed gave an overview of the digital transformation of health and exceptionally rapid changes occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also discussed and explained various modalities such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, digital health records, connected and virtual care, wearable technology use in healthcare, Robotics, Augmented reality, Apps, Mobile 5G rollout, and its utility in delivering novel mobile health care solutions.

He explained how digital transformation could reduce the cost of providing health care and its utility in resource-poor settings and improve global health.

The question-answer session was moderated by Dr Zeina Merhi and Dr Muhammed Shakib. This session generated much interest from the audience.

The seminar program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Habib Bhurawala, Sydney based Paediatrician and a member of the AIMA executive committee.

Recording of this session and details of other activities conducted by the Australian Islamic Medical association is available on the website: www.aimamed.com.au

Concept of seven skies

Frazia Ali

In the observable Universe There are 125 billion galaxies Where as only 1% is observable and 99% is unoberservable Universe The name of our galaxy is Milkyway There are 100 thousand million stars in our galaxy Radius of sun in solar system is 432690 miles Radius of earth is 3963 miles Can we imagine how tiny our Earth is and how big this Universe is But when we compare this Universe with skies then we find that how is every sky bigger and bigger If we consider this universe is like a balloon and this balloon is wrapped in another balloon which is wrapped in another balloon and so on and so forth Then according to the information in the Quran First sky should be ceiling of this universe and second sky should be ceiling of first sky and so on and so forth “It is Allah who has made for you the earth as a resting place and the sky as a canopy place” -Surah Ghafir 64 Quran Allah we Akbar Allah is great

Frazia Ali is a Pakistani American Muslim single mother. She has two children and lives in San Ramon California, USA. She started writing poetry to spread peace and love through her writing.

Webinar: Feeling down in Lockdown

Dr Habib Bhurawala

Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) organised a Mental Health awareness session, “Feeling down in lockdown”, for the community on 9 October 2021. The purpose of the session was to explain the effects of lockdown on mental health and the prism of mental health from the Islamic perspective. This session also highlighted the ways to identify mental health concerns and where and when to seek help.

The online event was attended by many community members, including representatives and office bearers of various community organisations.

The programme commenced with the recitation of the Quran by Qari Shafeeq, followed by a welcome from Dr Jaweria Shoaib, a psychiatry train-

NOVEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 192

ee and a member of AIMA who was the host for the session.

She welcomed everyone and provided a brief update on the event’s purpose, especially the impact of the lockdown on mental health in NSW and Victoria and the need for education and awareness sessions to benefit community members. She then introduced Dr Nadir Hafiz, Consultant Psychiatrist based in Sydney and executive committee member of AIMA NSW. Dr Nadir further explained that the objective and purpose of AIMA is to unite and inspire Muslim health professionals in Australia. In addition, he stated that AIMA members wish to serve and contribute towards the welfare of Muslims and the broader Austal health illnesses and their effect on physical health, emotional health and family relationships and emphasised the importance of appropriate prevention and health education programs in reducing the impact of mental health.

Dr Nadir introduced Dr Omer Shareef, the keynote speaker at the health education seminar, who spoke on the topic “Feeling down in lockdown.”

Dr Shareef, is a consultant Neuropsychiatrist based in Queensland. He has extensively trained and worked in India, UK and Australia. He is interested in mental health problems in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and Islamic mental health perspectives.

Dr Shareef explained common mental health conditions, when to seek help and emphasised the need to see a family doctor (GP) ensure physical and mental health screening is undertaken early to avoid more severe untreated mental health illness. Dr Shareef provided Islamic and spiritual perspectives regarding mental health.

He also clarified common misconceptions and myths about the mental health conditions in the community, especially in CALD communities and within the Muslim community.

Dr Shareef encouraged the audience to be aware of various risk factors for mental health conditions and seek appropriate professional help in the form of medical/psy-

Dr Omer Shareef

chologist help when symptoms suggest a mental health problem.

He provided an overview of various treatment modalities available for mental health conditions, including psychology, family support, medication, and other support organisations.

An interactive Q&A session followed Dr Shareef’s presentation. This session generated significant interest from the participants.

The seminar program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Nadir Hafiz.

Recording of this session and details of other activities conducted by the Australian Islamic Medical association is available on the website: www.aimamed.com.au

LIFESTYLE 20 22 Concern over Alhadeff’s appointment to SBS Board

Mohamed Ainullah

The hand picked appointment of the former CEO of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, Vic Alhadeff by the Minister for Communications Paul Fletcher without the selection process may “politicise SBS” due to Mr Alhadeff’s pro-Israel track record.

Mr Alhadeff is currently a part-time consultant with the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies and the Executive Council of Australian Jewry. He had previously edited the Australian Jewish News.

In 2014, Mr Alhadeff resigned his position as the Chair of the then NSW Community Relations Commission of NSW (CRC), currently known as Multicultural NSW following intense community protest.

His open public support and defence of Israel during its onslaught against Palestinians in Gaza in that year rendered his position untenable.

There is a panel process that nominates candidates for board positions for the Communications Minister. The Coalition government seem to have overlooked the selection panel’s recommendations to appoint its preferred candidate in this instance.

Since Mr Alhadeff’s name was not put forward in the selection process, Mr Fletcher will have to table his reasons for the appointment in Parliament.

In a letter to the Minister, Chair of the Arab Australian Federation, Mr Eddie Zananiri called for the reversal of the appointment of Mr Alhadeff to the public broadcaster due to his controversial position in the community. “The community was rightly concerned about Mr Alhadeff’s capacity to execute his duties with complete objectivity as the chair of the CRC.”

“Mr Alhadeff used Fact Sheets provided by the Israeli military to advocate the Israeli point of view. This was done at a time when more than one thousand (1,000) people, mainly women and children, were killed by the Israeli army to which Israel faced the condemnation of the UN and most of the world.”

“We justifiably have grave concerns about his proven inability to discharge his duties equitably and objectively in a manner that advances inclusion and positive community relations.”

“In fact, his appointment is divisive, would politicise SBS and would alienate a large segment of the Australian public. SBS must not become a party to the Palestine-Israel conflict.”

“We therefore call upon you to reverse the appointment of Mr Alhadeff to the SBS Board as a matter of urgency.”

The President of The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils was surprised over the appointment of a divisive figure at the much loved multicultural public broadcaster that stands for diversity and inclusion.

“We were shocked to see a blatant Israel propagandist appointed to the SBS board. Such an appointment is not merely judgement in its poorest, but a clear anti-Palestinian bias that adds to zionist imbalance in the Australian media landscape. This appointment must be immediately overturned. SBS should never be turned into a propagandist for apartheid Israel,” Dr Rateb Jneid, AFIC President said.

NSW MP Shaoquett Moselmane also raised concern over the appointment of Mr Alhadeff fearing that this may lead to the silencing of Palestinian narrative on SBS.

“The community’s response in overwhelmingly condemning the Minister’s board appointment is telling of the broader community’s fear of politicisation of the SBS.”

“They fear the decision condemns the SBS and it’s staff to years of implicit monitoring and silencing. Resulting in potentially shutting down frank and fearless discussion on Israeli transgressions and reporting on the terrible plight of the Palestinian people.”

“The cumulative effect is the creation of a culture of silence, compliance and self censorship across the SBS, will become the norm.”

“If the Minister cared about the SBS, then he ought to have done his due diligence and selected a more suitable candidate.”

Vic Alhadeff.

Changes to Equal Opportunity Act targets religious institutions

Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas

Freedom of Religion is under attack in Victoria where the state government is looking to introduce new legislation that restricts Islamic, Christian and other faith schools on who they can and can’t employ.

This would mean that Islamic schools may be forced to employ staff members that disagree with their Islamic ethos and religious beliefs. The worst part is, this infringement of religious liberties, a birthright of every human being, is done beneath the sheep’s wool of “equality.”

In a country where 80% of Muslim people have experienced unfavourable treatment, it’s no surprise the Andrew’s government is taking a top down approach to further fueling division and discrimination by using the Equal Opportunity Act changes as a facade to further marginalise faith communities. (1)

The Guardian reports, “Religious schools in Victoria will be banned from discriminating against staff on the basis of their sexuality, gender identity or marital status, under legislation to be introduced by the state government later this year.

Religious schools in Victoria currently have the power to sack or refuse to hire LGBTIQ+ people on the basis of their sexuality or gender identity, and marital status.” (2)

There is no other country in the world with these types of proposed laws. (3)

It’s interesting how such aggressive measures were never taken for equal opportunity where Australian Muslims were concerned. This includes the systemic discrimination against hijab wearing Muslim women, who’ve repeatedly had to settle for jobs they’re overqualified for, or the young people who’ve been denied equal opportunity in employment due to their ‘Muslims sounding’ name.

Understandably many faith based school communities are deeply concerned with the proposed changes. One of the main reasons why parents choose to send their children to Islamic schools is the distinct Islamic values and ethos the school is built upon.

It’s been a tough couple of years and in the lead up to the federal and state elections, Australia’s faith communities must take their vote seriously.

It’s no longer an option to keep voting for the same familiar members, who aren’t doing enough to protect freedom of religion or proactively advocating against racism and Islamophobia in Australia.

Australian Muslims must side with members who demonstrate a commitment to protecting freedom of religion for all, in line with International Human Rights. (4)

It’s important to especially be cautious where words like “Equality” and “Inclusion” are being thrown around. These don’t necessarily mean they support policies that are inclusive of Australian Muslims or in the best interests of marginalised ethnic and faith communities.

A campaign by National Secular Lobby with the slogan Don’t Divide Us, is one such example of a campaign that appears to be about inclusion, but is run by a lobby group who are committed to “removing religious privilege in legislation.” How is that inclusive of faith groups?

Groups with aggressive ideologies that are anti-religion or anti-God sometimes use these words to lure in voters from ethnic, migrant and faith communities, many who mistakingly believe they’re voting for someone who will stand up for their human right of religious liberty.

Instead, vote for members that explicitly advocate for protecting freedom of religion in Australia, are commitment to tackling Islamophobia, dismantling institutionalised racism and oppression in all its forms.

These are the underlying issues causing intersectional barriers and inequality in employment, housing, quality education, participation in politics at all levels of government, in leadership positions, in sports, and ofcoursr the reduced services and infrastructure per capita in our highly diverse, low-socioeconomic regions.

The same can’t be said for all minority groups.

Instead of using the EOA to pit one minority group against another with these ‘othering’ legislations, we really need leaders that can develop policies and legislation that don’t infringe on the freedoms of vulnerable and marginalised communities, and call it equality.

Pitting one minority group against the other is not equality nor inclusion. It’s a part of an aggresssive secular agenda with the greater end goal of erasing all trace of God from society.

At the next election, vote for members that are pro-collaboration, pro-community building and anti-racism and Islamophobia.

Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas is the president of Whittlesea Interfaith Network and Head of Community Engagement at Al Siraat College. Gulhan has four published books and a robust history of advocacy for gambling industry reform, Interfaith engagement, Muslim female leaders and mentoring young people to be spokespeople for their community.

Muslims need to respond via the ballot box

Ahmed Kilani

The Muslim community in Western/South Western Sydney appears to be in a justifiable state of communal anxiety and anger from the manner in which the NSW Police has been imposing government sanctioned health orders in these areas.

From the countless personal accounts of many and the public media exposure to confirm it, any reasonable person can only conclude that the excessive use of force of certain members of the NSW Police has been disproportionate and hypocritical when compared to how they have imposed the health orders in other parts of Sydney.

Are they going to be held accountable? How are they going to repair the huge damage they have inflicted on the relationship with the community? How are they going to return to a community based approach of protect and serve?

These are all questions that only the NSW Police and the State Government can answer……or chose to answer.

At the end of the day, as with everything in life, we may not be able to control the actions of others, but we can always control how we respond to it.

I want to remind myself and others that Allah is the best of planners.

All that is happening is for a good reason and there is always Khair in everything, Alhamdulillah. If we can’t see it or understand, Allah in his divine wisdom knows.

Do not feel despondent, Do not lose hope. This is unbecoming of a true Muslim.

Muslims, whether locally or globally, have been and will continue to be the focus of attention and bigotry. This is the age we live in.

Our current role is to be patient and uphold our Faith in all of our dealings, especially with non Muslims. We have our own noble standards and we should not dishonour these in responding to the lowly acts of others.

The best response we can make to non Muslims to soften their hearts, is to always maintain our dignity and the best of manners, no matter what the situation is.

Over time, like water dripping onto a stone, we will make a positive impregnable permanent mark on society.

But this does not mean that we accept and allow ourselves as individuals and a community to be a punching bag to illegal thuggery from the NSW Police – indirectly endorsed and sanctioned by the State government by not holding them to account for the use of excessive force.

The community of South Western/Western Sydney – especially the Muslim community – need to realise they have enormous political power that they need to harness and exercise.

There is a Federal election due anytime from now till March 2022. There is a NSW state election due in less than 18 months.

Community leaders should organise mass enrol to vote drives, and teach and guide your community to be politically active. The community needs to run respected courageous independent candidates who can get at least 10% – 20% of the vote and control the balance of power in the seats – state and federal.

This will then mean that the major political parties will need your votes to win the seat and ultimately government. You need to marginalise all the seats. This is how you exert pressure on politicians to gain real change.

As Muslims make up a significant minority in many state and federal seats, if we alone were able to unite and mobilise, we could have a huge impact on who wins government.

This is not some words of outburst or rhetoric to make us feel good. It is a factual statistic reality that can be transformed into real world political power and change with some grassroots organising and determination.

If we want to have honour and dignity, we need to stand up and take it! Stop whining and being a victim and do something about it.

If you want to see a change, individually become politically active so collectively we can make real change.

Spiritually we must all work harder to perfect our manners, show love for all living creatures and have full trust that Allah will protect us.

Now is the time to be thankful for being honoured to be part of the Nation of Prophet Muhammad (S). Have confidence in who we are and what we represent.

As the Quran teaches us we are “khulafa alarad” (custodians of the earth) and we must never forget this role that Allah gave us and make sure we live up to the high responsibility it carries.

Now is the time to step up our ibadaah and our daawah. It is not time to go back under your shell or go into hiding as others would want.

Our best response is to smile back at the world and be proud of who we are and what we represent! Allah will always protect our faith and community.

Our job is to act with knowledge, wisdom, kindness and most importantly these days courage with full trust in what Allah has decreed.

May Allah make us those that will uphold and practice Islam in its pure true and exemplary essence.

May Allah enlighten our hearts and minds and make us of those who that can see beyond what our two eyes see.

May Allah make us those of who will use their hearts, minds and bodies to aide the causes of justice and empower goodness in others.

May Allah aid, uplift and protect all those that are suffering – Muslim and non Muslim – from injustice and oppression.

May Allah make those that are suffering have patience and diminish the sorrow and sadness that they feel.

May Allah unite the hearts and minds of those that are challenging the forces of injustice, inequality and oppression and allow them to confront and defeat them in a manner that does not transgress.

May Allah keep us patient, steadfast and acting in complete conviction that the victory of good against evil has been assured by you Allah, whether we witness it in our lives or not.

May Allah make us of those that will get up in the middle of the night and call upon you, with sincerity in our hearts and tears in our eyes, to uplift the oppression and suffering of those innocents that are in pain.

May Allah protect us and our loved ones from the tyranny of our times and make us to be in the company of those that will revive the Islamic Ummah and the world.

May Allah make these sad days be days we will look back on with fondness in years to come as the time that the Ummah truly woke up from its deep slumber.

May Allah protect us from tribulation/ corruption, internal and external, and raise amongst us those that will restore justice and peace to all; and make us and our progeny be of those who will share their company.

Ameen, Ameen, Ameen.

Ahmed Kilani has been involved in community work for over 20 years as a advocate/ advisor.

Premier of NSW, Dominic Perrottet, went to our school

Imran Afiouni & Moses Afiouni a current teacher at Redfield College. Unlike most schools, Redfield College places academics second to character buildA mere week out from ing, focusing on “education of the whole ‘freedom day’, Gladys person”. Part of the PARED foundation, Berejiklian’s resignation Redfield College prides itself on supportsaw a shift in leadership ing students as they grow and develop from at a time of unrest and boys to young men. uncertainty. So who is Dr Andrew Mullins, the longest serving our newly elected Pre- principal at Redfield stated “It is not what mier of NSW? the community gives to you, but what you

School Captain in 2000 can give back.” and State leader in 2021, Dominic Perrottet Why is it then that a man who is willing was sworn in as the young- to serve his state, has faced criticism over est Premier in NSW’s his- so-called being too ‘conservative’? A nation tory based on a 39/5 vote. which promotes freedom of one’s lifestyle However, do the people of and advocates for diversity, ironically have NSW truly know who their made assumptions on a man’s right to beleader is? lieve. Dominic Perrottet, one One’s ability and service to the public of 13 siblings and a father should not be disregarded because of their of 6, prides himself on the faith but rather promoted as part and parcel centrality of family in his life. “Being a fa- of diversity. ther is my number one priority, and it’s fair Being Muslim students at a Catholic to say being Premier comes as a close sec- School has taught us the valuable lesson ond,” says Perrottet. that identity including one’s faith should not

The focus placed on core values including hinder an individual’s participation let alone the centrality of family for Dominic Per- leadership in society. rottet roots from his days as a schoolboy. Dominic Perrottet is an inspiring leader Dominic attended Redfield College from and we have confidence that his core values Year 3 and later graduated Year 12 in 2000. will be at the forefront of his leadership.

“He (Perrottet) was keen on political and Traditional family values have been disocial issues back then,” says Chris Cullen, minished in the public eye where the gift of family is seen as a threat to society instead of a blessing.

Perrottet in 1994. Perrottet (left) in 2000.

pleting his final year and is soon to graduate Year 12. Moses who is in Year 10 enjoys playing sports and is keen on exploring the similarities between all faiths.