Desi Australia Monthly Magazine February 2022 edition by Desi Australia

FEBRUARY 2022

“Keeping you connected”

Know Your

South Asian

Councillors (NSW)

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NEWS I HEALTH I COMMUNITY NEWS I TECHNOLOGY I ENTERTAINMENT I TALENT

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TIME TO TRAVEL

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WHAT’S INSIDE 06

Young Indian Australian Drummer Breaks Guinness World Record of newly elected 10 Felicitation 22 Councillors from the Indian Sub continent back ground

12 I Resolve to ………

prison cells to Sikh gurdwara: 20 From how officer uses faith to help others

14 “Foreseeable Future”

Australia Day 2022- Adelaide 24 Aand day full of activities reflecting, respect celebrating our diverse heritage

My Life, My Story Empowering Women through Storytelling & Exhibition at Blacktown

Jason Yat-sen Li, the Labor candidate in the Strathfield by-election on February 12 with the 30 Living new ‘ING’s - 2022 Rajvanshi Receives UP 31 Rekha Hindi Sansthan’s ‘Hindi Videsh Prasar Samman’ insights from the 36 Some successful students from HSC 2021: A guide for HSC 2022

23 My Life, My Story - Empowering Women through Storytelling & Exhibition at Blacktown Download Our App

Celebration of Indian Republic Day at the Consulate General Office (Sydney) India @75 FEBRUARY I 2022

It is not easy but it is not impossible either www.DesiAustralia.com

PUBLISHER

Hello Everyone,

Desi Media Group (Desi Australia Pty Ltd)

This year India is celebrating Azadi ka Amrit Mahautsav- 75 years of Independence.

Editor-in-chief Arti Banga

NSW Editor:

Republic Day celebrations were organised at the Consulate office in Sydney along with the celebrations across the major cities of Australia.

Harmohan Walia

Sales and Marketing: Dimple Deez

Victoria Editor: Daljeet Bakshi

Indian have made an amazing progress from the year 1947 to 2022, not only in India but across the globe. In the recent council election held in NSW 22 Councillors from the South Asian background were elected. We spoke to each of them and have introduced them in this edition.

Queensland Editor: Priya Singh

ACT Editor: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

Western Australia Editor: Ankita Tandon

South Australia Editor: Daljeet Bakshi

Designer

Ravi Mathur

Address: Desi Australia Pty Ltd PO Box 102, Casula, NSW 2170 Email : info@DesiAustralia.com

Mob: 0433121339

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. Do not re-use any content and photo from Desi Australia without the prior written permission from the editor. All the material published in Desi Australia, including articles, features, fillers, advertisements, and all other contents, are published in good faith, and the editor or the Desi Australia magazine cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions. All material is published on the understanding that it is copyright free, and Desi Australia accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. We also cannot accept responsibility for and do not endorse views expressed by the contributors.

In this edition we have also brought in light 11 year old A R Pritis, the new Guinness record holder and also covered the stories, experiences and achievements of our local heroes. We hope that you enjoy read-

Arti Banga

Editor-in-Chief

ing this edition. If you have any stories that you want us to share then please feel free to reach out to us. A reminder to get your booster shot and stay safe & healthy. DesiAustralia.com “Keeping you connected”

Join the United Australia Party – go to unitedaustraliaparty.org.au

UAP13469H3R

Vote 1 United Australia Party Authorised by Craig Kelly, United Australia Party, Level 17, 240 Queen Street, Brisbane 4000

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Talent

Young Indian Aus Breaks Guinnes In Conversation with AR Pritish Q: So how do you feel about being the world’s fastest drummer? A: It’s pretty exciting and it’s a really good title. I like it. Q: Can you tell us how you became a Guinness World record holder? What did the process involve? A: I received the award on the 15th of December but I had to practice for seven months before that to improve my hand strength.

By: Ruhani Dhillion

Meet A R Pritish! At the young age of 11, he is officially the world’s fastest drummer! Desi Australia had the pleasure of speaking with this Guinness World Record holder who has broken the record for the most drumbeats in a minute using drumsticks, with a total of 2,370 – that’s 39.5 beats per second. And that’s not all, Pritish is also one of the youngest people ever to pass the highest level (Grade 8) drums exam at Trinity College London.

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Q: When did you first start drumming? A: I started drumming when I was five years old. Okay. Um, so my Mum wanted me to, get involved in something musical. So, I chose to play the drums and it wasn’t as popular as the rest of the instruments. Q: Do you take drumming lessons? A: Yes, I go to a music school and I also learn Indian drumming which means I learn from two teachers now - Western drumming in Sydney and

Indian drumming by a teacher based in Chennai. Q: What’s your favourite genre of music? A: Oh, my favourite genre is heavy metal. Q: And how often do you practice the drums? A: So, I wake up early, do an hour of practice in the morning, and after school I do my homework and then practice for two more hours plus I practice for six hours on weekends. Q: Who do you draw your inspiration from? A: I’m inspired by my two teachers and to create music, I draw my inspiration from AR Rahman. Q: And is anyone else in your family interested in music? A: Not really, but my little sister is learning how to play the keyboard. Q: Who encourages you to push your limits? A: My teachers and my parents. Q: Would you like to be part of a band? A: Yeah, one day I would like to make my own band where I can compose and perform my own heavy metal music. Q: Do you have any other hobbies or interests outside of music?

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Talent

stralian Drummer ss World Record A: Yes, I play cricket, am learning karate and I swim. Q: Do you play any other musical instruments? A: Yes, I play the mridangam which is a classical Indian drum and I also take Carnatic singing lessons. I play the keyboard too alongside other percussion instruments like the bongos, congas and djembe.

and keep trying. Desi Australia has no doubt Pritish will do wonders and we wish this young maestro all the best in his musical journey.

Q: What do your family and friends think of your drumming skills? A: They think it’s really awesome. Q: Has anyone ever asked you for a drumming lesson? A: Yes, at school they sometimes ask me to teach them. Q: And have you ever thought about what you want to be when you grow up? A: I want to learn more instruments and become a really great musician. Q: And do you have any words of advice for other young musicians? A: I would say hard work

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Mag Corner

Jason Yat-sen Li, the Labor candidate in the Strathfield by-election on February 12

ason was one of the founders of the Unity Party. He later joined the Australian Labor Party (ALP) and was an endorsed candidate at the 2013 and 2019 federal elections. In 2022 he has been preselected as the party’s candidate for the 2022 Strathfield state by-election on 12th Feb. Desi Australia had the opportunity to speak with Jason and here is what he has to say:

What motivated you for this Position? I have been a lawyer, a businessman and an investor, and I and the father of three kids. I have served the community though my work on charities and organisations devoted to fighting poverty and supporting multiculturalism and inclusion. Now I want to give back to the State the gave my family so much. Your Job Will Come With Lots of Criticism. How Will You Handle That? I have always accepted that criticism and debate is a part of of life – not just as a public figure but as a business owner and especially as a parent! It is important to show respect and engage constructively even if you have a different point of view. What is Your Take on ‘No’ For an Answer?

The only time that you don’t take no for an answer, is when facing injustice. Mention a Strength that Qualifies You For This Position Growing up in a migrant family is something that I bring to everything I do – my passion for education, my belief in family and empowering people to build better lives and businesses, and my support for a well funded health system so that all of us – including our elders – have the best care as they age. This community is driven by the same values that I inherited from my parents. How Will You Stay Motivated In This Role? My motivation comes from my belief that all people – no matter what their background – should have the opportunity to go wherever their talent and ambition can take them. I am also motivated by a desire to address injustice and empower volunteering in the community. What is the Main Challenge That You Foresee In This Role? The immediate challenge for the Strathfield community is getting through the

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pandemic. We have businesses going to the wall, families under severe financial stress and a health system struggling to cope. When the Government under the new Premier Dominic Perrottet abandoned common sense health advice they devastated the economy and delayed our recovery. If elected, please mention a Strategy and Mindset That You Intend to Use in this position. My mindset is always my work ethic and my positive outlook on life. My parents started with very little, but with hard work and optimism, they were able to achieve so much. What change can locals of Strathfield look forward to in the area if you are elected? If I am elected I want to continue the good work done to represent this community by Jodi McKay. She was leader of the Labor Party, but she was first and foremost a local member of integrity, energy and heart. I will strive to continue that work and bring my own life and business experience to solving problems. www.DesiAustralia.com

How to vote

Jason Yat-sen Li

Electoral District of Strathfield

START HERE For early voting information scan here

State By-election February 12.

Voting is compulsory - don’t risk a fine.

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ROBERTSON, Ellie

LI, Jason Yat-Sen

FARRELLY, Elizabeth

LAXMANALAL, Rohan

BUCKLEY, Courtney

SAKR, Bridget

Sustainable Australia Party Stop Overdevelopment / Corruption

Labor

Independent

Animal Justice Party

The Greens

Authorised by Bob Nanva, Australian Labor Party (NSW Branch), Level 9, 377 Sussex St Sydney NSW 2000.

LABOR FOR STRATHFIELD

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Mag Corner

Felicitation of newly electe from the Indian Sub contin organised by Indian Support Centre

T By: Harmohan Walia

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he Indian Support Centre celebrated Australia Day and Indian Republic Day and felicitated 22 newly elected Councillors to NSW Local Govt from the Indian Sub Continent on 28 January 2022 at Redgum Function Centre, Wentworthville.

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Hon Mark Coure MP, Minister for Multiculturalism was the Guest of Honour. Mr Manish Gupta, Consul General of India, Sydney and Hon Minister Geoff Lee also attended the event. Congratulations to Mr Subba Rao Varigonda, Head of the Indian Support Centre for a successful event in the

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Mag Corner

ted 22 Councillors inent back ground Pushpa Jagdish noted singers of Sydney. Ms Kumud Merani and Priyanka were the MCs.

covid environment. Mr Subba Rao announced that the building of the Indian Support Centre will be constructed in the next two years with the cooperation

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of Indian Sub Continent community and assistance from State/Federal Govts. The program started with patriotic songs by Vinod Kumar Rajput and

FEBRUARY I 2022

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Mag Corner

I RESOLVE TO ……… “No one ever regarded the First of January with indifference. It is that from which all date their time, and count upon what is left.” – Charles Lamb in the shortest time possible. While some of us make a promise to change a bad habit, such as quit smoking or reduce the consumption of junk food, some others make a promise to develop a positive habit, such as starting an exercise program, volunteering in their community, or recycling more. But we don’t take into consideration the fact that to make any change, be if on the New Year Day or any other day, preparations must be made well in advance. It like planning your meal prep and having it ready before you decide to change your eating habits. That way you are setting yourself up for success.

Writer- Poornima Menon

very new year comes with new hopes, hopes that things would get better, hopes that all is not lost and hopes that finally we will be free of the mutated forms of the virus. And while in the pre-Covid times we may have embarked on our ‘new’ journey with stars in our eyes and a spring in our step, now we take the step forward tentatively with fingers and toes crossed, hoping against hope that we have seen the last of Covid infections and lockdowns. As the last minute of December 31 phases out and the countdown begins, each of us feels that tiny flutter of butterflies and as our hearts pound, our psyche turns on that new switch and just like that everything becomes new – all disappointments fade away. For most the New Year is undoubtedly the time to’ fix’ things

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Poornima Menon with New Year Resolutions. Interestingly, making New Year Resolutions is not a modern phenomenon. New Year’s Day celebrations, it is said began in the pre-Christian era, with the Babylonians who celebrated it in March. This was later changed to January by the Romans. January gets its name from the two-faced Roman God Janus, who looks backwards into the old year and forwards into the new. Janus was also believed to be the patron and protector of arches, gates, doorways, endings, and beginnings. While the Babylonians and the Romans made promises to their Gods at the start of each year, in the medieval era at the end of the Christmas season the knights took the ‘peacock vow’ to re-affirm their commitment to chivalry. There is no perfect scenario and no perfect day. Things that didn’t happen or materialise in the last 365 days were not going to miraculously change one fine morning. Change is good, and any change for the better is always perfectly legitimate. Resolutions like anything else come in many forms. New Year’s resolutions are desires to immediately correct / change certain habits that have perhaps taken years to establish. We want to turn a ‘new leaf’ FEBRUARY I 2022

I don’t indulge in New Year Resolutions anymore. The younger version of me made new year resolutions and then fretted when I couldn’t keep up with all the promises, I had made to myself, ending up more unhappy than I was when I started. Then began another long wait for the next new year, with another chance to renew the resolutions and the cycle continued. The one thing the past two years have taught me is to live by the day. So, I devised the method of making corrections as and when they happened. I cultivated the habit of doing regular spot checks. This has helped me avoid getting into a rut or beating myself up for not living up to my ‘resolutions’. Every day is a new day that I am grateful for. My priorities have changed. I wake up with gratitude and go to bed with gratitude. Life is beautiful. Sonali Saxena has succinctly summarised her lessons from 2021. Her valuable takes from the year gone by are, “Time is transient – don’t hold on to it but make the most of it. Life is best enjoyed when you let it flow. Uncertainty is the only certainty in life. Enjoy the differences when you meet people; that is what makes a wonderful company. Friends add colour to your life – enjoy the whole spectrum. Family is the foundation that anchors you. Continue to strengthen it”. Moving forward with these life lessons, Sonali has decided to make 2022 the “year for ME, dedicated to all things ME and people who matter to ME”. www.DesiAustralia.com

Mag Corner

Kala Philip With the beginning of every brand-new year, Kala Philip has always had the natural tendency to reflect on her past and make changes to the next chapter with a view to make life more purposeful and meaningful. She also takes a holistic approach, considering work, family, self-development, spirituality, and health. She feels that Covid has helped in a way, and she has spent time thinking about what is important to her in life for the next ten years, her values and how she spends her time. Her top goals for 2022 include, “Setting boundaries, enjoying her work, considering her finances, nurturing relationships, focussing on her health and Having down time”. Pooja Sethi says that while a new year means new resolutions and new possibilities, people make resolutions and forget them in a few weeks time. Her advice is not to fret about it but to trust yourself and to ask yourself the question ‘what would your future want from yourself and how to be there where you want to see yourself in 2022”? She believes that belief in oneself is half the battle won. She says, “If you think you can make this promise, you will succeed in all your resolutions”. Her suggestion is to follow three simple practices, “Build trust, for no relationship is possible without trust in the people, celebrate the joy of life with as many people as you can and stay determined and just take action, and remember, no action is small”. Yamini Hemanth’s top task in 2022 is to declutter. She sees a world of difference in the concept of shopping as she understood it in her childhood to the present. The purDownload Our App

chasing has shifted from ‘needs’ to ‘wants’. In ‘those’ days there were no ‘on the spur’ purchases, and the family could never spend on something not budgeted. She says that when she got married and started earning, she was exposed to several lifestyle stores; new flower vases, sets of dinnerware and tablecloth, that could have been otherwise avoided, made their way from the shelves of the stores to her home. “During sale it didn’t matter if I was size L, if something I liked was M of XL, I would still buy it,” she remarks in jest. Well in this matter, Yamini is not alone, for there are many who get carried away by the ‘Sale’ tag and are guilty of such impulsive indulgences. Yamini also feels that as the size of the home and purchasing capacity grows, one continues to add to the collection, only realising the weight of the collection when cleaning and maintenance become a herculean task. She now asks herself, “How much is actually enough? Two factors for me are space and need. ‘Need’ is difficult to measure, while space is an important factor. Now I’m conscious whether to get that extra 10 kilos of rice just because I visited the grocery, or if I should just be putting items around the home to improve the decor. It’s not about minimalism, it’s about valuing each item around. And that is my conscious New Year resolution. I might not be 100% at it (temptations will be there) but yes it will be inching above average”. Like people, years are individualist too and no two years are alike. The experiences each year brings with it are learning moments that add another layer to our

Pooja Sethi FEBRUARY I 2022

Yamini Hemnath personality, changes our relationships with people as we add new people and let go of those who no longer have a place in our life. While I know about some of the major events that 2022 will bring for me, I have no idea what the little and minor ones will be. Change or being in change is hard, no matter at what point on the calendar you start. And as change is uncomfortable and at times agonising, procrastination becomes an easy option. Unfortunately for those who do try to change, an accidental slip-up is sometimes viewed as a total failure. And instead of making it an opportunity to learn and grow, it quickly becomes an excuse to return to familiarity of the ‘old’ ways, with a promise to change ‘next’ year. The undeniable fact is that any change to be made, must be made by the individual. If I want to break some unsavoury habits of mine, I will have to replace them with healthier ones. Changes bring with them discomfort; and it must be a discomfort of my choosing. So, while New Year Resolutions mean different things to different people and mean nothing to some people, there can never be a New Year without at least a talk about the resolution – it could be an argument, a disagreement, a determination, or just plain indifference. But one thing is for sure, there is something magical about the words ‘New’ and ‘Resolution’ – there is a ring of ‘Hope’. It is time for you to look back and check on what you have achieved in this first month of 2022. How many of you have stuck to your resolutions? Remember to be easy on yourself and take one day, one week and then one month at a time. And before you know it you would have achieved what you had set out to attain. Good luck! www.DesiAustralia.com

Entertainment

“Foreseeable Future” Foreseeable Future is a short film directed by former RMIT Student Kirtan Singh, produced by Chawla Creations and Blackcurrant Studios. It stars Satinder Chawla, Rose Kaur Bawa, Sandy Singh, Raji Mussavar and Daman Chawla.

Latham Smith and Beth McInerney crew on set.

Daljeet Bakshi

atinder Chawla discussed with Kirtan and provided points for a short film he wanted to make. The key concept was for it to be a silent film following Mr Chawla playing a blind character. Over the next few weeks, Kirtan wrote the script and developed it. The two met on several occasions to discuss the story.

bolstered the grounded and emotionally driven story.

They filmed across two days in January 2021 and the crew had a great time on set. Although the weather led to some scheduling changes, everything was shot as planned and provided enough footage for a complete and satisfying edit. The film was edited by Kirtan, with the score and sound mixing done by Harmanjit Singh. He actively worked on recording a clear voice over of Mr Chawla and crafted a beautiful arrangement that

With the hope of filming the short as soon as possible, the two reached out to actors and had fellow RMIT students, Download Our App

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The film has continued its run at film festivals for over a year now. It has won Best Student Award at the Golden Leaf Festival, been a quarter finalist at the International Film & Entertainment Festival Australia (IFEFA), and has been selected for festivals including: the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne Made in Melbourne Sidebar, Goa Film Festival, Pune Short Film Festival and

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many more. Since finishing the film many of the crew have gone to work on other projects, excelling in their field. Kirtan has graduated from RMIT and both him and Mr Chawla have worked on several individual projects. Both they and the rest of the cast and crew hope to work together again in the future.

FEBRUARY I 2022

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Community News | Sydney

National Backyard C

Multicultural Ambassadors in conversation wi In a one on one conversation with Desi Australia National Backyard Cricket’s Multicultural Ambassadors Ash and Simran Gulati share their love for the game of cricket how they are promoting this excellent initiative.

By Poonam Naik

What is National Backyard Cricket? National Backyard Cricket is a community event open to everyone of all ages to take time out with family and friends to play a game of cricket for a good cause. The funds raised from the initiative will go towards supporting regional country libraries in Australia and tertiary education projects in other cricket-playing nations. Many of us have fond memories of playing

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cricket in our backyards, local park or neighbourhood. National Backyard Cricket is a great way to enjoy cricket this summer while making a difference by improving educational opportunities and quality for disadvantaged children in Australian and overseas. Australians can play their game of Backyard Cricket anytime over the summer in the lead-up to National Backyard Cricket Day on Sunday 6th February 2022. What is the most memorable experience you have of either playing or watching a cricket game? There are too many fond memories we have of watching cricket. Through the years we have gone to some great matches at the SCG, The Gabba & MCG and we have loved rooting for India & Australia through the years.

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However, if we had to pick one memory that sticks out, it has to be the most recent one. Our son, who is 8, LOVES cricket and has recently started playing for his local club. Our family is now all about cricket with practices & game nights; it’s cricket 24-7 at our home, and his focus on the game has made it the most fruitful time for us. There is a strong Indian and South Asian cricketing community in Australia. In what ways does cricket bring these communities together? Yes, there is a strong South Asian community in Australia. There are players at all levels of Cricket who are of the South Asian origin and that makes us proud. Moreover, in community sports, there are lots of Indians/South Asians whose kids are

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Community News | Sydney

Cricket’s

ith Desi Australia

playing the game and it’s bringing us parents together as we get to relive our childhood and watch our kids play the sport we all love. Cricket also brings us foodies together. We love to share our My Team India pies with the club and other parents bring delicious food for everyone so we all enjoy yummy South Asian food together while watching our favourite sport. National Backyard Cricket is raising funds. Who will be the beneficiaries? Funds raised from National Backyard Cricket will support education for underprivileged children in regional Australia and other cricket-playing nations. In 2021, a total of $70,000 in funding grants raised was distributed to 54 Australian county libraries working with Friends of Libraries Australia (FOLA). The LBW Trust, of which National Backyard Cricket is the fundraising arm, currently also supports 1,500 tertiary students to undertake university or vocational education via 11 NGOs in 8 cricket playing countries including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Afghanistan and Indonesia. In 2021, Indian and Sri Lankan students were key recipients of the funds raised by National Backyard Cricket, and this was invaluable to support their education and relieve the pressure on their families facing the devastating impact of the pandemic. By registering a game or donating at https:// www.nationalbackyardcricket.com/, you can help National Backyard Cricket provide transformational educational opportunities for disadvantaged young men and women and give them a brighter future. You have paved the way for representation of Indian Australians on Australian TV, showcasing the diversity of Indian food and culture on the big screen. What was the experience like representing your community onscreen? Tell us more about the Samosa Pie which the judges loved.

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We loved cooking on Plate of Origin together. It was a very proud moment for us as we felt the weight of every Indian on our shoulders as we cooked and went through the competition. We wanted to break barriers and kill stereotypes and put Indian food on the national stage and we felt we did that and made our community proud. Samosa Pie is Simran’s creativity at the spur of the moment. The judges asked the competing teams to make an Australian icon using our heritage. With limited time, Simran’s idea of Samosa (an Indian icon) into a pie came about and it was the perfect blend of our flavours into an Australian dish. The judges loved the golden-brown crust and the potato filling and we were able to win the round. The judges asked for the recipe and advocated for us to have every Australian taste our pies. We are very excited to have

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launched myteamindia.com.au, where we add Indian flavours into a pie with our ultimate goal of having every Australian taste our pies. As the Multicultural Ambassador for National Backyard Cricket, tell us how you will be promoting this excellent initiative. As Ambassadors for National Backyard Cricket, we take this role very seriously. We have started to position this great initiative locally around with our friends & family. Ash has circulated this initiative within his company to put a team together and we have also made our community aware of this where our son plays cricket. This is an excellent initiative as cricket is a sport that is played worldwide, so there are a lot of cultures that love the game. This initiative brings those cultures together at the same time and have fun for a good cause.

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Community News | Sydney

My Life, My Story - Empowering Women through Storytelling & Exhibition at Blacktown

t is an international gathering and exhibition of visual storytelling of women’s lived experiences. The project explores themes about gender, identity, change and resilience.

By: Harmohan Walia

Maryam Zahid of ‘Afghan Women on the Move’ organised a new exhibition by Afghan women at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre on Saturday 5th of February 2022. Download Our App

My Life, My Story features the debut documentary from Maryam and an exhibition of new works by artists, Arezo Aziz, Sara Barackzay, Lida Sultani Farahin, Neelab Omar and Fozia Zahid and Zahid Ahmed. The exhibition and film draw on interviews with women from the Afghan community in Blacktown and around the world, reflecting on shared lived experiences, triumphs and the strength of the female spirit. Artist Arezo Aziz expresses the inspiration she feels from participating in

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this exhibition as ‘I want to paint more and more women who are standing on stage and talking about how they challenge the patriarchy and injustice.’ Artist Mary Akrami, describes this creative experience as motivation saying ‘Afghan women are no longer silent. Our struggle continues but our hope will not fade.’ Maryam Zahid, Director of Afghan Women on the Move says ‘I can feel and empathize with all the women involved in this project. I have lived through similar experiences and events as they have, and I think it’s amazing that they now have the opportunities to speak up and tell their stories on camera.’

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Community News | Sydney

My Life, My Story is supported by Afghan Women on the Move (AWOTM) – a global platform uniting women in the Afghan diaspora to share their life stories through creative arts and storytelling, breaking cycles of isolation and disadvantage. The exhibition runs from 3 – 26 February, with a Panel Discussion and Afghan tea-making, conversations and tours. All free to attend.

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Community News | Sydney

From prison cells to Sikh gurdwara: how officer uses faith to help others

rison officer Gurpreet Singh believes in the power of faith and second chances – an outlook that has served him well during the almost 30 years he has spent helping inmates, his peers and Sydney’s Sikh community.

giving back to the community through their work. As a Sikh, Gurpreet practises ‘sewa’ – the act of selfless service – which means working or giving back to the community without any thought of reward or personal gain.

Gurpreet is a classification officer at Newington House at the Silverwater Correctional Complex, deciding where inmates are placed and where they have the best chance at turning their lives around. “It is a long journey for inmates – we do a risk assessment, build a case plan and try to keep them at the lowest level of classification so they can get into the right programs,” the deputy superintendent says. “Classification and placement is very important – if you move an inmate from one location to another and they don’t have a program, they’re just going to sit down and do nothing, which might encourage them to do the wrong thing again.” Gurpreet has spent 27 years with Corrective Services NSW, working as a staff trainer, case manager in various rehabilitation programs including sex offender programs, and now classification. Download Our App

“Whether it’s fundraising, serving food at a gurdwara (a Sikh place of worship), cleaning kitchen utensils or sharing earnings with the needy – it’s all about cultivating altruism, or sewa, and helping the wider community,” Gurpreet says.

“Programs that help with aggression, or drugs and alcohol, play a very important role – it means when inmates leave prison, they can get work and deal with psychological issues which reduces reoffending behaviour,” he says. “I have dealt with difficult cases and highprofile offenders – sometimes it is very hard to get those people back into society but it builds your skills so you can help others.” Gurpreet is among 10,000 CSNSW staff celebrated on National Corrections Day, Friday 21 January, for their commitment to FEBRUARY I 2022

“You learn from your parents and then you teach your kids – we teach the next generation to be selfless, to help others and encourage those positive principles.” The 2022 National Corrections Day theme is Giving Back, focusing on how our staff go beyond the call of duty to protect the community, mentor staff, fundraise for important charities and contribute to vital community projects and partnerships. CSNSW includes about 5,000 custodial officers, 1,800 Community Corrections staff, 800 industries workers, 900 psychologists and programs officers and 1,100 Security and Intelligence staff. www.DesiAustralia.com

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Community News | Sydney

Celebration of Indian Republic Consulate General Office (Sydne

3rd Indian Republic Day was celebrated at the Consulate General Office (Sydney). This year the celebration was special as India is celebrating 75 years of Independence. Mr Ramanand Garge director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center, Consulate General of India,. welcomed everyone who was joining virtually live from across Australia and from India. Mr Manish Gupta and his wife Mrs Manisha Gupta performed the flag hoisting ceremony followed by the Indian National Anthem. Cultural performances were presented by Hindi Choir group who sang patriotic songs, Kathak Performance by Miss Sakshi Kumar and vibrant folk dance Bhanagra was performed by Rhythm of Bhangra group.

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Community News | Sydney

Day at the ey) India @75

India in 1947 - In 1947, India was a country with a large impoverished population, fledgling industries and suffering from food shortages. The biggest challenges then were that of national integration and nation-building. India in 2022 - India of 2022 is a

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country with the third largest economy in PPP terms. It has a global outlook and global aspirations. It is a resurgent India. Lest we forget, for nearly two millennia, India was one of the largest economies in the world. At the end of the 17th century, its share was actually a quarter of the world economy. The India of 2022 is an Atma Nirbhar Bharat or Self Reliant India. This is not protectionism; it signifies an India which seeks to participate in global supply chains from a position of strength.

are in the pipeline. Around 500 million vaccines have been administered in India. Through its Vaccine Maitri (or Friendship) outreach, India has donated and supplied 66 million vaccines to countries across the world. Since the pandemic, India has also supplied essential medicines to over 150 countries.

India is a major vaccine producer. India produces two Covid-19 vaccines – the Covishield (AstraZeneca) and the indigenously developed Covaxin. More

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Community News | Adelaide

AUSTRALIA DAY 2022- ADELAIDE A day full of activities reflecting, respect and celebrating our diverse heritage

By: Daljeet Bakshi

he official Australia Day program 2022 , assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council and supported by the Government of South Australia, Department of the Premier and Cabinet and presented in partnership with the City of Adelaide.

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On this special day, the city of events Adelaide, South Australia witnessed full on activities throughout the day. SA community came together to join First Nations people as a sign of respect and to honour their cultures and elders. Australia Day is the perfect opportunity to reflect, respect and celebrate our diverse heritage. On this morning of 26th Jan 2022 , South Australians observed the moving Smoking Ceremony (Mourning in the Morning) in Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama. This event was hosted by senior Kaurna leaders on Kaurna land in the customs of the First Nations peoples, the burning of native plants producing a

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Community News | Adelaide

cleansing of smoke for healing and acknowledgment on this day ,acknowledging the past, and present First Nations

People and reflecting on their relationship to Country, waters, and seas. The Smoking Ceremony was presented in partnership with the City of Adelaide, SA Power Networks & Sarah Constructions Pty Ltd , Assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council,& supported by the Government of South Australia, Department of Premier and Cabinet. On this occasion South Australians were joined by these distinguished guests, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC Governor of South Australia , The Hon Steven Marshall MP Premier of South Australia , The opposition ( Labor ) leader Hon Peter Malinauskas MP , Australia Day Council of SA CEO Jan Chorley , chairwomen of South Australia Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs Commission Adriana Christopolous . Aus Day in Rundle Mall ( city hub ) was presented in partnership with the the City of Adelaide and Villis Bakery, assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council, and supported by the Government of South Australia, Department of the Premier and Cabinet. Fun filled activities, multicultural dance performances and traditional ceremony . Aus Lights on the River. It was a stunning immersion of light, sound and vision as part of the Australia Day 2022 program. Community really enjoyed this light and sound show and we were able get to stroll through the park and watch the story of the river projected onto a giant water screen, jump into a virtual aquarium with Download Our App

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Community News | Adelaide

by Australia Day Council SA sponsored by Government of South Australia with the support by many businesses and volunteers. Many multicultural groups were part of the AusDay Parade. Everyone was so enthusiastic and looked fabulous. This year the format was completely different from previous years due to COVID restrictions . Citizenship Ceremonies in various Councils of Adelaide. Australia Day is an important day for new citizens as this day they officially get the citizenship oath and certificates . The city of West Torrens: The Hon Steve Georganas MP (federal member for Adelaide), The Lord Mayor Michael whales and stingrays, see the stories of South Australians projected onto the Adelaide Festival Centre and explore the 9m high AirLume. The Hon Assistant Minister to the Premier Jing Lee MLC joined The Hon Her Excellency Governor of South Australia, The Hon Premier Steven Marshall MP and Minister The Hon. Rachel Sanderson and ADCSA CEO, Chair/board members along with Chair and many members of the SA Multicultural Commission at this incredible event. Aus Lights on the River, assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council and supported by the Government of South Australia and strategic partner City of Adelaide. Australia Day in the Arena, presented

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Community News | Adelaide

Coxon . The City of Port Adelaide: Deputy Mayor Hannah Evans,The Hon Dana Wortley MP , representing the leader of the opposition. The city of Salisbury : The Lord Mayor Gillian Aldridge, Deputy Mayor Chad Buchanan JP, The shadow Minister for multicultural affairs Zoe Bettinson. Adelaide Pakistani Women Association, Australia Day Multicultural Celebration. Ayesha Fariha Safdar, Chairperson of Adelaide Pakistani Women Association

welcomed the guests and attendees in the event. APWA organised Australia Day event for the first time. A colorful and entertaining program of Music. Dance, Afghan fashion show and Pakistani food were the attractions. The Hon Assistant Minister to the Premier Jing Lee was joined by her parliamentary colleagues Hon. Nicola Centofanti MLC Hon. Heidi Girolamo MLC Liberal Candidate Laura Curran and also SA Multicultural Commission member Anna Cheung Pakistani Australian Association of South Australia, organised a Fun filled day showcasing the beauty and treas-

ures of multicultural South Australia through wonderful music, dance, fashion, food . Smoke ceremony, exquisite Kaurna cultural performances, dance performances and Sufi singing concert by renowned Sufi Singer Farhan Shah were well enjoyed by the attendees. The Hon Jing Lee MLC Assistant Minister to the Premier, Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs The Hon Zoe Bettinson MP , The Hon Jayne Stinson MP ( Badcoe ) were present on this occasion . Mr. Naseem Khokhar, President, PAASA, Mr. Amir Salim, Vice President, PAASA,, Ms. Shazia S. Choudhry, Australia Day Ambassador and Event MC welcomed and extended warm welcome and thanks to the distinguished guest , performers and the attendees . Shruthi Adelaide Australia Day & Indian Republic Day celebrations. A successful event celebrating cultural diversity, an intercultural event that combined Indian style, the Australian way. Mr Narayana Rai, President and of Shruthi Adelaide extended his warm welcome to the guets and attendees. The Hon Jing Lee MLC represented the Premier of South Australia to convey best wishes from the Government of South Australia on this special occasion marking not only Australia Day but also the Indian Republic Day. The event witnessed showcase of Indian traditional performances along with Indigenous art work and painting display exquisite Indian dance performances and free Indian style Barbeque in Australian way for the attendees.

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Technology

BRANDING - ONLINE PRESENCE

By: Sarang Vengurlekar

e have all heard about branding. It is a very common term used within business. There are many brand names out there in all types of business categories and few examples are such as Louis Vuitton, Guess, Ford, Jaguar, Westfields etc. When you think about a brand, and you are curious about their product range you would instantly go on to Google and search them up. Google will then point you to their website, which you would then click on to check out their product range. Let’s take Jaguar as an example. The site you visit such as http://www.jaguar.com will show the entire range of their vehicles. This site is normally known as website or webpage.

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The Jaguar website requires a name to be registered under their business so the website can be made to the public and this name is called a Domain Name. If you are a business, then it is very important for you to get your own branding started out with a domain name. You are then able to start your journey to our digital world of marketing as there are many options available for your business to be displayed easily via the website to the entire world to anyone from their personal PC. One more aspect to this would be your email address. Your email address will also need to be personalised using the domain name that you have purchased earlier. In this instance your email address could simply be John.Smith@jaguar.com and so on. This era of digital branding started just over two decades ago but we are now offering more and more with the use of a website. It is possible to have a very small and simple website opposed to a website that has video introduction, streaming media etc. The model depends on the type of business you have and the product range that you will be offering.

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To assist with getting a domain name registered you can go to any domain name registrars and one of the largest one right now are GoDaddy. They will also offer you a business email address along with a domain name. The email address will be based on Microsoft 365 which will mean you will have your email address and the whole office package such as Word, Excel, Outlook be included along with it. These brand names do not just apply to businesses, and you can start your personal branding the same way as business branding. Although personal branding does not just include a domain name and email address, but it has to do with what you offer as an individual. We will leave the topic of personal branding for next time, but I just wanted to mention the process is rather similar. Let’s look at how to search and register a domain name. To start your journey go to https://www.godaddy.com and then do a search for a desired name. As an example I used the domain name “iwantmydomainname”. It has now shown me two choices which I can register. The first one is my “.com.au” address which is specific to Auswww.DesiAustralia.com

Technology

Picture Coutesy: Digitalinstalls.com.au

tralia and the secondary is the “.com” address which is valid world-wide. My general rule of thumb is to register both as this also allows you to expand internationally if and when your business expands. Once you have these options then simply add to cart and continue to checkout where you will be asked for your credit cards details. Once you have paid the charges the domain name belongs to you. You will then have to keep on renewing it every year to keep your name. It is a very simple process and surely you can call them on the number given above on the website if you are run-

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ning in to any issues. Let’s look a bit at the offerings from Microsoft 365 package as mentioned earlier. There are various plans that are available, and these can be subscribed to during the registration of the domain name. As seen from Microsoft 365 slide it shows what you get with each plan. You may choose the package that best suits your requirements and remember it should provide the best value for the money you will be spending. This whole process of registering a domain name and signing up with a Microsoft 365

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package may take about 30 minutes of your time but this is the start of your online journey for your business. It is then up to you on how you market your business. There are many marketing freelance professionals that you could hire to move with a strategy. Well, I guess the whole purpose of this article was to show you how simple the process is to establish an online presence and I hope this has helped you in many ways. If you like this article then please do not forget to send me any feedback on sarang@vengurlekar.com

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Mag Corner

Living with the new ‘ING’s - 2022

By Poonam Naik

oping, Surviving, Living, Adapting and finally Thriving – are my favourite ‘ING’s to describe how we all have been witnessing the new world order since 2020 when COVID situation changed our essence of old ways of seeing the new world and its ways. Nothing has been the same and yet we have continued to cope, survive, live, adapt and thrive – we have evolved over the last 2 years. Life happens and the continuity of living has been an essence and the biggest takeaway. First, there were snap lockdowns and restrictions – the new norm is to get all the vaccinations including the booster dose. 14 days of isolation has been conveniently narrowed down to 7 days and then continue to watch for symptoms, get PCR tested only after Rapid Antigen tests are done at your retail price of 15$ and up. Continue to maintain social distancing, wear masks, scan QR codes and test if you experience symptoms. What did you do to live in the circle of ‘ING’s? The less social gatherings meant each of us had the time to pause, stop and spend time towards the inward journey and many have enjoyed a new sense of awakening and discovery. Some spent more time with the natural outdoors – hiking or walking or simply others have done kayaking in quaint waterways of this beautiful sun kissed country. Some others have enjoyed either the more of the home cooked food or the menulog and uber delivered meal delivery services. Some have had the joys of relinquishing unimportant tasks to pile up and others have taken it as a time to organize things around the house, home office and the likes. Whilst some missed Download Our App

social gatherings, partying, and going out on the weekends, the other quaint introverted souls have made the most of these times enjoying the seclusion and more of the time to themselves. Time was of the biggest treasure – either some had roles and responsibilities doubled or others had none to take. Some appreciated flexi work arrangements and others had to just go to work in essential services.

be won and no audience to either cheer or motivate. You were your biggest cheerleader and the greatest award we gave ourselves was that of a life. On a more continuous note, a Happy New Year to all our desi readers!!!

Some friends could not test the tides of the times whilst other made new, fresh, and adventurous ones. ScoMo too found a friend and another international mate in NaMo. There was beyond butter chicken and Namaste out there. Those pictures were one of my favourite ones. The latest one in which ScoMo is doing the Kerela fish curry is one of my favourite ones in the political mateship. Whatever has been your game changer the past 2 years means you were a survivor and a winner in each and every way without any competitors and awards to FEBRUARY I 2022

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Community News | Sydney

Rekha Rajvanshi Receives UP Hindi Sansthan’s ‘Hindi Videsh Prasar Samman’

n the 10th of January, we commemorated World Hindi Day. Various Hindi activities and events were held all around the world, including Australia, to mark the day. When it comes to Hindi in Australia, a few names come to mind. Rekha Rajvanshi, an Australian Hindi writer and poet, is one among them. Rekha was awarded ‘Hindi Videsh Prasaar Samman’ by the Uttar Pradesh Hindi Sansthan Lucknow for promoting Hindi in Australia on November 28th, 2021. The award carries an added cash prize incentive worth Rs. 250,000. A teacher by profession, Rekha moved to Australia twenty years ago and started teaching Hindi in a community school after about a month of her arrival in Sydney. She is passionate about Hindi. She taught Hindi to Australian adults at the Centre for Continuing Education, University of Sydney, and to children at the Saturday School of Community Languages and Indo-Aust Bal Bharthi Hindi School. Rekha has published eight books, edited three books by Australian writers and co-edited one poetry book. She is also an award-winning NAATI accredited English to Hindi translator, who received an Excellence in Translation award for translating Aboriginal dreamtime stories in 2014. Rekha’s extensive work includes poetry (blank verse, geet, ghazal, and nazmas), stories, articles, children’s poetry, and translations. Lucknow Doordarshan anchor interviewed Rekha after the award and said that she’s amazed at how a poet can write in so many genres so well. Rekha’s poems touch people’s hearts and take them on a rollercoaster of emotions. Rekha’s works — poetry and stories are also included in

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the Hindi curriculum of Indian universities.

where Hindi, Punjabi, and Tamil are also taught along with many other languages.

Rekha founded the Indian Literary and Art Society of Australia, ILASA Inc (Bhartiya Sahituya aur Kala Sanstha, Australia) in 2010 and has organised programmes to promote Hindi in Australia, such as: Kavi Sammelans, Poetry Competitions, Hindi Dramas, and a conference to promote Hindi literature in Australia. She has been a pioneer in organising Hindi Diwas in Australia.

If we want our younger generation to learn about India’s rich heritage, cultural values, and traditions, we need to teach them our language. Our literature is also very rich, and when we read a book from a different country and culture, we learn about its people, rituals and discover many similarities and differences. Literature helps build a bridge.”

When asked how she felt after receiving this award, Rekha replied “I am passionate about Hindi and I think we writers don’t work for an award. We just follow our passion, and if our work is recognized, it encourages us. Australia is a multicultural country,

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Rekha worked hard to bring together all the Hindi writers, poets, and Hindi lovers of Australia on one platform and connected them with writers from all over the world. Rekha is the true ambassador of Hindi literature in Australia.

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Movie Review

It is not easy but it is not impossible either

Writer- Poornima Menon

watched the movie ‘Chandigarh kare Aashiqui’ which is definitely a conversation starter. It is heartening to see filmmakers and directors coming forward to work on such controversial and taboo topics. For a society that has always identified gender with the sex of an individual, this is a difficult meal to digest. And no one, absolutely no one can know what it feels like until the person is in that situation. As a teacher I have seen 3 of my students, 2 girls and a boy, struggling with the gender identity crisis. While one of them was bold enough to run away from home when she ( now a he) was 16 and seek the help of NGOs who helped, I saw the lives of the other 2 disintegrating due to lack of support from parents and other family members. When I moved into the corporate world, I have seen one of our employees transition. She (then a he) had very supportive friends and colleagues. There were many adjustments that had to made in the workplace from the use of toilets and change rooms to sometimes having the difficult conversation with her about some work related issues. But it was all handled very gently. As she moved into the last phase of her transition she decided to take time off from work as she needed more time to herself. When the transition was complete, she shared her latest photos with her colleagues. That was the level of comfort she enjoyed. Download Our App

This movie has been well made and the subject handled with great finesse. There are indications from the very beginning that this female protagonist is different – the pills, the laser treatment, the awkwardness around the transgenders on the street, etc. The reaction of her boyfriend and his family also very natural in the given circumstances – these are topics that are generally avoided and there is very little information out there about them. The final reconciliation and Manu winning the competition by lifting weights he has never lifted before is quite symbolic. FEBRUARY I 2022

There are some great takeaways from this movie. The first is the message of acceptance of individuals of all kinds. It is not easy but it is not impossible either. And the second is that education and awareness is the key. When we make informed and educated decisions, we often make the right ones. And third is to listen to the heart. If the connections are built there, then nothing else matters. The stars have played their parts well and so have the supporting cast. I would recommend this movie. www.DesiAustralia.com

24th& 25th March, 8pm – Lennox, Riverside Theatres

Tickets now available riversideparramatta.com.au/show/zindegi-50-50/

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Receipe

Green Smoothie

rom smoothie challenges (it’s definitely challenging) to just as a meal replacement (best way to start)... this smoothie will serve you well. Let’s break down exactly what you need to make this simple and ready to go, in less than 5 minutes green smoothie: In a blender add a handful of spinach (upgrade to kale once you are confident), 1 pitted date, 1 green apple and 1.5 cup of coconut water. Blend blend blend and there you have it!!! I like to top mine with chia seeds/flax seeds for a little crunch (you can blend it as well) You are welcome! Don’t forget to let us know how you all went.

Regards, Wat do you Meal Team Follow us on Facebook, Instagram

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Mag Corner

Some insights from the successful students from HSC 2021: A guide for HSC 2022

By: Preeti Gupta

ow that the dust has settled on the HSC 2021 results, we spoke to students from a cross section of schools in NSW and how they felt they had fared. HSC is the first major examination on their journey towards being employable, it is usually a stressful year but it was made worse for this Cohort as they were impacted by the COVID the moment they stepped into their Stage 6 studies. One has to acknowledge that the results reflect the resilience of this cohort. Well, they are most pleased as they have achieved what they wanted and have found a place in the course of their choice. It is interesting how all of them echo each other in the way they navigated their HSC year and there is some very tried and tested tips being shared here:

What are your thoughts and emotions in the post HSC result context? Mostly a sense of relief that it’s all over, and I managed to get through it. While I am obviously ecstatic with the result, I think I am most proud of the effort I put in to maintain my non-academic endeavours, e.g. sport and co-curricular activities like debating, while still engaging in studies. Taking the next steps into University comes with a lot of uncertainty, but after this past year, I think I can handle it. Do you think the strategies you used to prep for your HSC have paid off? How so? After my school’s trial exams in August and the announcement of the HSC moving to November, I knew that the biggest challenge I would have is maintaining the motivation to study. Trying to vary what I would study each week helped me, and though it was hard in lockdown, group study with mates on Zoom meant we could support each other and peer-mark answers. In the end, it helped me avoid being “burnt out” when exams came. I also tried to simulate the HSC exam as closely as I could with each practice paper, e.g. using the same kind of pen, using the HSC-style writing booklets and taking the time to check over them in detail, rather than trying to get through as many papers as possible.

Dhruv Hariharan, Knox Grammar (99.95 ATAR)

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Any advice for the HSC Cohort of 2022? It’s easy to get caught up in the everyday chaos of Year 12, so never lose sight of what you want to

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achieve. Take the time to stop and ask yourself why you are doing what you are. Also, do not give up the things you enjoy while in your final year, like sports etc. This year will be a test of how long you can remain motivated, and taking some time away from studies to relax with cocurricular activities will rejuvenate your mind and keep you focussed. For those doing sciences and looking for a Band 6, I would recommend planning your answers worth 4+ marks before writing them in exams. Gaining clarity over how you approach answers means you can better exclude irrelevant information, saving time and making your answer easier to mark. Though it could differ between languages, for German I found it helpful to focus the 10 minutes reading time on the Reading section, which saves time having to translate later on.

Rohan Gandhi, Newington College (IB Course achieved 99.95 ATAR) What are your thoughts and emotions in the post HSC result context? There is certainly a turbulence of emotions that I am gripped by when

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Mag Corner

reflecting on my Year 12 results. First and foremost, I am met with a welcome sense of relief - perhaps exclusively to our cohort alone, we are ‘free’ not only from our senior schooling studies, but also from the state-wide lockdown that impacted our Year 12 journey. Whilst we are still affected by the pandemic, I am relishing the opportunity to catch up with friends and go out with the family. Just as importantly, I am also extremely proud of both my results, and that of my peers. My result was worth more than the ATAR - it was a reflection of my ability to find it within myself to persist and find motivation in the most trying and unprecedented circumstances. For that, I could not be happier. However, a sense of sadness still certainly remains. Upon reflection, the opening of my results marked a special milestone: the transition to university. Whilst exciting, this also therefore marked the true farewell of my high schooling journey, one that I dearly miss and would love to relive. I continue to be overcome by an acute sense of nostalgia for my experiences in the classrooms, sporting fields, music ensembles and debate rooms. Do you think the strategies you used to prep for your HSC have paid off? How so? The main strategy I employed in preparation for my final exams was to stay connected. This involved collaborative study over Zoom, or even just regular Facetimes. Whilst this seems to be an absurd strategy to use before exams, it was only through these virtual interactions with my friends that I managed to keep perspective during my final year. These conversations were also inherently motivating - I found that the synergy within these group environments, where we talked about our optimal study techniques and sought advice

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on our recurring mistakes, was a strong force that inspired us all to work harder and more effectively.

your normal lifestyle in order to work more productively.

Maintaining some sort of an exercise routine as my exam period approached was also crucial. My ‘lockdown runs’ were almost a form of therapy, as they decluttered the swirling and sifting thoughts in my head. Although I would return home slightly fatigued, I would also possess a clear presence of mind, which was crucial for my study sessions. Any advice for the HSC Cohort of 2022? Year 12 is built around one word: motivation. You must try and find a ‘why’ in Year 12 - something, someone, or some idea that drives you to be relentless in your academic pursuit. Just as importantly, stay motivated by remaining connected to your close circle, and by allowing yourself to remain involved in some of your hobbies and co-curricular activities. Without experiencing the happiness that arises from your hobbies, Year 12 can very quickly become a dark, difficult, and treacherous journey. Nonetheless, you must remember to hold yourself accountable. Set incremental study goals - on a daily, weekly or monthly basis - and ensure that they are achievable yet ambitious. These goals should give you a sense of direction - they prevent the aimless study that eventually leads to procrastination - but they should also impose upon you a sense of responsibility that many often don’t feel in Year 12. Just as you will be responsible for your ATAR, you are also responsible for all the small steps and study sessions that take place along Year 12. With this responsibility comes compromise - understand that whilst you must provide yourself with avenues of self-care, you must also sacrifice certain elements of

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Shiv Suresh, Knox Grammar What are your thoughts and emotions in the post HSC result context? After experiencing 2 years of restrictions, lockdowns, and isolation, the main emotions for me and my peers in my cohort have been relief and gratitude. After going through some difficult experiences over the last few years, it makes me very glad to say that we successfully completed our HSC and as a cohort, and satisfied our goal of building a brotherhood within our school and other schools in our area. Hence, I am relieved that we made it through. While the journey was difficult, undertaking co-curricular activities, and being able to build such a close connection with my friends in my school equally with peers from other schools makes me incredibly grateful for the entire experience, despite the covid restrictions.

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Mag Corner

Do you think the strategies you used to prep for your HSC have paid off? How so? Absolutely! Even though I secured an early entry before I sat trials and final exams, the strategies and dedication I had was incredibly beneficial to my results. One of the key techniques I used was studying with friends. While at first it may be distracting, being able to challenge each other to solve problems in new ways taught me new exams techniques, which assisted me in solving questions in my final exams. Because of studying with friends, I was able to both solve problems in exams and maintain my mental health throughout exam; a very important factor considering the loss of connection over the past two years. Any advice for the HSC Cohort of 2022? The main advice I would suggest to the 2022 cohort is to enjoy the experience of year 12. Everyone has bad results occasionally and that is completely okay. It did not stop me from getting into my course of choice and it likely will not severely affect the

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course you are offered. Everyone is in the same situation and your friends are always there to support you, whether that be while studying or with mental health. Furthermore, I would absolutely suggest applying for early entry. Even if you don’t get into the course you’re hoping for, getting an offer before trials or before your hsc is a significant morale boost, and will assist your motivation to study for your next exams.

Dev Yadav, Parramatta High What are your thoughts and emotions in the post HSC result context? My thoughts and emotions in the post HSC result context are bittersweet as I am glad it’s all over but I also miss

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school a little bit. In terms of results, I am happy with my marks and feel a sense of satisfaction as I approach a new chapter of my life. I have secured a spot in the course and University of my choice. Overall, I am keen for uni and feel like high school was a wrap but really think about how much I am going to miss school in both, the short run and long run. Do you think the strategies you used to prep for your HSC have paid off? How so? I feel like the strategies I used to prepare for the HSC paid off as I was very confident in my study methods and I held a powerful attitude throughout the preparation and HSC period. I used effective revision and memorising methods to learn all my content and did heaps of practice questions and papers to mock the HSC examination’s setup. I also studied with friends who would not distract me as having a study buddy helped me stay engaged while preparing. Any advice for the HSC Cohort of 2022? All I would say to the Class of 2022 is that study hard for the HSC but do not overwork yourself. Make sure to have fun and enjoy your last year of high school as it goes by quickly and you will not even realise where the time went. Stay focused, set good study habits and make sure to enforce balance in your everyday life and activities.

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Mag Corner

Esha Tewana from MacArthur Girls High, What are your thoughts + emotions in the post HSC result context? Post HSC, I feel much more relieved but reflecting on the roller coaster of a journey it has been, the HSC has been an emotional journey which has been about so much more than just attaining an ATAR, but rather has shaped my interests and provided a direction for future studies and employment plans. It was a tough two years, but everyone in the HSC 2021 cohort persevered and should all be happy and proud of themselves regardless of the mark they achieved Do you think the strategies you used to prep for your HSC have paid off? How so? The strategies that I used to prepare for the HSC have most certainly paid off, however

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I believe that the best thing you can do to prepare is to enjoy whatever it is that you’re studying. Concentration and utmost attention to what you’re trying to study or memorise is key and if you’re not going to enjoy what you’re studying, you’re unlikely to concentrate on the work. So, strategically, it is important that you enjoy what you study and pick subjects that you’re truly passionate about - not because someone else tells you to pick them. Personally, I really enjoyed all the subjects I studied in my HSC and primarily I looked forward to every class I had which definitely helped me to persevere and focus on studying despite the turbulence caused by COVID19 changing our day to day lives. Any advice for the HSC Cohort of 2022? The main piece of advice I would give to the HSC cohort of 2022 would be to keep focusing on their goals and study aims since we live in a world of uncertainty, however with more stability *fingers crossed* promised in the future. You might not be able to control the impact COVID19 is having on face to face schooling or the way it may have changed your Year 11 studies; but if you set your mind to studying and do all and whatever you can do on your end, give it your best shot, then there is no reason to be disappointed

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with what you achieve! Besides our 2021 group serves as an example of perseverance throughout the HSC, if we can make it, then 2022 most certainly can!

KHUSH PERSHAD, Ryde Secondary College (98.60 ATAR) What are your thoughts and emotions in the post HSC result context? Relieved that the HSC is finally over. Nervous and excited for the start of Uni. I did a lot better than I expected to, so i’m very happy about my results. Do you think the strategies you used to prep for your HSC have paid off? How so? Studying a lot seems to pay off. I didn’t really do that until just before the HSC exam period, at which point I did as many past exam papers as I could find. Doing them under exam conditions gave me the experience I needed to perform well during the actual tests Any advice for the HSC Cohort of 2022? Study, pace yourself, and be ready to experience some sort of burnout during the year. Burnout is ok, it just takes time to get back into it.

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Know your Councillors from South Asian Background 22 Councillors of Indian Sub continent origin elected across NSW Council elections for NSW were held on 4th Dec 21 where voters elected representatives to councils across NSW. Each council is made up of between five and 15 councillors with the Lord Mayor and Deputy Lord Mayor elected by the Councillors. Here are the 22 councillors of Indian sub continent elected in NSW this year campaigned for several reforms and initiatives in areas of Health, Safety, Heritage, Environment, Local Businesses, Open spaces, Accessibility and inclusiveness, Smart City, Promoting Multiculturalism, and improving Social and Transport Infrastructure among others.

Dy Lord Mayor Clr Sameer Pandey City of Parramatta Council (ALP) I would like to thank everyone for your love and support over the past 4 years. Since being elected in 2017, I have

Recently, I have been elected the Deputy Lord Mayor for City of Parramatta. I am very humbled to be the first person from the Indian subcontinent to be elected Deputy Lord Mayor of a Major city in Australia. It is an exciting time for the City of Parramatta. A period of dramatic change and transformation.There are several challenges that we face today and they are real. There is work to be done and action to be taken to build a future that has opportunity for eve-

Dy Mayor Clr Barbara Ward Ku-ring-gai council (LIB) Deputy Mayor Ward was born In Fiji and is proud of her Indian heritage but is quick to remind us “I am Fijian”. Her Fiji style is tranquil, friendly smile and mannerism is quite disarming. When I referred to her as Deputy Mayor she smiled and said “always Barbara to you, I never let a position define me”. My vision is at a macro level and I want to make a positive impact, Ku- ring gai a metropolis with growth, vibrancy, green space and community that will lend itself to business and tourism and my hope is to

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ryone in Parramatta, to build a future where social, cultural and transport infrastructures are adequate for our community, where our elders live a dignified retirement, where our children’s have access to affordable childcare, where our youths have opportunities for education and local employment, where all individuals & families prosper, where businesses thrive, where our heritage is protected, where community organizations are nurtured and supported, where we provide opportunities for sports, physical and mental well-being for everyone, where interests of the most vulnerable in our community are prioritized, where the government serves not rules. My vision, with your support, is to build on work done so far and to make the City of Parramatta a safer, healthier, liveable, smart, sustainable, progressive & inclusive city.

achieve these with my fellow Councillors. Our environment is our treasure with amazing parks, bushland, wildlife and heritage that we must enhance and promote but also be cognizant that for us to be viable and sustainable that will serve well for future generations we need sensible and responsible growth said Barbara. Deputy Mayor Ward has always been community minded a philanthropist and voluntarily works tirelessly for many charities, Not for Profit and individuals. It is no surprise that she is looking forward to building on what Ku ring Gai has and is aiming to continue to grow the diverse and successful community

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I am a certified Social Worker/Change Manager for over 21 years now and currently work as Senior Change Analyst & Programs Officer at the Department of Communities & Justice. My wife Bhagya is also a registered Social Worker manage a non-profit organisation in the Blacktown region and provide Therapeutic Counselling, Domestic Violence support and JP services.

Clr Livingston Chettipally City of Blacktown Council (LIB)

Clr Raj Datta Strathfield Council (ALP) I led the Labor team for the Strathfield Council election in 2012 and served as a councillor for 2012-2017. I was preselected to lead the Labor team for the Strathfield Council Election in 2017 but for personal reasons I did not run in 2017 .I have been elected as a councillor in Strathfield Council for 2021-24 in 2021 Council election.

I have a experience working as a Community Development Officer at Cumberland (Auburn) Council and have served as Execu-

As a community worker: 4I established the Deepavali Festival Committee of NSW (DFC) 4 Leading the DFC I initiated celebration of Deepavali in the Parliament House of NSW in 2003, with exterior illumination of the Parliament House. It was the first ever illumination of the exterior of a Parliament House in Australia or in the world for celebration of Deepavali. This annual celebration by the DFC continued untills 2011. Acknowledging its popularity, in 2011 the Government of NSW took it over from the DFC for celebration by the government of NSW 4 In 2007 , leading the DFC I installed a plaque in the roof garden of the Parliament of NSW. In 2011 leading the DFC I initiated Premier’s Award for people of multicultural backgrounds in NSW in acknowledgement of extra-ordinary

I was born and raised in Bangladesh, before moving to Australia in 2009. After spending time in Sydney, we came to Dubbo, and my wife Urmi and I have established our lives here with our three children. I work in financial services and spend a lot of time involved in the community through roles with Clean Up Australia Day, Dubbo Health Council, Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie, and the Dubbo Multicultural Groups.

Clr Shibli Chowdhury Dubbo Regional Council (NPA) Download Our App

I believe a council should reflect its community, and Dubbo is home to a growing number of people from a multicultural background. I hope I can be a voice for people whose stories are the same as mine and are assimilating into this community. And also council need more new faces and FEBRUARY I 2022

tive Officer at CRN a sub-regional peak body in Blacktown, as part of the role I had chaired Blacktown combined Interagency, Interagency Convenors and was part of the Blacktown Council Multicultural Advisory & CDSE club grants committee. I will be a strong voice for our local multicultural community; will support local families by initiating better Council services, Parks and Community Centres. I will support local businesses, advocate for Community Safety, Wellbeing and Stop Violence.

contributions of migrant communities. Some of the matters that I and the Labor team plan to deliver are: 4 Honestly representing the community in the council 4Building community 4Better planning and less congestion 4 Improving public and community spaces 4 Protecting all parks and greenspaces in Strathfield LGA 4 Placing stronger focus on public safety and building a safer community 4 Establishing openness and accountability 4 Establishing better local services and facilities 4I mproving communication between council & residents on all matters of interest to communities

diversity. I want to see a bridge built to the south of the LH Ford Bridge to deal with some of the issues that are arising because of Dubbo’s growth. I also think council needs to play a role in helping with the housing situation that has resulted in low supply and heavily inflated prices for sales and rentals.

I believe I can bring a fresh face, a fresh perspective, and fresh ideas to Dubbo Regional Council. The issues that matter to a lot of the people of Dubbo, Wellington are the same as the issues that matter to me and it provides an opportunity to be a representative for a good cross-section of the community, from farmers right through to young families and singles looking to crack into the housing market. www.DesiAustralia.com

Cover Story gration agent, Councillor Benjamin was first elected to Blacktown City Council in 2012. Councillor Benjamin is Honorary Director of a free community legal service, Toongabbie Legal Centre Inc. and the outreach legal service Blacktown Legal Centre. He is also a director of the Australian Multicultural Forum Ltd and has held numerous positions in many community and government organisations. Clr Susai Benjamin City of Blacktown Council (ALP) A solicitor and barrister as well as a mi-

Clr Sazeda Akhter-City of Canterbury Bankstown (LIB) My name is Sazeda Akter, a Bangladeshi Immigrant who began her journey in Aus-

Clr Masood Chowdhury Campbelltown City Council (ALP) I came to Australia as a migrant in

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Admitted as a legal practitioner by the NSW Supreme Court in August 2003, Councillor Benjamin has degrees in law as well as a Bachelor of Science

and a Post Graduate Diploma in Social Work (equivalent to MA Social Work). Previously, Councillor Benjamin studied community development in the United Kingdom and was Director of a not-forprofit community development organisation in India. Former Member of the Australian Multicultural Advisory Committee constituted by the Federal Government and served as one of the people of Ambassadors. Mr Benjamin served as the Board member and later President of the Multicultural Arts Alliance of NSW. A passionate advocate for public open space and parks.

tralia in 2012 and am currently a councillor for the City of Canterbury-Bankstown. I am a working woman and a mother of two beautiful children and I cherish both the roles close to my heart as both these roles are extremely important to bring about a positive impact in my position as councillor and as a mother. During these years, I have strived to bring about a positive impact by working with a number of reputed associations such as Women Council Australia Inc of which I am currently the president. This association has been working actively for supporting women empowerment, a cause that I strongly believe in. I am also a General Secretary of Fagun Hawa Inc an association organizing various social events. Being the vice president of Bangladesh

Australia Fashion Association gives me an opportunity to assist various local boutique associations working from home to have a strong platform to show their work. Other associations that I am involved with are Australian Bangladeshi Business Council and executive member of United Bangladeshi Association of Australia. As a Councilor and an Australian citizen, I actively work and aim to give this country as much as this country has given us. This involves doing as much as I can through my modest means for women empowerment and a safer environment for our children in Australia. This involves working actively for stronger involvement of women in politics and society.

1989, and actively participated in a diverse range of community work, such as being the active member of Multicultural Society of Campbelltown, ambassador of White Ribbon strong activist of Driving out Violence Convoy, Ex. President and school council member at The Grange Public School, registered Support Person of NSW Police, Ex. President of Campbelltown Bangla School, and a foundation member of the Bangladesh Australian Welfare Society.

and now my second term and re-elected as Councillor 2021. I am happily married to Zeenat for twenty-four years and have three children, and they have born and resided locally for 23 years in MINTO. I was one of the organizers of Subcontinent New Year festival call BOISHAKHI at Campbelltown Stadium and also fundraised for the Cancer Council, NSW, and Victoria Bushfires for the past nine years. As Councillor in the Campbelltown City Council, I interact with other ethnic communities, sectoral and civic groups and the mainstream Australian community . My noble intention is for all the local Multicultural community being able to integrate well into the mainstream Australian community and all these different communities contribution it is fair share in nation building.

As a Councillor I yearningly want to represent the local subcontinent community in Campbelltown LGA. I was first invited to join the party’s team for the Campbelltown City Council election 2016 and was elected as one of the fifteen councillors for a four year term,

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Clr Usha Dommaraju Camden Council (LIB) Usha is committed to women and children welfare in Australia. She has been part of varios organizations supporting active aging, children in need and helping fee homeless people around Sydney. She has dedicated prime years of her life serving the family and supporting community. Usha is recognised as a friendly and approachable person by family and other community members. She has been mar-

pharmaceutical industry in the marketing division. It’s now been over a few years since I called North Ryde and Australia home this is where I have built a career, set up home and am raising my children. I have been fortunate to be now able to contribute back to this wonderful City of Ryde.

Clr Shwetha Deshpande City of Ryde Council (LIB) I am a local mum with 2 primary aged kids living in North Ryde. I work in the

I believe to truly represent and celebrate our diversity we need true representation in our governing bodies. Our councils are the first place where decisions that impact on our liveability take place. The City of Ryde is a melting pot of different cultures. I would like to contribute to our beautiful City of Ryde by raising awareness on green spaces, building a family friendly city and a progressive

ried for 28 years and has raised 2 lovely kids advancing their careers on Engineering. She is a home maker and has continued to her husband manage their family business over 11 years. Her vision is “Vasudaiva Kutunbakam” which means the world is one big family. Her vision is to work in the public sector to reach larger community to help them overcome common issues. She is strong woman with the vision to empower the community and businesses to build a stronger nation.

liberal voice. Our team will make the City of Ryde a liveable, sustainable place to raise our families. This means taking action on over-development, raising the environment in our conversations and decisions making and managing tax payer rates which can only be achieved by a truly representative council. As per my first Notice of Motion that was unanimously accepted by council, improving the City of Ryde’s green canopy is a major win having 1300 trees starting from September. With the support of our current councillors, I wish to bring continued prosperity and harmony with state and federal governments.

Clr Noel D’Souza City of Randwick Council (IND) Cr Noel D’Souza has been the resident of Randwick city got 40 years and has worked in Matraville for 38 years as pharmacist. He has Close working relationships with the French and local Indigenous people. His key objective is a strong part-

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nership with the community, one based on shared values and a shared vision for building an even stronger Randwick Voting for The Independents is one of the most powerful things you can do to take action to save small business bring our community together in saving the planet, creating good government, and electing representatives who care about social justice, inclusiveness and equality.

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to the community and the economy. She has received multiple awards at local and State level for demonstrating excellence in leading social change and making significant contributions to the community.

Clr Sabrin Farooqui Cumberland City Council (ALP)

I am a passionate advocate for human right, social justice and cultural diversity. Born in Bangladesh I came to Australia as an international student to study Master of Arts in TESOL in UNSW, later completed PhD in Education from the University of Sydney. I have worked for private and public sectors, in higher education, research and policy and I am the Founding Member and the current President of Cultural Diversity Network Inc. (CDNI) that reaches out to refugees in settlement programs and to those who are vulnerable and in need, including women who suffer violence here and abroad. My vision is to facilitate a harmonious, multicultural Australia where all immigrants can be recognised as valuable contributors

and work closely with many community organisations which focus on and address issues faced by women. Helping local businesses and generating jobs is also on my list of goals to achieve in this term. New migrants from all over the world need our support and I am associated with CMRC in their various initiatives to make them feel at home.

Clr Reena Jethi The Hills Shire Council (LIB)

have been a teacher and a banker - two roles which brought me in close contact with the community. This experience also inspired me to join the public office and work with the local community. The first Indian born female elected to The Hills Shire Council, I am also the owner of a successful local business - Kuber Vaults. A proud Indian Australian who thrived on the opportunities for growth after moving to Australia over 20 years ago, I am passionate about enabling others to enjoy a good quality of life and grow in their careers.

I am Reena Jethi, a proud Indian Australian. Prior to my role as a councillor, I

As a councillor, I am committed to the cause of empowering women. I support

about 6 years with my wife and my son. My wife is working as a GP and My son studying in Year 7. I am a Mortgage Broker and like sports specially soccer and cricket. Communities can be better served by improving the capacity of local government. As the former Senator Fiona Nash said, - “local Governments are the lifeblood of their communities. My primary objective is to contribute to enhancing the erformance and efficiency of the local government of Campbelltown to serve the people better. Clr Masud Khalil Campbelltown City Council (IND) I have been living in Campbelltown for Download Our App

I would like to establish a smoother communication channel between the local community and the governing body through decentralized townhall and focus FEBRUARY I 2022

As a Local Government representative from Australian Labor Party, I will be supporting the local community and will be dealing with issues of their concern. The community has faced undeniable challenges for the last couple of years. These were challenges that were experienced by everyone very differently, especially in isolation. Now that the lockdown has come to an end and the state is re-opened, I believe that it’s time for us to start fresh as a safer and stronger community.

A big supporter of open spaces and public areas, I love every moment of my time in The Hills Shire with my lovely family. With your support, we will achieve our aim of making The Hills the best place for people to live, work and enjoy the outdoors.

group discussion forums and online and social media platforms. I would like to make sure people have easy access to the council, and they are more comfortable communicating with us and can get their jobs done without unnecessary delays. I want to ensure a proper plan and strategy for a clean and safe city and multicultural youth skill development program. We need to unite the diverse people with a more inclusive approach, improve and rehabilitate the Simmos Beach Reserve, protect our Koalas and facilitate investment opportunities to create employment. Working together we can make Campbelltown a benchmark of excellence. www.DesiAustralia.com

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values, attracted me to join ALP in the year 2014.Loved multiculturalism in the party which strengthens the social fabric and contribute to the strength of the Nation.

Clr Kushpinder Kaur City of Blacktown Council (ALP) Equality, women empowerment, employment opportunities, peoples party, labor

This wonderful country gave me great opportunities to show my skills and prosper. I brought with me Master of honours in Zoology with cytogenetics specialisation and in Master’s in Education from India and graduated in business Management, human resources and celibacy in Australia. I have demonstrated skills of Management, perseverance, counsellor, team player, problem solver, dependability, analytical and critical thinking. While in job I empowered many women to grow in their areas of work. I am a great team player with strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation skills which help me in

I was raised in Liverpool and I am a registered Occupational Therapist currently work for headspace (the National Youth Mental Health initiative) in south west Sydney, working to build awareness of and reduce stigma around mental health and well-being so that young people can access the help they need.

Clr Charishma Kaliyanda City of Liverpool Council (ALP) I was elected to Liverpool Council in 2016, becoming only the 11th woman elected to council in our 144 year history.

Liverpool is a key part of the fast growing south west corridor. This growth means that we have a huge number of people that want to live, locate their businesses or expand into Liverpool – so we must not lose these opportunities which represent the further pathways for our residents. However, as part of our COVID recovery, we must ensure that our existing residents and businesses are not left behind. So it’s not a matter of choosing one of the other, but how we can effectively manage both of these priorities.

Clr Sreeni Pillamarri Hornsby Council (LIB) Been in Australia for nearly 25 years and having lived in Cherrybrook, Hornsby Shire for over 10 years I have grown to understand and experience the many challenges we face in our communities. As a private citizen I have worked for many charities and causes and continue to do so. Moving forward, as a Councillor I will be a strong voice for the community, support local business, sports clubs, young families and protect and preserve our heritage and environment. As a local

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integrating with the community for providing efficient services. Council election 2021 was a great first-time experience and winning the title of being the first Punjabi Women in Australia entering the third tier of government an additional feather in the cap. I am thankful and indebted to the vibrant multicultural community of Ward 2 Blacktown Council for trusting me and electing me as councillor. Being a daughter of an army officer of values of integrity, discipline, honesty, loyalty, fairness are deeply inculcated and have contributed in the growth of my organisation and community. I will use all my expertise and skills for the benefit of our community.

Secondly, we need to ensure that our city is liveable and inclusive. Over the last 18 months we have seen just how important our community infrastructure is and how much our residents value local events and activities. Ensuring that our community facilities and parks and recreational spaces are not only fit for purpose, but that they are well maintained and accessible to everyone is vital. Finally, we know that access and sustainability are very important to Liverpool’s residents. We must ensure that our growth is accompanied by vital transport, health and social infrastructure. My vision for Liverpool is one where everyone can achieve their potential. I will focus on building on the work done so far to ensure Liverpool is a liveable, sustainable and inclusive city.

businessman, I believe in strong economic management, good governance and giving back to the community. I also believe in a cohesive, diverse and multicultural Australia and that this should be reflected in all levels of Government (Local, State & Federal). As a councillor I will work hard to preserve the character of our suburbs, especially the historic homes in Beecroft and Cheltenham and improve the traffic flow in trouble spots and support young families and kids with park facilities. I am appointed as a Justice of the Peace for NSW. I am married with two kids.

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my good community work. I have organised Food Drive for Food Bank Australia during pandemic. I am an active member of State Emergency Services SES and live in strathfield with my family, both my boys went to Strathfield south public school and my husband Karri Reddy is living in Strathfield from last 30 years.

Clr Sandy Reddy Strathfield Council (IND) I am popularly known as Sandy Reddy. I am the First Desi woman elected as Councilor in Strathfield LGA. I have been awarded as Strathfield Citizen of the year 2020 for

I have always been part of Strathfield and appreciated Strathfield as a safe suburb with best facilities, I always enjoyed being part of the local community and to contribute more to the community and reach out to more residence I decided to be part of the council. As a councilor I would like to tackle local

Suman was born in Khulna district in Bangladesh which is bordered by India to the west. He came here as International Student in 2003, completed his study in 2006 and

Cr Moninder Singh City of Blacktown Council (ALP) Alp Member for 15 years, VP of the quakers hill branch, In Council since 2016, • I was chair of youth advisory committee and cr Gillies is member, where we organized NSW youth conference in 2019, amongst many other youth activities Download Our App

Tree Management for local residences Better waste Management and improve cleaning services Recreation Centre in Strathfield Strathfield had 1166 Illegal Dumping reported last year, costing a lot of money in cleanups. I believe that every right comes with a responsibility and I want to do my best in serving the local community. I would like to thank everyone who have voted for me and supported me in the campaign.

became Australian Citizen in 2010.

maintain a decent living standard.

Suman was first elected as Wentworthville Ward Councillor on Cumberland Council in Sep 2017 and re-elected again in Dec 2021. He has a degree in Business (Accounting).

During the current term, he is ambitious to take council’s service delivery to the next level. He will pursue plans for a Council service centre at Wentworthville and advance Cumberland as a smart city. He likes to support the Cumberland community with a reasonable community grants program, community consultation and re-install the advisory committees. He will continue to safeguard our community assets and council services against privatisation. He will push to keep improving and beautifying our town centres across Wentworthville, Pendle Hill and Toongabbie. We want to plant more trees and expand green space. Our diverse community deserves Council’s encouragement and support.

He works as a Finance Manager for a major University.

Clr Suman Saha Cumberland City Council (ALP)

issues like

In the last term of Council (2017-2021) Suman applied his skills as an experienced accountant to become an insightful Councillor. He has fought hard against the privatisation agenda and argued tirelessly for Council’s budgetary priorities to be outwardly focussed and reflective of community need. With a young daughter, and a wife who also works outside the home, Suman is acutely aware of the pressures on young families in the area to • Member of Multicultural advisory committee, • Member of Sisters’ cities committee • Took trade delegation to INDIA in 2019 where I paid my own expenses • Started quakes hill festival and • Started Diwali lighting competition • Currently I am Chair of Access Advisory committee. Where we will lobby for equal opportunities for Disabled residents. In 2016, we had vision for transforming the city, with actual work done on the ground like • ACU already stated classes • Warwick Lane plaza and car park opened • ICTE (Centre for Sports Training Excellence) under way • new animal holding facility at Glendenning being constructed • BBSI (Blacktown Brain and Spine InstiFEBRUARY I 2022

tute) underway Going forward we Need to focus on Infrastructure in new area• Residents in Riverstone where big population Growth happening without matching infrastructure • Community is crying for road, footpath, parks for kids needed. Few residents don’t have driveway for nearly 1 year as the road id not built yet. Besides we will continue lobby with state government to deliver on their promises • -Schofields car park • Rouse hill hospital, cancelled 3 times • Heavy traffic in the town, we support local chamber with their lobbying • Widening of Riverstone Garfield RD, in planning stage but no plan for railway crossing, or bypass to the town • Metro rail extension to Marsden park Where Jobs are but people can’t reach there. www.DesiAustralia.com

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Clr Sharangan Maheswaran Strathfield Council (ALP) My parents are originally from the north of Sri Lanka but left due to the

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Bhadra WAIBA City Canterbury Bankstown Council (ALP)

I also worked in different positions of ALP branch.

I’m Bhadra WAIBA, migrated from Nepal. I have degree in Law and Nursing and been working as Register Nurse.

ALP nominated me to run for the council of ROSELAND ward in Canterbury-Bankstown Council and elected for three years.

I work in various local community organisations and I was awarded the NSW local Women of year for my services to community.

My team is planing to work in ensuring better local environment in term of cleanliness and safety.

Civil War. They found a new home in Brunei at first, and spent some time in Singapore. While life was comfortable for them there, they made the decision to come to Australia for one reason alone, which is the freedom and opportunity that would be afforded to their children in Australia. They absolutely made the right decision –Australians have an intuitive sense of fairness which is unique in this world.

focus on maritime law but I also have significant experience with environmental cases.

One of the things that makes Australia great is a robust social safety net. Most people believe that access to a decent education and healthcare are basic human rights, and it is this belief that led me to join the Labor movement and stand as a Labor candidate for Council. I am a practising lawyer – I principally

Any future growth will also need to reinvest in the environment and create local jobs. This is why I am advocating for the improvement of local river systems to increase water quality, create a safe environment for native birds and wildlife, and create more attractive green space for the community.

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Sustainable development is a core part of what I seek to do on Council. On Strathfield Council, I hope to give residents access to expertise (such as architects, urban designers and planners) so that they can properly express their vision for the future of the area.

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NSW Health Update

Getting COVID-19 can harm your baby. If you get COVID-19 while you are pregnant, your baby has an increased risk of stillbirth, being born premature and being admitted to intensive care. COVID-19 vaccines help protect your baby. The antibodies you develop from the vaccine may also provide your baby with some protection from COVID-19 in the first few months of their life. COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are safe in pregnancy. Get vaccinated today!

Keen to get your booster dose but can’t remember the date of your second dose? Your immunisation record or COVID-19 vaccination certificate has the date of your second vaccination dose. If you’re 16 years or older and had your second dose three or more months ago, you’re eligible for a booster. Booster doses will help protect you against COVID-19.

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TIME TO TRAVEL

February & March

EXPERIENCE NEW AIR INDIA Now under TATA group

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Desi Australia Monthly Magazine February 2022 edition

Articles inside

Some insights from the successful students from HSC 2021: A guide for HSC 2022

From prison cells to Sikh gurdwara: how officer uses faith to help others

Living with the new ‘ING’s - 2022

Australia Day 2022- Adelaide A day full of activities reflecting, respect and celebrating our diverse heritage

My Life, My Story Empowering Women through Storytelling & Exhibition at Blacktown

Felicitation of newly elected 22 Councillors from the Indian Sub continent back ground

Rekha Rajvanshi Receives UP Hindi Sansthan’s ‘Hindi Videsh