Photo: Imam Mogamat Majidih Essa from the Royal Australian Navy does the Maghreb adhan, indicating the time for Muslims to break their fasts.
The NSW Parliament hosted nearly 300 distinguished community leaders, dignitaries, and guests on Wednesday 5 March 2025, the gathering in the spirit of mutual respect and understanding for Affinity’s 16th annual NSW Parliament Friendship & Dialogue Iftar Dinner.
This event has become a fixture in Australia’s interfaith and intercultural calendar for a long time and continuing.
The evening’s theme, inspired by a powerful quote from the great Sufi poet Rumi, was: “True understanding does not arise from speaking the same language, but from opening our hearts to one another.”
As Ramadan began, the theme set the tone for a celebration of unity, reflection, and connection in a multicultural society.
Simon Marnie, the iconic Australian broadcaster, served as the evening’s MC. He warmly greeted attendees and invited them to share in the evening’s reflections. He also marked Affinity’s 25th anniversary this year.
The evening began with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country and a captivating didgeridoo performance by Rycka Satrick, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural teacher, didgeridoo virtuoso, and dancer. His performance left a lasting impression, celebrating cultural richness.
The first welcoming address came from The Honourable Steve Kamper MP, Minister for Multiculturalism who highlighted the importance of promoting multiculturalism and dialogue in the society.
The Honourable Mark Coure MP, Member for Oatley and Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, reminded the audience of their collective responsibility to protect Australia’s multicultural fabric.
Ahmet Polat, the Executive Director of Affinity Intercultural Foundation was introduced by Simon Marnie as a “cousin to us all,” reflecting his deep connection with those in the intercultural dialogue field.
With over three decades of service, Polat has played a pivotal role in fostering understanding between communities in Australia in general and Sydney in particular.
The evening also included a tribute to the event’s contributors, acknowledging those whose support made the gathering possible. As guests prepared for the Iftar meal, tokens of appreciation were presented.
Mehar Ahmad, President of Seena Inc and a respected community leader and educator, delivered an insightful reflection on the Meaning of Ramadan. Her words resonated deeply, emphasising themes of spiritual growth, self-discipline, and community solidarity.
The evening reached its spiritual peak with the adhan for Maghreb Prayer and the time the break the fast by Imam Mogamat Majidih Essa from the Royal Australian Navy. Bilal Kilic, a highly accomplished religion and values teacher at Amity College, followed with a Qur’an recitation.
As guests enjoyed the Iftar meal, a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect filled the room. The lights and lamps that adorned the space symbolised the multicultural society celebrated that night.
The keynote address came from Hugh de Kretser, the newly appointed President of the Australian Human Rights Commission. He shared his perspectives on human rights in Australia, calling for action to create a more just and inclusive society.
A special video tribute honored Fethullah Gülen, an Islamic scholar whose legacy continues to inspire Affinity’s work in promoting peaceful dialogue.
Simon Marnie and veteran ABC broadcaster John Cleary then discussed various topics, including human rights and social justice.
The evening’s cultural richness was showcased by Farhan Shah & Sufi Oz, a group from Adelaide who mesmerised the audience with their fusion of traditional Sufi qawwali music and modern influences, celebrating diversity through music.
A poignant moment came when Martha Jabour OAM, the 2025 NSW Australian Local Hero, was introduced as the guest of honour. Her inspiring journey highlighted the power of resilience and compassion, motivating all who work towards healing and reconciliation.
Violet Roumeliotis AM, CEO of Settlement Services International, concluded the evening with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks reflecting on the power of community and the importance of continued dialogue in building a more inclusive and compassionate society.
The event reminded all attendees of the need for unity in a diverse world. Through inspiring speeches, performances, and the shared Iftar meal, Affinity’s Annual Friendship & Dialogue Iftar Dinner highlighted the importance of fostering understanding, respect, and dialogue across cultures and faiths in Australia and beyond.
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