As the sun shone brightly over Sydney’s skyline, the Le Montage function room shimmered with elegance and vibrated with emotion on Sunday November 2025, where Western Grammar School community gathered for an afternoon that will forever remain etched in their hearts — the Year 12 Graduation of 2025.
From the moment the graduates entered the room, dressed with pride in their robes, caps and sashes, there was an air of gratitude and fulfilment.
It was more than a ceremony; it was a celebration of faith, resilience, and growth. The hall reflected a true celebration of their journey – the smiling faces of families and teachers who had walked alongside them every step of the way.
The formal program commenced with a heartfelt recitation of the Qur’an – verses of Surah Luqman, reminding us about our obligations, our duties and what it means to be steadfast in faith and righteous deeds.
As the program unfolded, the audience witnessed a reflection of the values that have defined WGS students – respect, resilience, and responsibility — shining through every speech, award, and heartfelt moment.
It was truly moving to see parents beam with pride, teachers exchange knowing glances and smiles, and students embrace one another, realising how far they had come.
The ceremony also honoured individual accomplishments – from the Most Improved to the best Behaved, from the Captains Awards to the Dux Award – recognising not only academic excellence but also character, perseverance, athleticism and leadership.
These awards spoke of determination and the quiet victories behind every challenge overcome.
The event included a number of speeches from student leaders, teachers and motivational speakers. Mr Irfan Afzal, Principal of WGS during his address congratulated students, teachers as well as parents in attaining this highly successful milestone.
Mr Irfan Afzal.
The Chairman of WGS Board, Mr Subhan Ali congratulated the year 12 cohort of graduating students and acknowledged the hard work by school staff and highly successful management of WGS by its Principal Mr Irfan Afzal supported by the members of the School Board.
“Alhamdulilah my entry into WGS governance since its inception was not accidental rather a blessing as Br Irfan stood with strong desires to serve the Islamic community in Sydney and I responded to his call to assist,” he said.
Mr Subhan Ali
He further added, “WGS has since grown from 7 students in 2012 to now over 380 students and with the current construction the number will reach close to 500 Inshaallah by end of 2026.”
Mr Ali gave three simple but important advice to the graduating students moving forward:
1. Hold firmly to your faith while stepping into a new world of opportunities but also many distractions.
2. Live with purpose in life while serving others.
3. Be grateful, keep growing and never stop learning.
This year’s Year 12 cohort has faced a world of change, challenges and adaptation, yet they have emerged stronger, wiser, and more grounded in their identity as young Muslims ready to contribute to society with sincerity and ihsaan.
Each student was presented with a special graduation gift – a Quran, plaque, and prayer mat – a symbol of our dua that they remain connected to Allah in every chapter of their journey ahead Inshallah.
As the afternoon drew to a close, laughter mixed with tears, photos and videos captured precious memories, and words of gratitude filled the air. It was an event that reminded us all why we do what we do – to nurture not just minds, but hearts.
This Years WGS graduation event was sponsored by a number of organisations including Salaam and Human Appeal Australia.
Comments