Local state member for Parramatta, Donna Davis MP, hosted an afternoon tea at neighbourhood venue PHIVE on Monday 24 November to celebrate the achievements of prominent, hard-working local community figures.
Among the guests were longstanding Parramatta Mosque president Ali Samad and general secretary Mahmoud Hussein.
During each Parliament sitting in New South Wales, MPs have the opportunity to acknowledge individuals and organisations through Community Recognition Statements, which highlight remarkable contributions to their respective electorates.
Donna Davis informed Mr Samad and Mr Hussein that their service had been officially recognised in a Community Recognition Statement in State Parliament, that will be preserved in Hansard.
“This acknowledgement reflects your many years of volunteer leadership at the Parramatta Mosque and your consistent commitment to the broader Parramatta community,” Ms Davis said.
Community heroes….Parramatta Mosque stalwarts Mahmoud Hussein and Ali Samad (together on far left of photo) are pictured with other Parramatta Community Recognition recipients.
Mr Hussein expressed gratitude for the recognition and commended Ms Davis for her ongoing engagement with faith communities, noting that she recognises Parramatta Mosque in Parliament whenever the opportunity arises, particularly around Eid ul‑Fitr and Eid al‑Adha.
“Brother Ali and I are delighted to receive this recognition, on behalf of all involved with Parramatta Mosque and our local community,” he said.
“We work very hard and that includes engaging with politicians at all levels of government for the benefit of the Mosque and our community.”
Mr Hussein added that the event at PHIVE was a reminder of how collaboration between civic leaders and community organisations strengthens local cohesion, enhances interfaith understanding and ensures vital grassroots perspectives are considered in decision‑making.
Local MP Donna Davis makes a point of recognising Parramatta Mosque in the NSW Parliament.
He paid tribute to the Parramatta Mosque committee and volunteers, whose quiet, regular contributions make the mosque a welcoming place of service, learning and connection.
For Parramatta Mosque, this formal recognition in Parliament is both a celebration and a challenge: to continue building on this spirit of partnership so that the city’s thriving, diverse communities can flourish together.
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