Meri Pehchan Pakistan celebrated its 11th annual Meri Pehchan Pakistan event in Sydney on Saturday 15 August 2026 marking Pakistan’s Independence Day, bringing together community leaders, elected representatives, families and young Australians of Pakistani heritage for a vibrant celebration of culture, identity, talent and community spirit.

The event highlighted the importance of keeping Pakistani culture, language, heritage and values alive among the younger generation while encouraging young people to actively contribute to Australia’s multicultural society.

The event was attended by Consul General of Pakistan Mr Qamar Zaman, Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Senator David Shoebridge, Deputy Mayor of Liverpool Peter Harley and Mr Zia Ahmed OAM, who joined the community in celebrating Pakistan’s Independence Day and recognising the achievements of young Australians.

 

Celebrating young voices and talent

A key focus of Meri Pehchan Pakistan has always been youth engagement and empowerment, and this year’s program featured several signature segments designed to give young people a platform to express themselves, demonstrate their knowledge and celebrate their Pakistani identity.

The Speech Competition provided young participants with an opportunity to research, reflect and confidently express their views on Pakistan and its future, encouraging public speaking, critical thinking and a deeper connection with the country’s history and identity.

The popular Quiz Competition tested participants’ knowledge of Pakistan’s history, culture, geography and achievements, creating an energetic and educational experience for children and families.

The Stars Spotlight segment provided a platform for emerging young performers to showcase their abilities before a live audience, while the highly anticipated Pakistani Youth Talent Awards recognised talented young Australians who have demonstrated excellence, achievement and potential across a range of fields. The awards were presented to the talented youth by Senator David Shoebridge and Mr Zia Ahmed OAM, recognising and celebrating the achievements of the next generation.

Through these initiatives, Meri Pehchan Pakistan continues to encourage young people not only to take pride in their heritage, but also to develop confidence, leadership, creativity and a strong sense of community.

Recognising longstanding support

The 2026 event also recognised individuals whose longstanding support has contributed to the success and sustainability of Meri Pehchan Pakistan.

Longstanding Support Awards were presented to Dr Khurram Kayani, Raja Taseer, Zafar Hussain Shah and Shafaq Jaffery in appreciation of their continued support and contribution to the initiative and the wider Pakistani community.

Special Longstanding Support Awards were also presented to Mr Faizan Farid and Ms Faiza Faizan, members of the Meri Pehchan Pakistan team, in recognition of their dedication, commitment and longstanding contribution to the organisation and its annual celebrations.

Meri Pehchan Pakistan acknowledged that an event of this scale and longevity is made possible through the commitment of supporters, sponsors, volunteers, team members, families and community members who continue to stand behind its vision.

Drama brings the celebration to a memorable close

The event concluded with the entertaining drama “Bachay Sab Hi Achay”, directed by Mr Javed Nazar. The production brought together humour, family values and an engaging storyline, and was warmly received by the audience.

The drama provided a memorable finale to a day dedicated to celebrating Pakistani culture, talent, family and community.

A celebration of heritage and Australia’s multicultural future

For 11 years, Meri Pehchan Pakistan has worked to create a meaningful platform where Pakistani-Australian families can celebrate their heritage while building stronger connections with the broader Australian community.

The 2026 celebration reinforced the organisation’s commitment to promoting a positive identity of Pakistan, nurturing the next generation and strengthening friendship and understanding between the Pakistani and Australian communities.

Speaking on the occasion, Meri Pehchan Pakistan President Syed Atif Faheem expressed his gratitude to the distinguished guests, participants, award recipients, sponsors, volunteers, parents and the entire organising team for making the 11th annual celebration a success.

He emphasised that the strength of Meri Pehchan Pakistan lies in its young participants and the opportunity it provides them to connect with their roots, develop their confidence and proudly contribute to multicultural Australia.

Meri Pehchan Pakistan Inc. remains committed to continuing this annual tradition and creating opportunities for the next generation to celebrate their heritage, showcase their talent and play a positive role in Australian society.
www.MeriPehchanPakistan.org