Celebrating Women, Community, and Leadership: A Month of Reflection and Action
Happy Holi and International Women’s Day! A heartfelt thank you to every woman and female caregiver for the important work you do. As someone raised by a single mum, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult life can be for so many in our community. She has worked tirelessly to ensure that I, and others around us, lead joyful, peaceful, and loving lives. I’m incredibly proud of her and all the women who make such a positive impact. Every woman has a unique journey, and every story is important and should be shared. We’re so fortunate to have so many intelligent, caring, and hardworking women from the Indian diaspora and all over the world, shaping our communities and paving the way for future generations.
This month, I had the privilege of spending time with some very special women in both my personal life and the community. I want to begin by acknowledging Shanjeshni Deo, who has been the heart and backbone of so many community projects. Her efforts have supported young people like me in reaching our full potential. I was an honour to join the Deo family at the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) Australia Day Celebration in Sunnybank. A special thank you to FICQ President Dr. Preethi Suraj, who made history as the first female president in the organization’s 26-year history. Her leadership and dedication to uniting, supporting, and inspiring the next generation of female leaders is truly remarkable.
I’m also lucky that Dr. Suraj lives in my neighbourhood. Recently, many people have expressed the desire for more representation from women, particularly those from Indian and multicultural backgrounds, in local, state, and federal government positions. There’s a growing call for leaders who reflect the diversity of communities in areas like Springfield, Inala, Oxley, and throughout Queensland. With the Federal Election approaching, many of us are hopeful to see more women from Indian and culturally diverse backgrounds stepping up to represent us. I loved the Hon. Shayne Neumann speech about the importance about cultural diversity, leadership and building relationships with India and Australia. My years of knowing the Honourable Federal Member for Ipswich, he has always supporting member of the Indian community and attended important event that promote preserving our mother language. He was very supportive of an Indian Candidate in Ipswich early last year. Neetu made history as the first female of Indian heritage to nominate for council. She is proud of her faith, her brown skin, her ability to speak more than one language and most of all her Indian heritage. For many, it’s a proud moment to see women like Neetu be the change the people want to see. She was not successful on this occasion, however, she has made her community proud and with her determination I hope to call her councillor one day, I wish her all the best.
It was also a pleasure to attend the 8th Anniversary Celebration of Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir, hosted by Usha Chandra and her husband Umesh Chandra. The event was truly special thanks to MC Umesh Chandra and the team of volunteers who worked hard to bring it all together. Many local leaders and elected officials attended, including Mayor Jon Raven, who spoke about the importance of unity and supporting multiculturalism. Senator Paul Scarr, affectionately known as the “People’s Senator, Logan Senator, and Multicultural Senator” also delivered a powerful speech on the value of supporting and uniting our community. His commitment to helping those in need—regardless of ethnicity, background, or location—is truly inspiring. I was honoured to volunteer at the Lions Club of Inala Citizenship Ceremony, where Senator Scarr personally presented certificates of appreciation to volunteers like me. His generosity has now donated to our Lions Club Backpack Project, which will help more children start school on equal footing and gives a child who needs a smile a much needed backpack.
The hot topic this month, is the upcoming federal election. I encourage everyone to read up on the policies and decisions that will affect you. Take the time to talk to candidates, ask them about their values, and find out what they’ve delivered for the community or individuals. While party politics can often dominate the conversation, remember that individual leaders can truly make a difference. This election will have a direct impact on young people, seniors, and families, so be sure your vote reflects your priorities. Please reach out if you would like to learn more. The surveys found that international relations, government decision, and economics is important. Next month, I will be focusing more on issues, like NDIS, Education, Migration, Health, international relations, the reserve bank and rise of interest rates and food (GDP) etc. Recently many people have been concerned about the rising cost of passports, changes made to immigration policies, and cost of living increasing, and workplace rights changes and taxs, and environment, and Domestic and Family Violence. Please reach out if there is a particular topic you are interested in.
This month, let’s continue celebrating the spirit of community by attending the Festival of Colours in Brisbane, hosted by Platinum Events Services Gold Coast on March 8, 2025. A big thank you to President Manish for ensuring we can come together and celebrate Holi—the Festival of Colours—which symbolizes love, the arrival of spring, and the triumph of good over evil.
Afterward, I invite you to join the Deo family at their International Women’s Day event at the Beenleigh Events Centre. For more details, feel free to reach out to the Australian Indian Times team or check out their Facebook page.
Next month, I’m excited to resume my community surveys. If you have any suggestions or feedback, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m truly grateful to everyone who continues to encourage me to write these columns. It means so much to know that I can make a difference in the community I love and consider family.
Be sure to say, hi next time you see me out and about in the community.
