Celebrating Mothers, Confronting Violence, and Building Stronger Communities This May
I want to start this month’s article by wishing a very Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mums and mother-like figures in our community. Mother’s Day 2025, falling on Sunday, May 12, is a special time to honour the women who nurture, guide, and inspire us.
But for me and others, May is also a time of reflection—a moment to think about how we can extend that care and strength into our wider communities, creating spaces that are safer, more respectful, and supportive for everyone. May is also Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month. This year’s theme, “Take positive action today to build a safer Queensland,” really resonates with me and many others. I believe change starts with each of us. Whether we’re coaching sport, teaching, running a business, or simply looking out for a neighbour, we all play a part in creating inclusive and safe communities. There’s no excuse for domestic or family violence—and no excuse to be a bystander.
I was especially moved by a recent conversation with a reader of Brisbane India Times—a Fijian-Indian community leader—who raised a powerful concern. She asked why there’s so little data on how domestic and family violence impacts multicultural, Indian, and First Nations communities. Her question was simple but important: “How can we address an issue if we don’t know how widespread it is?” She also pointed out that many women, men and youth affected by domestic and family violence are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
As I explored her concerns, I discovered that while some state-based data exists, detailed national statistics—especially from the Australian Bureau of Statistics—are hard to find or simply not reported. Maybe it’s time to rethink how we collect and share this information. Perhaps we need to include more specific questions in our national census or push for targeted public research. Good data is key to creating culturally appropriate and effective support services.
On a brighter note, many of you have asked for updates on recent community events—and there’s been so much to celebrate! In April, I was one of many volunteers at Brisbane’s Holi Festival at the Mount Gravatt Showgrounds. It was a vibrant burst of colour, culture, and unity. Thousands came together to celebrate, followed by a beautiful thank you dinner. I want to send heartfelt thanks to President Manish Saini and the incredible Bondita and Mithun Chakraborty from Sargam Music Academy and their team for making the entire event unforgettable. It was also so much fun catching up and throwing colour with community favourites JD and Shanjeshni Deo—always a joy to be around.
Speaking of people who inspire me, I want to publicly thank and acknowledge someone I truly admire—community leader Aprit Singh. Aprit is not only a dear friend but a passionate advocate who’s been volunteering since 2015. He’s left a lasting mark on Queensland’s multicultural space. Just in the past year, he’s helped deliver GOPIO’s most successful Gala Dinner, led an inspiring Women’s Council event, coordinated Gandhi Jayanti, hosted a youth picnic, and created an unforgettable musical performance at India Day Fair. His dedication is inspiring, and I’m so happy to share that India Day Fair 2025 will be held on Sunday, August 17 at the beautiful Roma Street Parklands. I can’t wait to volunteer again and see you all there!
Another highlight for me this month was attending a fundraising Masquerade dinner in memory of the late Dr. Coung Bui. I was warmly welcomed by my friend Kheu Oanh Do, President of the Vietnamese Senior Citizens and Vietnamese in Australia – QLD Chapter. Kheu Oanh is a true trailblazer—the first Vietnamese woman to run for the seat of Inala—and her leadership continues to inspire across generations. Spending the evening with her and community advocate JD reminded me again how powerful it is when good people come together.
As one chapter closes, another begins. I’m thrilled to share that I’ve recently stepped into a new role as Public Relations Officer for Queensland Multicultural Council Inc. This opportunity allows me to keep doing what I love—amplifying diverse voices and building stronger cultural connections. A big thank you to Usha and team for your warm welcome and support. As a young person in the community, I’m genuinely excited for what’s ahead.
A lot of readers have also asked me about the environment—and it’s something I’ve been learning more about firsthand… through bees! While I’ve been studying and working towards my dream of becoming a doctor, I also took on a buzzing new challenge: beekeeping. Bees do so much more than make honey—they’re vital for pollination, our ecosystems, and our food supply. What began as a hobby has grown into a mission.
Special thanks to Kylie Gates for letting me run an info stall at her Easter Movie Night, and to Danny Blair from Aussie Home Loans Forest Lake and residents, who—alongside so many in the community—has been incredibly supportive. I’ve been learning how to protect wild bee populations, avoid harmful pesticides, plant bee-friendly flowers, and help restore natural habitats. If you’re curious, want to learn more, or even try some local honey—feel free to reach out to me at 0424 404 303!
Thank you to everyone who reached out and shared the issues that matter most to you. I look forward to next month’s article, where I’ll continue raising the voices and stories that make our community stronger.
