The Queensland Fiji Football Association kicks off its 2025 season in style with the much-anticipated QCUP!
We’re beyond excited for what’s ahead, as QFFA stays true to its mission of connecting communities through the power of football—the beautiful game that brings us all together.
President Jitendra, when asked about the teams, shared that the ‘coconut wireless’ has it that all nine district-affiliated teams are training hard and primed for the challenge. Even better, we’re welcoming a wave of new talent eager to play under the QFFA banner for the first time. The competition is fierce, but as always, the real winner is the QFFA and the game of soccer itself.
And let’s not forget the essentials: the world-famous Fiji Ice Block, authentic Fiji-style BBQ, and mouthwatering Fijian delicacies will all be available to fuel the excitement!
Brisbane, it’s time to rally behind your QFFA and help us continue our mission to connect communities, inspire passion, and make every match unforgettable. Let’s make 2025 a season to remember.
For more information, reach out to our secretary at [email protected]
Rising Football Star Navneel Singh Shines on the International Stage
Brisbane’s young football sensation, Navneel Singh (Nav), is making waves on and off the field. At just 17 years old, Nav was one of two Queensland players selected to represent Australia’s under-17 team in the prestigious Iber Cup tournament in Portugal. Competing against football powerhouses from Europe and South America, Nav played every match, including the final, where Australia triumphed over Portugal in a thrilling penalty shootout to claim victory.
The tournament was a landmark achievement for Australia, highlighted by a remarkable 2-0 victory over Brazil in pool play. Nav’s exceptional performances on the international stage not only showcased his immense talent but also provided invaluable exposure for his bright football future.
Back home, Nav is no stranger to success. He plays for his club’s under-23 team, represents Brisbane Suva FC with distinction, and is a standout for both his school football team and the men’s Punjabi team. Despite his packed football schedule, Nav excels academically, consistently producing top-tier results, proving that he is as committed in the classroom as he is on the pitch.
Brisbane Suva FC President Lawrence Chand commended Nav’s achievements and future potential:”Nav’s journey so far is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, hard work, and exceptional talent have made him a role model for young players in our community. We are confident he will continue to achieve great things and, one day, fulfill his dream of becoming a Socceroo and representing Australia on the world stage.”
Brisbane Suva FC Premiers Captain Raj Aryan also praised the rising star:”Nav’s work ethic and performances speak for themselves. His achievements at such a young age are a testament to his drive and passion for football. He has a bright future ahead, and we’re proud to see him flourish.”
As Nav continues to refine his skills and balance his academic pursuits, his aspirations of donning the iconic Socceroos jersey seem closer than ever. The young footballer is poised to inspire a new generation of players, proving that with determination and discipline, dreams can indeed become reality.
The Brisbane Suva FC community, and indeed the entire football fraternity, wishes Nav all the best as he strives to achieve even greater heights in the beautiful game.
Questioner: Sadhguru, I am on spiritual path, Shouldn’t I still fulfill my needs and desires like food, sex, sleep?
Sadhguru: You are confusing basic requirements with dispensable desire. Food and sleep are basic requirements. You don’t desire them. When you are tired you sleep, when you are hungry you eat. These are required for your survival.
Discounting those two, let’s address the other desire that you mentioned: sexuality. Let’s look at it truthfully. Your desire is not for sex. One part of the fact is that your hormones have hijacked your intelligence. Another part is there is a lot of pleasure attached to sex. Yet another part is you are desperately trying to become one with somebody. But no matter how hard you try, sex does not work this way. You never become one with somebody by fusing your bodies. You will either realize this on your death bed, or you can realize it now and look for other ways that work.
Now, you may ask, “Oh, should I give this up?” There is no need to give up anything. As I said earlier, when you were a child, did you have some kind of a doll of your own? Let us say you had a teddy bear or a Barbie doll, or whatever, something that went all over the world with you. Now you had this teddy bear with you. At one point in your life this teddy bear was more important than your mother, your father, God, or all of them put together, yes? At a certain point in your life, at that time, suppose I had told you, “See, this teddy bear is just a bundle of cotton. What is the big deal? Let us throw this nonsense away.”
Would you have listened? No way. But as you grew up and gathered more exposure into the ways of the world other things interested you more than your childhood doll, so much so that you probably don’t even know where it is lying now! So something which was at one stage the most important possession in your life today stands disposed or missing and you don’t even care. Its absence means nothing to you.
This is the fate of desires. You hang on to certain teddy bears today because you don’t know anything better. If you taste something of a bigger dimension than you know right now, these insignificant dolls you have as desires will naturally fall off. And the best part is you don’t have to give them up, they naturally fall off. On the spiritual path, just sitting and breathing is by itself, a million times more amazing and captivating than anything else that you have known. Imagine just sitting here and breathing! Once you have known the pleasure of something higher will you settle for crumbles?
Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary and a New York Times bestselling author Sadhguru has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan by the Government of India in 2017, the highest annual civilian award, accorded for exceptional and distinguished service.
Dear reader, it is our joy to bring you the word of God. When we give something away or when someone takes what belongs to you, then it is possible to fall into a trap that you will be in lack. But in the book of proverbs, it says, “It is possible to give away and have more.” And if someone does not return what is yours, then instead of living frustrated, hurt, and angry, turn your thoughts around and say, “They did not take it from me, but I gave it away.”
This shows your trust is not in people who have taken from you but in God, who can add to you. The scriptures say, “God will restore everything you have lost.” This is a new day, a new season for you. This is the year when God will restore what has been taken from you. On your part, you must come to a place of peace with yourself. That means if something rightly belongs to you and is in the possession of someone else, and you know that it is not coming back to you, then release it, let it go, and say to yourself, “They didn’t take from me; I gave it away.” This will free you from any unnecessary frustration, worry, and pain.
In the Bible (Genesis 12 &13), God told Abraham to leave his country so He could give him a new nation and make him great, and all the families on earth would be blessed through him. Abraham obeyed God and left with Sarai, his wife, and his nephew Lot. Both Abraham and Lot had flocks, herds, and tents. Along the way, when their possessions became so great that they could no longer dwell together, thus Abraham said to Lot, “Please let there be no strife between you and me and let us separate. If you go left, I will go right, but if you go right, I will go left.” Lot looked at and saw Jordon’s plains and chose to go right. But Abraham remained with what was left.
Now, Abraham had the promise and had every right to choose what seemed best at the time. Yet he let Lot have the best part. We never read where Abraham felt upset with his nephew Lot’s choice. I can imagine Abraham saying to Lot, “You did not take the best part from me, but on the contrary, I gave it to you.”
Here are 3 things we can learn from Abraham and Lot.
1. God’s blessing on your life cannot be reduced by what someone has taken from you. After Lot left, God appeared to Abraham again, saying, “Lift your eyes and look east, west, north, and south. I give you and your descendants forever for all the land you see.” Like Abraham, life is full of unexpected events. Your journey to your destination is not always smooth sailing. Sometimes, you will have to give something away to keep the peace. But my encouragement to you is to keep on trusting God. He keeps the records, and His blessing over your life will come to you.
2. People may take it from your hand. But what belongs to you cannot be taken from the hand of God. Abraham remained blessed when Lot walked away with what looked like the best part of the deal. It was not from what was taken from Abraham but from what God had in store for him. Philippians 4v19 says, “My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Notice it doesn’t say according to the riches from people, but from God.
3. People do not hold your future; God does. Some people will only leave you if they can take something that belongs to you. God did not tell Abraham to take his nephew when he left his country. Along the way, there was strife between the herdsmen of Abraham and Lot. But when Lot left, after taking what seemed the best, God said to Abraham, “I give all these to you and your descendants.” It seemed like a tough time for Abraham. It didn’t seem fair, but it was the best way for Lot to move away from Abraham. By letting Lot have the best, Abraham received God’s best!
And all this is possible through a relationship with God through His Son Jesus. When you receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and your Saviour, you receive God’s best for your life. My encouragement to you today is that if someone has what belongs to you and you know it is not coming back to you, you can move on from that place of pain by declaring, “They did not take it from me, but I gave it away!”
Urdu Forum celebrates 5 years of free Urdu language classes
Urdu Forum is celebrating the 5th Anniversary of its Urdu Literacy Programme.
Urdu Forum, a not-for-profit incorporated association and a charity registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission, was formed with the express purpose of promoting Urdu language & literature, with a special emphasis on education.
With over 650 million native and second language speakers in the world, Urdu ranks 10th among the most widely languages spoken in the world. According to the 2021 census, there are 111,873 Urdu speakers in Australia and ranks 14th out of more than 300 languages spoken at home here.
Our Urdu Language classes were in response to a persistent demand from parents whose school going children were finding it difficult to communicate in Urdu. The classes also benefit those who can speak Urdu but are unable to read or write. As such, our courses are tailored to suit both adults and children. Our team of dedicated teachers have volunteered their services to provide personalised mentoring in a relaxed and friendly environment.
From humble beginnings in 2019, we have grown exponentially to accommodate younger students in three sections, commensurate with their linguistic proficiency, and a separate class for mature students. More that 170 students have so far benefitted from the programme.
In recognition of our efforts, Urdu Forum was awarded the coveted SBS APNA Education and Empowerment Award in 2024. The year also saw the introduction of Information Technology and online classes in our teaching modules.
Urdu Forum is the exclusive source of free Urdu language classes in Queensland. The classes are held every Sunday from 11AM to 1PM at the Acacia Ridge Hall, 13 Coley Street, Acacia Ridge QLD 4110. Registrations are now open. To enrol or for more information, please contact Ghazal Basit on 0412 076 864 or Naveed Kureshi on 0404 513 153, or email us at: [email protected]
Finding Purpose: A Journey to Personal Growth and Fulfillment
By Pushpa Vaghela CEO of The Women’s Mentoring Foundation (WMF), Managing Director AMS Synergy Group Real Estate & Co-Founder IndiaBiz Pioneers.
Life is filled with questions about meaning and direction. Many of us ponder how to align our actions with a sense of purpose, striving to grow as individuals and contribute positively to the world. Discovering and embracing your purpose isn’t about perfection or having all the answers but about understanding yourself, building connections, and taking intentional steps toward a fulfilling life.
Here are some ideas to guide you on your journey to finding purpose and achieving personal growth.
1. Reflect on Your Passions and Strengths
The things that excite and energise you often hold clues to your purpose. Think about the activities or topics that light you up, as well as the skills you naturally excel in. These are not just hobbies or talents; they are pieces of the puzzle that reveal what drives you.
For instance, if you love problem-solving and working with people, you might find purpose in roles where you can lead, mentor, or support others. Reflecting on your strengths and passions helps you recognise the unique contributions you can make.
2. Set Personal and Professional Goals
Purpose often becomes clearer when you create meaningful goals for yourself. Setting achievable targets, whether they’re related to career development, relationships, or personal achievements gives you a sense of direction.
Start by asking yourself:
What do I want to accomplish in the next year?
What legacy do I want to leave behind?
How can my daily actions align with my long-term vision?
Breaking larger aspirations into smaller, manageable steps helps you stay focused and motivated.
3. Seek Opportunities to Grow
Growth often happens when you step out of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself to try new things, learn new skills, or engage in activities that push your boundaries. Whether it’s enrolling in a course, traveling to a new place, or joining a group with shared interests, exposing yourself to diverse experiences broadens your perspective and can uncover new dimensions of your purpose.
Growth is not just about professional achievements; it’s also about becoming more empathetic, resilient, and self-aware.
4. Build Strong Relationships
Human connection is a vital part of finding purpose. Surrounding yourself with supportive and inspiring people fosters a sense of belonging and helps you grow emotionally and socially.
Engage in meaningful conversations, listen actively, and build relationships based on mutual respect and trust. Sharing your journey with others and learning from their experiences can provide valuable insights and encouragement.
5. Serve and Contribute
Giving back to others is one of the most fulfilling ways to find purpose. Whether through volunteer work, mentorship, or small acts of kindness, serving others enriches your life and strengthens your community.
Contributing to causes you care about creates a sense of meaning that extends beyond personal accomplishments. It reminds us that our actions, no matter how small, can make a positive difference in the world.
6. Practice Mindfulness and Self-Reflection
Amid the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose sight of your goals and values. Mindfulness—whether through meditation, journaling, or quiet reflection—helps you reconnect with what matters most.
Set aside time regularly to evaluate your progress, reassess your priorities, and acknowledge your achievements. This practice fosters clarity and keeps you aligned with your sense of purpose.
7. Be Open to Change
Purpose is not static. As you grow and encounter new experiences, your understanding of what fulfills you may evolve. Embrace change as an opportunity for discovery rather than a disruption.
Flexibility and adaptability allow you to navigate life’s uncertainties while staying true to your core values. Accepting that your journey will have twists and turns helps you maintain a positive and growth-oriented mindset.
By Pushpa Vaghela CEO of The Women’s Mentoring Foundation (WMF), Managing Director AMS Synergy Group Real Estate & Co-Founder IndiaBiz Pioneers.
Now that we are well into January, this is a gentle reminder to remain consistent in your wealth management practices and explore diverse ventures to create multiple income streams.
Managing Wealth: A Great Way to be consistent in 2025
As of February 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on financial strategies and goals. Managing wealth effectively is not just about earning; it’s about creating sustainable systems that allow for growth, security, and future opportunities. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a professional, or someone looking to get a stronger grip on your financial well-being, now is the time to prioritise strategies that align with your aspirations.
Wealth management is the cornerstone of personal and professional success. For business owners, it goes beyond profit margins—it’s about building systems that create value, ensure stability, and provide a solid foundation for expansion. In my own journey, the principles of wealth management have been pivotal in achieving milestones that once seemed distant.
Expanding Horizons: My Business Ventures in 2025
This year marks an exciting phase of growth for my business ventures. With a strong focus on expansion in the real estate sector, the foundation we laid over the past year has prepared us to soar to new heights. Real estate, known for its potential to create generational wealth, has been a key area of focus. Despite the challenges of entering a competitive market, our strategic approach and disciplined financial processes have positioned us for success.
In just a short span of time, the structures and foundations of this new venture have become stronger than I could have imagined. Through a combination of robust financial management, team building, and operational excellence, we’ve created a business that not only meets but exceeds market expectations.
The Pillars of Wealth Management
So, what drives this success? Effective wealth management rests on three key pillars: planning, investment, and diversification.
1. Planning for Success
Clear goals are essential to managing wealth effectively. Setting financial objectives allows you to allocate resources strategically and measure progress over time. For me, detailed planning is at the heart of every business decision. From budgeting to forecasting, having a roadmap ensures that resources are used wisely and aligns short-term actions with long-term vision.
2. Smart Investments
Investment decisions shape the future of any wealth management strategy. In my case, diversifying into real estate was a calculated move. Real estate offers dual benefits: immediate cash flow from rental properties and long-term appreciation of asset values. Strategic investments in the right locations and markets have allowed us to maximize returns while mitigating risks.
3. Diversification Across Ventures
Running multiple companies requires a careful balance of focus and flexibility. Diversification isn’t just about spreading financial investments; it’s about spreading operational risks. By expanding into different sectors while maintaining a clear vision for each, I’ve ensured that no single setback can destabilize the entire portfolio.
Building Strong Foundations
The strength of any business lies in its foundation. Over the years, I’ve worked tirelessly to create processes that ensure operational efficiency and financial stability. These systems allow me to manage multiple ventures without compromising the quality of output or the well-being of my team.
For example, our real estate expansion would not have been possible without a strong foundation of trust and transparency. From recruiting skilled professionals to establishing partnerships with clients and stakeholders, every aspect of the business is guided by principles of integrity and collaboration.
The Role of Technology
In today’s fast-paced world, technology plays a critical role in wealth management and business expansion. Automated tools for financial tracking, data analysis, and customer relationship management have allowed us to scale operations efficiently. Whether it’s managing cash flows, monitoring market trends, or enhancing customer engagement, technology has been an invaluable ally.
Lessons Learned
Looking back, the journey has been full of lessons. One of the most important is the value of resilience. The road to success is rarely linear, and challenges are inevitable. What matters is the ability to adapt, innovate, and stay focused on the bigger picture.
Another key lesson is the importance of team building. No business can thrive without a strong, motivated team. Investing in people—through training, mentorship, and support—has paid dividends not just in business performance but also in creating a positive, thriving work culture.
A Vision for the Future
As I continue to expand my ventures, the vision remains clear: to create value, inspire innovation, and lead with purpose. Managing wealth effectively is not just about accumulating assets; it’s about creating opportunities for growth and giving back to the community.
The year 2025 promises to be one of growth, resilience, and achievement. For those looking to start the year on the right foot, I encourage you to embrace the principles of wealth management. Set clear goals, make informed decisions, and never stop learning. With the right strategies in place, success is not just a possibility—it’s an inevitability.
To get my latest book that covers the Psychology and State required to become stronger leaders that create exponential wealth please do reach out.
Indian Medical Association of Australia, Queensland Branch (IMAQ)
The Indian Medical Association of Australia – Queensland Branch (IMAQ), established in 2017, is a dynamic and dedicated not-for-profit organisation registered under the QLD Associations Inc. Act (IA 57004). Based in Queensland, it serves as a vibrant community of doctors of Indian origin who proudly call Australia their home. We value and celebrate Australia’s multicultural society, which has embraced our members and allowed us to integrate fully into the healthcare system, making meaningful contributions across a range of specialties and sectors.
With a growing membership of over 600 professionals, IMAQ includes General Practitioners (GPs), specialists, junior doctors, and academics who actively contribute to advancing healthcare in both public and private sectors. Many of our members also hold esteemed academic positions at Queensland’s leading medical universities. This diverse and highly skilled group is unified by a shared commitment to excellence in healthcare, and we continuously strive to improve patient care and wellbeing across the community.
IMAQ’s work extends beyond healthcare provision into social responsibility. We have initiated and hosted significant community-based activities, such as Domestic Violence Symposiums and online health clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic. These initiatives highlight our unwavering commitment to both the professional development of our members and the welfare of the broader community. Our engagement has also included special projects, such as hosting teams for the World Games for Children with Intellectual Disabilities.
The IMAQ also maintains an active presence in the media, with a monthly health radio program, health-related articles in local Indian publications, and Continuing Medical Education meetings for our members. These initiatives foster both education and awareness within the Indian community and the broader Queensland population. Additionally, our close ties with prominent medical associations like the Australian Medical Association Queensland (AMAQ) and specialist professional colleges allow us to stay at the forefront of the healthcare industry and advocate for policies that benefit our members and patients alike.
Each year, IMAQ organizes Diwali celebrations, a key cultural event in the Indian community, which brings together our members and their families for a joyful celebration of the Festival of Lights. The most recent Diwali event was held on October 12th at Stamford Plaza Brisbane, showcasing IMAQ’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Indian cultural heritage while fostering unity among healthcare professionals.
Dr Cyril Fernandez – President of IMAQ
At the helm of IMAQ is Dr Cyril Fernandez, a highly respected General Practitioner (GP) with over 20 years of experience in the Australian medical system. Dr Fernandez is deeply committed to the health and wellbeing of his patients and the wider community. As President of IMAQ, he leads the organisation with a focus on enhancing the professional growth of doctors of Indian origin and supporting various healthcare initiatives in Queensland.
Dr Fernandez was born in Ernakulam, Kochi, Kerala, India, on April 18, 1959, and completed his medical education at Kottayam Government Medical College and BJ Medical College, Ahmedabad, India. He moved to Australia in 2003 with his wife and two daughters, establishing his practice at WISHART Medical Centre in Brisbane. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP) and has held numerous leadership and mentorship roles in the medical community. He has served as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Queensland and has been an examiner for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).
Dr Fernandez’s work extends beyond clinical practice. He is a committed mental health advocate and has been listed on Beyond Blue and the Black Dog Institute websites as a mental health care provider. His expertise also includes focused psychological strategies (FPS) and he regularly facilitates workshops for GPs, medical students, and GP registrars. He has played a pivotal role in the “AP KI SEHAT PROGRAM”—a program aimed at providing health and wellness advice, especially to the Indian community in Queensland, and has been a key voice in discussions on mental health, domestic violence, and other community welfare issues.
Dr Fernandez’s leadership extends to his role as a Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME) for CASA, where he conducts medical assessments for pilots and air traffic controllers. He is also actively involved in health services for coal mine and MMQ workers. His contributions to the Indian medical community have not gone unnoticed, as he was named a nominee in the Courier Mail Queensland Indian Power List for 2024.
Dr Fernandez’s leadership, compassion, and dedication to improving healthcare for all communities in Queensland have shaped IMAQ into a dynamic and influential force in the healthcare landscape.
Contact Information for IMAQ:
Indian Medical Association of Australia – Queensland Chapter
101/149 Wickham Terrace, Spring Hill QLD 4000
Phone: +61 404 433 044
Email: [email protected]
Finally, Dr Cyril Fernandez and his team continue to make invaluable contributions to healthcare and the community through IMAQ, promoting the values of excellence, multiculturalism, and compassion in every aspect of their work.
75 years of Bharat Constitution on 26th January 2025
Nearly 1.5 billion Bharatvasis and Bharatvanshis (Indians and Overseas Indians) celebrated a cherished milestone marking 75 years of adoption of the Constitution of India making it a sovereign, democratic, socialist and secular republic. The Sun shone brightly, without fog on a clear blue sky day in the Indian capital of New Delhi on 26th January 2025 as President of India Mrs. Draupadi Murmu, also the Commander in Chief of Indian armed forces, took the salute on Kartavya Path in the heart of the capital. She was joined by Chief Guest Mr. Prabowo Subianto, President of the Republic of Indonesia, Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankar, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, the entire Cabinet of Ministers, Armed Forces Chiefs, Ambassadors and High Commissioners in India, dignitaries, thousands of public and especially the youth. Besides showcasing India’s military might, the focus was on stellar achievements India has made towards inclusive growth, development and prosperity, especially focusing on youth, children, women, tribal and undeserved population. Whilst traditionally the Republic Day is a grand display of the country’s rising armada to secure its sanctity and peace, each passing year has focused on technological, social and economic upliftment of masses that make the world’s most populous country. India today boasts of the fastest growing economy and occupying perhaps the most geo-strategic position in a dramatically changing world of challenges. Watch an incredible celebration of the marvel that Bharat continues to become. Most interesting, at the very end, a world record-breaking choreographed performance by 5,000 people of India of all ages, liks, religions and regions of India, depicts a unique tapestry of unity in diversity and the future of Bharat. Happy Republic Day of India, Jai Bharat!
21L tourists visited state’s heritage sites in 2023-24: Govt
The state government said on Sunday that 21 lakh tourists visited Gujarat’s heritage sites in 2023–2024—despite the fact that World Heritage Week is being commemorated from November 19 to 25. The government further stated that projects totaling Rs 428 crore are being carried out to improve visitor amenities at several historical locations throughout the state. Every year, from November 19 to 25, Unesco observes World assets Week to increase awareness of the value of protecting historical and cultural assets. World Heritage Week’s theme this year is “Discover and Experiencing Diversity.” The state tourist agency provided the information, stating that Vadnagar and Dholavira are developing amenities valued at Rs 255 crore. The Gujarat government has placed a lot of emphasis on Vadnagar, a historical landmark and the birthplace of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Indian Medical Association of Australia – Queensland Branch (IMAQ), established in 2017, is a dynamic and dedicated not-for-profit organisation registered under the QLD Associations Inc. Act (IA 57004). Based in Queensland, it serves as a vibrant community of doctors of Indian origin who proudly call Australia their home. We value and celebrate Australia’s multicultural society, which has embraced our members and allowed us to integrate fully into the healthcare system, making meaningful contributions across a range of specialties and sectors.
