Reflections for October: Community, Culture, and Mental Health
Written by Xavier Hernandez
Welcome to my October article for the Brisbane Indian Times. As we enter a busy month, there’s already so much happening around us. The school holidays are coming to an end, and many of us, myself included, are settling back into the school routine. Whether you’re a student planning for the year ahead or a reader getting your home ready for the approaching storm season, I’ve crafted this article based on your valuable feedback to address some important topics.
I begin by highlighting the importance of love, peace, and hope. There has been so much tragedy in the world, and I encourage readers to welcome free and safe debate while also thinking of those less fortunate. Take, for example, the recent tragedy in southern India on September 28, where a crowd crush at a political rally tragically claimed 36 lives, including eight children. Such heartbreaking events remind us of the fragility of life and the importance of compassion. Our mental health has never been more critical.
Mental Health Week is taking place from October 4–12. This week reminds us that seeking help during difficult times is a sign of strength, not weakness. I’ve witnessed firsthand how division, bullying, and negativity can deeply affect people of all ages. This month, I encourage you to focus on your mental wellbeing and practice positive thinking. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. As Dita Von Teese wisely said, “You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there’s still going to be someone who hates peaches.” This serves as a reminder that no matter how much we try to please others, challenges will always arise. However, our mental health remains within our control.
Data shows that between 2020 and 2022, nearly a quarter of Queenslanders aged 16 to 85 experienced a mental health disorder, with anxiety being the most common. While I couldn’t find specific data on migrant communities, we know that the stresses of pre-migration trauma, combined with the challenges of settling into a new country, make mental health even more difficult to navigate. Mental health is a universal concern, and it’s vital that we continue raising awareness and ensuring that support systems are accessible to everyone who needs them.
October is also Seniors Month, a time to reflect on and honour the invaluable contributions of older members of our community. If you know a senior, take a moment this month to thank them for their wisdom and guidance. Many seniors may be struggling financially, physically, and emotionally. Local councils also offer great initiatives for seniors, such as Brisbane City Council’s Council Cabs program and events. For more information, check with your local council—they may also provide resources to help prepare for the storm season.
On a more festive note, I had the pleasure of attending and volunteering at the Greater Springfield Dandiya event at Robelle Domain Park. The energy was contagious as people of all ages, community leaders, and MPs like Hon. Shaynne Neumann attended. It was a fun night of dance, celebration, and an immersive experience in our community’s rich traditions. It was a reminder of how shared traditions can unite us, regardless of our backgrounds. A special thank you to Mukesh Dubey and the Deo family for promoting culture and breaking barriers for the multicultural communities and especially the youth. I can’t thank him enough for his kind words and how he’s inspiring the next generation of leaders with a smile.
On October 1st, I had the privilege of speaking at the Brisbane 100: One City Together event, marking the century of Greater Brisbane’s formation. It was a moment to reflect on the rich history of our city and the diversity that makes Brisbane such a special place to call home. I also want to thank Bob Pillay for inviting me to the launch of his book Dynamic Business Principles. It was a fantastic evening of learning and networking, offering valuable insights into the aerospace and defence industries.
In addition, exciting multicultural news, I would like to congratulate Kheu Oanh Do as the incoming President of the Vietnamese Community in Australia – Queensland Chapter. Her journey to Australia was not an easy one, but now she is an inspiration to many, especially in Inala. She is a community leader who volunteers her time with the Vietnamese senior citizens, support the youth, and broader community. Now she will lead the Vietnamese community with love, compassion, and with her own leadership style still honouring the late Dr. Bui.
She has broken many barriers with having run as a Vietnamese woman candidate in the seat of Inala at the last election. A multicultural seat where there is a high population of Vietnamese residents. Feeling so many with hope and joy. She is smart, hardworking, and deeply understands the community where she lives and is deeply connected too. She is a true representation of a diverse and hardworking area. I’m proud to see someone I look up to achieve such a remarkable role.
It is wonderful that so many readers are providing me with such valuable feedback. I look forward to chatting more about our great paper with you next time I see you out and about in the community, listening to what matters to you most.
